Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 vs. BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 are both enduro motorcycles that offer powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems.

In terms of engine specifications, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a larger displacement of 1084cc compared to the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019's 853cc. The Africa Twin also has a higher engine power of 102 HP and torque of 105 Nm, while the F 850 GS Adventure has 95 HP and 92 Nm of torque. Both bikes have a 2-cylinder in-line engine type and an electric starter.

When it comes to suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks in the front and swing arm suspension in the rear. The Africa Twin has a larger front fork diameter of 45mm compared to the F 850 GS Adventure's 43mm. However, the F 850 GS Adventure has a slightly longer rear suspension travel of 215mm compared to the Africa Twin's 220mm. The Africa Twin also offers more adjustment options for the rear suspension, including compression, preload, and rebound.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

In terms of chassis, both bikes have a steel frame. The Africa Twin has a double cradle frame type, while the F 850 GS Adventure has a tubular, load-bearing engine frame type. Both bikes have a similar rake angle, with the Africa Twin at 62.5 degrees and the F 850 GS Adventure at 62 degrees. However, the F 850 GS Adventure has a larger trail measurement of 124.6mm compared to the Africa Twin's 113mm.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes in the front. The Africa Twin offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The F 850 GS Adventure also has ABS, anti-slipping control, riding modes, and ride by wire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150mm rear tire width. However, the F 850 GS Adventure has a slightly smaller 17-inch rear tire diameter compared to the Africa Twin's 18-inch. The F 850 GS Adventure also has a longer wheelbase of 1593mm compared to the Africa Twin's 1575mm. The seat height of the F 850 GS Adventure is higher at 875mm compared to the Africa Twin's 850mm. The F 850 GS Adventure also has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters compared to the Africa Twin's 18.8 liters. However, the F 850 GS Adventure is heavier with a kerb weight of 244kg compared to the Africa Twin's 226kg.

BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin offers a high-torque 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 perfect for off-roading. On the other hand, the F 850 GS Adventure has a silky-smooth engine, top ergonomics and comfort, and is absolutely suitable for touring. It is also suitable for off-road use and is technically very mature.

In terms of weaknesses, 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 also offers manageable protection. The F 850 GS Adventure, on the other hand, has a high price with additional equipment, an engine that exudes little emotion, a fork that is not adjustable, and a quite high weight.

Overall, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin offers a more powerful engine and advanced electronic features, while the F 850 GS Adventure provides a smooth and comfortable riding experience with touring capabilities.