Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

The Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 are both excellent options for off-road motorcycles.

Starting with the technical specifications, the Pan America 1250 Special is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 1252cc, producing a powerful 151.98 HP and 128 Nm of torque. It features a chain transmission and has a 2-cylinder configuration. On the other hand, the Africa Twin is powered by an inline twin engine with a displacement of 1084cc, generating 102 HP and 105 Nm of torque. It also has a chain transmission and a 2-cylinder configuration.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature a telescopic fork front suspension with adjustable compression, preload, and rebound. However, the Pan America has a fork diameter of 47mm and a travel of 191mm, while the Africa Twin has a slightly smaller fork diameter of 45mm but a longer travel of 230mm. For the rear suspension, both bikes have a swingarm with a monoshock and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound. The Pan America and Africa Twin have a rear suspension travel of 191mm and 220mm, respectively.

When it comes to the chassis, the Pan America has an aluminum frame with a double cradle type, offering a rake of 65 degrees and a trail of 157mm. On the other hand, the Africa Twin has a steel frame with a double cradle type, providing a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with dual disc front brakes.

Moving on to the advanced rider assistance systems, both bikes come with ABS, traction control, and multiple riding modes. The Pan America also features electronically adjustable suspension, cruise control, and cornering ABS, while the Africa Twin offers additional features such as anti-wheelie control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Pan America has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1585mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a curb weight (with ABS) of 258kg. The fuel tank capacity is 21.2 liters, providing a range of 432km. The Pan America has a combined fuel consumption of 4.9 l/100km. On the other hand, the Africa Twin has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1574mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a curb weight (with ABS) of 226kg. The fuel tank capacity is 18.8 liters, providing a range of 383km. The Africa Twin also has a combined fuel consumption of 4.9 l/100km.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The Pan America also offers additional features such as heated grips, cornering lights, and adjustable windshield.

In terms of strengths, the Pan America stands out for its powerful engine, comfortable seating position, complete electronics, distinctive appearance, and standard cornering ABS and traction control. It also offers an optional lowered seat for easier maneuverability when stopped. On the other hand, the Africa Twin excels in its powerful engine, sophisticated rider assistance systems, smooth operation of the optional DCT, color touchscreen display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and off-road-friendly windshield.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Pan America has partially below-average finish and tactile feel, an additional cost for the gear lever, and a windshield that may be too high for off-road use. On the other hand, the Africa Twin has a less intuitive electronic system operation, less robust handguards for off-road use, a windshield that provides reasonable protection, and less ideal ergonomics for standing riding.

In conclusion, both the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 are impressive off-road motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. Riders should consider their preferences and priorities to choose the one that best suits their needs and riding style.