Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 vs. BMW F 850 GS 2022

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 and the BMW F 850 GS 2022 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and features. However, they have some key differences that make them suitable for different types of riders.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda Africa Twin is equipped with a 1084cc inline twin-cylinder engine that delivers 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the BMW F 850 GS features an 853cc inline twin-cylinder engine that produces 95 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque. While both engines are capable, the Africa Twin offers slightly more power and torque.

In terms of suspension, the Honda Africa Twin comes with an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm at the front, and a swing arm suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm at the rear. The BMW F 850 GS also features an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 43mm and a travel of 204mm at the front, and a swing arm suspension with a monoshock and a travel of 219mm at the rear. Both motorcycles offer adjustable suspension, but the Africa Twin provides more travel, which is beneficial for off-road riding.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. However, the Africa Twin has a double cradle frame, while the F 850 GS has a tubular, load-bearing engine frame. Both frames provide stability and durability, but the Africa Twin's double cradle frame may offer better off-road performance.

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. However, the Africa Twin offers more advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The F 850 GS only has ABS as an advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, 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, a kerb weight of 236kg (with ABS), and a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. On the other hand, the F 850 GS has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1593mm, a seat height of 860mm, a kerb weight of 229kg (with ABS), and a fuel tank capacity of 15 liters. Both motorcycles offer similar dimensions, but the Africa Twin is slightly lighter and has a larger fuel tank capacity.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin stands out with its high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, wonderfully functioning DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and a windshield that is perfect for off-roading. On the other hand, the F 850 GS excels in wind and weather protection, a well-thought-out operating concept, practical equipment, very accessible operation and driveability in everyday use, good seat comfort, and a great connectivity solution.

However, the Africa Twin has some weaknesses, including standard handguards that are not very robust for off-road use, an electronic operating concept that requires familiarization and close examination, and a windshield that offers manageable protection. On the other hand, the F 850 GS has some weaknesses such as vibrations in the upper rev range, a boring engine, a stiff quickshifter gearstick, front damping that is too lax, a fork that is not adjustable, a ponderous feel, and a front brake that could do with more bite.

In conclusion, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 and the BMW F 850 GS 2022 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin offers more power, advanced rider assistance systems, and better off-road performance, while the F 850 GS provides good wind and weather protection, practical features, and comfortable everyday use. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended usage.