Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 vs. KTM 1090 Adventure 2018

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 and the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 is equipped with a 998cc in-line engine that produces 95 horsepower and 98 Nm of torque. It features an electric starter and a chain transmission. The bike has a comfortable seating position and a steel frame. The front suspension is an upside-down telescopic fork from Showa with a diameter of 45 mm and a travel of 252 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock from Showa and a travel of 240 mm. The front brakes are double disk brakes from Nissin. The bike is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. It has a 21-inch front tire diameter, a 150 mm rear tire width, and an 18-inch rear tire diameter. The wheelbase is 1580 mm and the seat height is 900 mm. The bike has a kerb weight of 243 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 24.2 liters. It is also equipped with LED headlights.

On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 is powered by a 1050cc V-twin engine that delivers 125 horsepower and 109 Nm of torque. It also has an electric starter and a chain transmission. The bike has a chromium-molybdenum frame and an upside-down telescopic fork from WP with a diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 185 mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock from WP and a travel of 190 mm. The front brakes are double disk brakes from Brembo. Similar to the Honda, the KTM is equipped with ABS, riding modes, and traction control. It has a 19-inch front tire diameter, a 150 mm rear tire width, and a 17-inch rear tire diameter. The wheelbase is 1560 mm and the seat height is 850 mm. The bike has a kerb weight of 228 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 23 liters. It also features a height-adjustable windshield.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 is praised for its powerful and unagitated engine, comfortable chassis, comfortable seating position, and superb looks. It also has good brakes, a large fuel tank, and performance modes. Additionally, it offers an optional dual-clutch transmission (DCT) for added convenience.

On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 is commended for its very powerful and cultivated engine with a wide rev range. It also has performance modes, and the ABS can be switched off for more advanced riders. The bike offers adjustable traction control and is known for its agile and safe handling. It also has adjustable ergonomics and a height-adjustable windshield. Furthermore, the KTM has a relatively low weight and a comparatively low price.

KTM 1090 Adventure 2018

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 has suboptimal wind protection, lacks cruise control, and has a high saddle that can be difficult for smaller riders to climb onto. Additionally, the ABS on the front wheel cannot be switched off, which may limit the bike's off-road capabilities.

On the other hand, the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 is criticized for its outdated optics compared to the newer 1290 Super Adventures. The suspension fork on the KTM is also not adjustable, which may limit the bike's customization options for riders.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 and the KTM 1090 Adventure 2018 are powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. The Honda offers a comfortable and stylish ride with a larger fuel tank, while the KTM provides a more powerful engine and adjustable ergonomics at a lower price point. Ultimately, the choice between these two bikes will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.