Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 are both enduro motorcycles with similar features and capabilities. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine specifications, the Honda Africa Twin has a slightly smaller displacement of 1084cc compared to the Suzuki V-Strom's 1037cc engine. However, the Africa Twin has a higher engine power of 102 HP compared to the V-Strom's 107 HP. The Africa Twin also has a higher torque of 105 Nm compared to the V-Strom's 100 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, the Africa Twin features a Showa upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. On the other hand, the V-Strom has a Kayaba upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 43mm and a travel of 160mm. The rear suspension is also a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 160mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

In terms of chassis, the Africa Twin has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the V-Strom has an aluminum frame with a twin tube design. The Africa Twin has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm, while the V-Strom has a rake of 64.7 degrees and a trail of 109mm.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front, but the Africa Twin offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The V-Strom, on the other hand, only offers ABS and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Africa Twin has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches, while the V-Strom has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. Both motorcycles have a rear tire width of 150mm. The Africa Twin has a wheelbase of 1575mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a kerb weight (with ABS) of 226kg. The V-Strom has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1555mm, the same seat height of 850mm, and a higher kerb weight (with ABS) of 247kg. The V-Strom also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters compared to the Africa Twin's 18.8 liters.

Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin has a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional), a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It also has a windshield that is perfect for off-roading. On the other hand, the V-Strom has a powerful engine, wonderful ergonomics, good wind and weather protection, extensive accessories as standard, good initial tire equipment, long-distance capability, and a successful retro look.

In terms of weaknesses, the Africa Twin has a flood of buttons on the left handlebar that may not be very clear, handguards that are not very robust for off-road use, and a windshield that offers manageable protection. The V-Strom, on the other hand, has a high weight, ABS that cannot be switched off, and no quickshifter.

Overall, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT 2020 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.