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

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 is equipped with an in-line 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 853ccm. It has a bore of 84mm and a stroke of 77mm, producing a power output of 95 HP and a torque of 92 Nm. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 also features an in-line 2-cylinder engine, but with a larger displacement of 1084ccm. It has a bore of 92mm and a stroke of 81.5mm, delivering a higher power output of 102 HP and a torque of 105 Nm.

Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions, providing efficient and reliable performance.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front and swing arm suspension with monoshock absorbers in the rear. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 offers slightly better suspension travel, with 230mm in the front and 220mm in the rear, compared to the BMW F 850 GS 2022's 204mm front travel and 219mm rear travel. The Honda also provides additional adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound in the rear suspension, allowing for more customization and fine-tuning of the ride experience.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

Both motorcycles have steel frames, but the BMW F 850 GS 2022 features a tubular, load-bearing engine frame, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has a double cradle frame. The rake and trail measurements are similar, with the BMW having a rake of 62 degrees and a trail of 126mm, and the Honda having a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes in the front. The BMW F 850 GS 2022 does not provide specific details about the type of brakes used, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, cornering ABS, and ride by wire technology.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has a larger rear tire diameter of 18 inches, compared to the BMW F 850 GS 2022's 17-inch rear tire diameter. The wheelbase of the Honda is slightly shorter at 1574mm, while the BMW has a wheelbase of 1593mm. The seat height of the Honda is also slightly lower at 850mm, compared to the BMW's 860mm seat height. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has a larger fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters, while the BMW F 850 GS 2022 has a fuel tank capacity of 15 liters. The kerb weight of both motorcycles is similar, with the Honda weighing 226kg and the BMW weighing 229kg with ABS.

In terms of strengths, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 offers good wind and weather protection, a well-thought-out operating concept, practical equipment, and very accessible operation and driveability in everyday use. It also provides good seat comfort and a great connectivity solution. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 boasts a powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional), a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It also has a windshield that is suitable for off-road riding.

However, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 does have some weaknesses, including vibrations in the upper rev range, a boring engine, a stiff quickshifter gearstick, and front damping that is too lax. The fork is also not adjustable, and the motorcycle has a ponderous feel. The front brake could do with more bite. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has weaknesses such as an operating concept of the electronics that is not very clear and intuitive, handguards that are not very robust for off-road use, a windshield that offers manageable protection, and ergonomics that are not ideal for standing riding.