BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 are both popular adventure motorcycles with their own unique features and capabilities.

Starting with the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021, it is equipped with a Boxer engine and shaft drive. The engine has a displacement of 1254cc and produces a power output of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. It features a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37mm and a travel of 210mm. The rear suspension is a single swingarm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. The frame is made of steel and has a rake of 65.1 degrees. The front brakes are dual disc and the bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, traction control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ABS for curves, and cruise control. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure has a 19-inch front tire, a 17-inch rear tire, a wheelbase of 1504mm, and a seat height ranging from 890mm to 910mm. It has a curb weight of 268kg and a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. Additional features include cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, heated seat, TFT display, and adjustable windshield.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 is equipped with an inline engine and chain drive. The engine has a displacement of 1084cc and produces a power output of 102 HP and a torque of 105 Nm. It features a telescopic upside-down front suspension with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension is a swingarm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. The frame is made of steel and has a double cradle design. The front brakes are dual disc and the bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ABS for curves, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie control. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT has a 21-inch front tire, an 18-inch rear tire, a wheelbase of 1575mm, and a seat height ranging from 850mm to 870mm. It has a curb weight of 248kg and a fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters. Additional features include LED headlights.

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 offers practical details for frequent users, a large fuel capacity for great autonomy, incredibly low fuel consumption, good wind and weather protection, comfortable riding experience, powerful engine, excellent connectivity application, easy-to-read TFT display, comfortable seating position for both rider and passenger, practical riding aids, large headlights, great ergonomics for tall people, and easy handling.

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 offers a powerful engine, a semi-active chassis with fantastic performance, sophisticated electronic riding aids, a color touchscreen display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and almost "too good" wind protection.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 has a high weight during maneuvers, somewhat stiff gear changes at low revs, and a somewhat bulky appearance. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a confusing amount of buttons on the left handlebar, a heavy weight, and a higher price, although it may be justified.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2021 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 are both capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers practicality, comfort, and a powerful engine, while the Honda offers a sophisticated chassis, advanced electronic aids, and good wind protection. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.