Triumph Tiger 800 XRT 2018 vs. Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

The Triumph Tiger 800 XRT 2018 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 are both popular models in the adventure motorcycle segment. While they have some similarities in terms of engine type, transmission, and suspension, they also have some key differences that set them apart.

In terms of engine specifications, both models have inline engines with chain drive. The Tiger 800 XRT has a 3-cylinder engine with a displacement of 799cc, producing 95 horsepower and 79 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Africa Twin has a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 998cc, also producing 95 horsepower but with a higher torque of 98 Nm. This means that the Africa Twin may have a slight advantage in terms of power and torque.

When it comes to suspension, both models feature a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The Tiger 800 XRT is equipped with Showa suspension that offers adjustments for compression and recovery. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, also has Showa suspension but with additional adjustments for preload. This means that the Africa Twin may provide a more customizable suspension setup for riders.

Triumph Tiger 800 XRT 2018

In terms of chassis, both models have a steel frame, which provides durability and stability. This ensures that both bikes can handle off-road conditions effectively.

When it comes to braking, the Tiger 800 XRT is equipped with Brembo brakes, while the Africa Twin has Nissin brakes. Both models have dual disc brakes at the front, ensuring reliable stopping power.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both models have ABS and traction control. However, the Tiger 800 XRT also offers five different riding modes, allowing riders to customize the bike's performance to suit their preferences and riding conditions. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, does not have riding modes but offers optional DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) for smoother gear shifting.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Africa Twin has a slightly larger wheel size with a 21-inch front tire and an 18-inch rear tire, compared to the Tiger 800 XRT's 19-inch front tire and 17-inch rear tire. The Africa Twin also has a longer wheelbase of 1575mm, compared to the Tiger 800 XRT's 1530mm. Additionally, the Africa Twin has a higher seat height, ranging from 850mm to 870mm, compared to the Tiger 800 XRT's 810mm to 830mm. However, the Tiger 800 XRT is slightly lighter with a dry weight of 202kg, compared to the Africa Twin's 212kg.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

In terms of strengths, the Tiger 800 XRT offers a powerful engine, easy handling, a complete comfort equipment package, a pleasant seating position, five different riding modes, and switchable traction control and ABS. On the other hand, the Africa Twin is known for its reliable engine, comfortable seating position, well-tuned chassis, good looks, good brakes, optional DCT, and performance modes.

However, both models have some weaknesses. The Tiger 800 XRT has a TFT color screen that is not optimized in terms of anti-glare, and it may have limited space for leaning. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, has poor wind protection, lacks cruise control, and the ABS on the front wheel cannot be deactivated.

In conclusion, the Triumph Tiger 800 XRT 2018 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 are both capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. Riders should consider their specific needs and preferences to determine which model would be the best fit for them.