KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

The KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 are both powerful and capable adventure motorcycles. However, they have some notable differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017, it features a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1050cc, producing 125 horsepower and 109 Nm of torque. The engine is known for its sporty performance and offers practical road and off-road modes that provide excellent traction control and maximum power. It has a robust chassis made of chromium-molybdenum, which is suitable for off-road riding. The suspension system consists of a telescopic upside-down fork at the front and a swingarm with a monoshock at the rear, both provided by WP. The bike has a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel. It weighs 230 kg (with ABS) and has a seat height of 890 mm. The KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, and traction control. It also comes with adjustable windscreen for added convenience.

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 is equipped with an inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc, producing 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. The engine offers a linear torque curve and a smooth response. The bike features a steel frame with a twin-spar design, providing excellent mechanical and electronic chassis performance. The suspension system consists of a telescopic upside-down fork at the front, provided by Showa, and a swingarm with a monoshock at the rear, also provided by Showa. The bike has a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel. It weighs 238 kg (with ABS) and has a seat height of 850 mm. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ABS for curves, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It also features Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 is praised for its powerful and sporty engine, as well as its practical road and off-road modes that provide excellent traction control and maximum power. The bike also has a robust chassis suitable for off-road riding and offers a wide range of accessories and equipment from KTM.

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 is praised for its excellent chassis, both mechanically and electronically. The option of having a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) makes it a superior touring motorcycle. It also offers practical and high-quality electronic rider assistance systems, good wind protection, and an overall impression of high quality. The engine is also highly regarded for its smooth response and linear torque curve. The bike is known for its accessible handling and enjoyable riding experience. It is also considered to be a wonderfully versatile motorcycle.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 has a high seat height, which may be an issue for riders with a shorter stature. The engine's sporty response may not be ideal for long-distance rides, and the bike can feel sluggish at low speeds.

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 has been criticized for its excessive wind protection, which can be too much in hot weather, even with the windscreen in the lowest position. The operation of the numerous switches on the bike can be complex, even after a few days of testing. Some riders also find the seat to be too soft after a long day of riding.

In conclusion, the KTM 1090 Adventure R 2017 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 are both capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM offers a powerful and sporty engine, while the Honda provides a smooth and versatile riding experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.