BMW R 1200 GS 2017 vs. Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018

The BMW R 1200 GS 2017 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 are both popular choices in the adventure motorcycle segment. While they have some similarities, they also have distinct differences that make them unique.

In terms of engine and drivetrain, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 features a Boxer engine with a displacement of 1170cc, producing 125 HP of power and 125 Nm of torque. It has a shaft drive transmission and is equipped with a 2-cylinder configuration. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 has an inline engine with a displacement of 998cc, producing 95 HP of power and 98 Nm of torque. It has a chain drive transmission and also comes with a 2-cylinder configuration.

When it comes to suspension, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has a support front suspension with pre-load adjustment, while the rear suspension is a single swinging arm with pre-load adjustment. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018, on the other hand, features an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with compression, pre-load, and recovery adjustment, and a swinging arm rear suspension with compression, pre-load, and recovery adjustment.

BMW R 1200 GS 2017

Both motorcycles have a steel frame chassis, ensuring stability and durability. They also have dual disc front brakes for powerful stopping power. However, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has a 19-inch front tire diameter and a 17-inch rear tire diameter, with a width of 170mm for the rear tire. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018, on the other hand, has a 21-inch front tire diameter and an 18-inch rear tire diameter, with a width of 150mm for the rear tire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 has a wheelbase of 1507mm and a seat height of 850mm. It weighs 238kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018, on the other hand, has a wheelbase of 1580mm and a seat height of 900mm. It weighs slightly more at 243kg (with ABS) and has a larger fuel tank capacity of 24.2 liters.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 is praised for its mature concept, strong engine, easy handling, powerful brakes, adjustable modes and traction control, wide range of equipment, good image, and value retention. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 is praised for its powerful and smooth engine, comfortable chassis, comfortable seating position, excellent appearance, good brakes, large fuel tank capacity, performance modes, and optional DCT.

However, both motorcycles also have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1200 GS 2017 is criticized for having many features at an additional cost and for exposing the boxer engine in very difficult terrains. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018, on the other hand, is criticized for its not-so-good wind protection, lack of cruise control, high seat difficult for smaller riders to climb, and the inability to disable ABS on the front wheel.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1200 GS 2017 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 are both capable adventure motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a mature concept, strong engine, and a wide range of equipment, while the Honda provides a powerful and smooth engine, comfortable chassis, and a large fuel tank capacity. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.