Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 vs. Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020

In terms of engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 features an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 75.1 mm. It has an engine power of 95 HP and a torque of 98 Nm. The starter is electric and the transmission is chain-driven. It has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 998 ccm. On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020 has a V-type engine with a bore of 100 mm and a stroke of 66 mm. It has an engine power of 107 HP and a torque of 100 Nm. The starter is electric and the transmission is also chain-driven. It has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1037 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front and swing arm suspension in the rear. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 uses Showa brand for the front suspension, while the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020 uses Kayaba brand. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for compression, preload, and rebound in the front suspension. However, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020 only offers preload and rebound adjustment in the rear suspension.

In terms of chassis, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 has a steel frame, while the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020 has an aluminum frame. This may affect the weight and overall handling of the motorcycles.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes in the front and come equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1575 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 232 kg and it has a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1555 mm and a slightly higher seat height of 855 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 236 kg and it has a slightly larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters.

Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 is praised for its reliable engine, comfortable seating position, well-tuned chassis, good looks, good brakes, optional DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), and performance modes. On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020 is praised for its great V2 engine that performs well in practice, good wind protection, pleasant seating comfort, and great long-distance capability.

However, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 has some weaknesses, including not quite optimal wind protection, lack of cruise control, and the inability to switch off ABS on the front wheel. On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020 has some deficits in equipment, with some details from the XT version being missed.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2018 and the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 2020 have their own strengths and weaknesses. It ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities in terms of engine performance, comfort, handling, and features.