Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

The Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. They have similar engine types, with the V-Strom having a V-twin engine and the Africa Twin having an inline-twin engine. The V-Strom has a larger bore and stroke, resulting in slightly higher engine power and torque compared to the Africa Twin. The V-Strom produces 107 HP of power and 100 Nm of torque, while the Africa Twin produces 102 HP of power and 105 Nm of torque.

Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions. They also have similar suspension setups, with upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with monoshock absorbers at the rear. The V-Strom uses Kayaba suspension components, while the Africa Twin uses Showa components. The Africa Twin has slightly longer suspension travel, with 230 mm at the front and 220 mm at the rear, compared to 170 mm and 169 mm respectively for the V-Strom.

In terms of chassis, the V-Strom has an aluminum twin-tube frame, while the Africa Twin has a steel double cradle frame. Both motorcycles have a similar rake angle of 62.5 degrees, but the Africa Twin has a shorter trail of 113 mm compared to 126 mm for the V-Strom.

Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front, providing excellent stopping power. They also come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The V-Strom also includes additional features like hill start assist, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, and LED headlights. The Africa Twin has anti-wheelie control as an additional feature.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the V-Strom has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1595 mm compared to 1575 mm for the Africa Twin. The V-Strom also has a higher seat height of 880 mm compared to 850 mm for the Africa Twin. However, the V-Strom is heavier, with a kerb weight of 252 kg compared to 226 kg for the Africa Twin. Both motorcycles have similar fuel tank capacities, with the V-Strom having a 20-liter tank and the Africa Twin having an 18.8-liter tank.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED headlights. The V-Strom also features a TFT display, while the Africa Twin has a touch-screen color display.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

In terms of strengths, the V-Strom offers a powerful engine, a simple but high-quality electronics package, good ergonomics, and a reasonable price. It also has a great gravel mode and off-road ABS, making it suitable for adventure riding. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, offers a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and a wonderfully functioning DCT option. It also has good ergonomics and is capable of long-distance riding.

In terms of weaknesses, the V-Strom appears large and somewhat unwieldy when maneuvering, and it has above-average weight. The suspension travel could also be greater. The Africa Twin has a flood of buttons on the left handlebar that may not be very clear, and its handguards are not very robust for off-road use. The windshield on the Africa Twin offers manageable protection.

Overall, both the Suzuki V-Strom 1050DE 2023 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 are capable and well-equipped enduro motorcycles. The choice between them will depend on individual preferences and priorities, such as power, electronics, ergonomics, and off-road capability.