KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 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 1290 Super Adventure S 2021, it features a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301cc, producing 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. The engine is known for its sporty yet refined performance. It has an electric start and a chain transmission. 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 chrome-molybdenum frame and a rake angle of 65.3 degrees. The front brakes are dual disc, and the bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, ABS for curves, cruise control, and traction control. It has a 19-inch front tire, a 170mm wide rear tire, and a 17-inch rear tire. The seat height ranges from 849mm to 869mm, and the bike weighs 243kg with ABS. It also comes with features like cornering lights, LED headlights, a TFT screen, and an adjustable windscreen.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 is equipped with an inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc, producing 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. The engine provides ample power for off-road adventures. It also has an electric start and a chain transmission. 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 Showa. The bike has a steel frame and a rake angle of 62.5 degrees. The front brakes are dual disc. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ABS for curves, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It has a 21-inch front tire, a 150mm wide rear tire, and an 18-inch rear tire. The seat height ranges from 850mm to 870mm, and the bike weighs 248kg with ABS. It features LED headlights.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 offers a very sporty yet accessible V2 powertrain, comfortable riding position, good brakes with ABS for curves, a comprehensive electronic package, and a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a large 7-inch screen.

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

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a somewhat slow turning behavior in corners and opaque packaging design and pricing policy. The quality of the instrument panels and switches also seems to be lacking. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a confusing array of buttons on the left handlebar, a heavy weight, and a relatively high price, although it may be justified.

In conclusion, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 are both impressive adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The KTM offers a more sporty and refined performance, while the Honda provides a powerful engine and an excellent chassis. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.