Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports model year 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin model year 2023 have several similarities in terms of their technical specifications. Both models have an inline engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 81.5 mm. They also have the same power output of 102 HP and torque of 105 Nm. The starting mechanism is electric for both models, and they both have a chain transmission. Additionally, they have the same number of cylinders and displacement of 1084 cc.

In terms of suspension, both models feature a telescopic upside-down fork at the front with a diameter of 45 mm and a travel of 230 mm. The suspension is adjustable for compression, preload, and recovery. At the rear, they both have a swingarm suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. The rear suspension is also adjustable for compression, preload, and recovery. The chassis for both models is made of steel and has a double cradle frame with a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113 mm.

Both models have dual-disc front brakes and come equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ABS for curves, ride-by-wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The front tire diameter is 21 inches for both models, while the rear tire width is 150 mm and the diameter is 18 inches. The wheelbase is slightly different, with the Adventure Sports model having a wheelbase of 1575 mm and the standard Africa Twin model having a wheelbase of 1574 mm.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

In terms of dimensions and weights, both models have an identical seat height of 850 mm, with the option to adjust it up to 870 mm. The Adventure Sports model weighs slightly more at 238 kg (with ABS) compared to the standard Africa Twin model, which weighs 226 kg (with ABS). The fuel tank capacity is also different, with the Adventure Sports model having a larger capacity of 24.8 liters compared to the standard Africa Twin model's 18.8 liters. The range is also higher for the Adventure Sports model at 506 km compared to the standard Africa Twin model's 383 km. The combined fuel consumption is the same for both models at 4.9 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, both models come with Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT screen. The Adventure Sports model of the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has additional features such as better wind protection and a more versatile overall design.

In terms of strengths, the Adventure Sports model of the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has a very good chassis, both mechanically and electronically. The option for a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) makes it a superior touring bike. The electronic rider aids are practical and of high quality. The wind protection is fundamentally good, and the overall impression is of high quality. The engine has excellent response and a linear torque curve, and the handling is accessible and enjoyable. Overall, it is a wonderfully versatile motorcycle.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

The strengths of the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 include a powerful engine, sophisticated electronic rider aids, smooth operation of the DCT (if chosen), a color touchscreen, good ergonomics, and the ability to cover long distances. The off-road windshield provides decent protection.

On the other hand, the Adventure Sports model of the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has some weaknesses. The wind protection is too good in hot weather, and even the lowest position of the windshield hardly allows any wind to pass through. The operation through the numerous switches may seem complex, even after two days of testing, and the seat may feel too soft after a long day of riding.

The weaknesses of the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 include a not very clear and intuitive electronic operating concept, less robust handguards for off-road use, a windshield that offers reasonable protection, and less than ideal ergonomics for standing up while riding off-road.