Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 are both powerful and versatile enduro motorcycles.

The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 boasts a 150 HP engine with a displacement of 1160 ccm, providing excellent power and acceleration. It features a prop shaft transmission and a starter that is electrically powered. The bike's suspension is equipped with a Showa upside-down telescopic fork in the front and a swing arm with a Showa monoshock in the rear, both offering 200 mm of travel. The chassis is made of steel and has a tubular frame design. The bike is equipped with double disk brakes in the front and has advanced rider assistance systems such as hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, collision warning, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, blind spot assist, and traction control. The dimensions and weights of the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer include a 19-inch front tire diameter, a 150 mm rear tire width, an 18-inch rear tire diameter, a wheelbase of 1560 mm, a seat height of 850 mm (which can be adjusted up to 870 mm), a kerb weight of 255 kg (with ABS), and a fuel tank capacity of 30 liters. The bike is also equipped with various features such as Bluetooth connectivity, heated grips, a keyless system, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a heated seat, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 features a slightly less powerful engine with 102 HP and a displacement of 1084 ccm. It has an in-line engine type and a chain transmission. The bike's suspension consists of a Showa upside-down telescopic fork in the front and a swing arm with a Showa monoshock in the rear, both offering greater travel than the Tiger 1200 GT Explorer at 230 mm and 220 mm, respectively. The chassis is also made of steel but has a double cradle frame design. The bike is equipped with double disk brakes in the front and has advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The dimensions and weights of the Africa Twin Adventure Sports include a 21-inch front tire diameter, a 150 mm rear tire width, an 18-inch rear tire diameter, a wheelbase of 1575 mm, a seat height of 850 mm (which can be adjusted up to 870 mm), a kerb weight of 238 kg (with ABS), and a fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters. The bike is also equipped with features such as Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

In terms of strengths, the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 offers a powerful engine, a high-quality electronics package, and a semi-active chassis that regulates finely. It also has extensive standard equipment, making it suitable for long-distance rides. The bike provides excellent wind and weather protection and offers agility on various terrains. Additionally, it has a better model spread between on- and off-road compared to its predecessor.

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 excels in its chassis, both mechanical and electronic. It offers the option of a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission), making it a superior touring bike. The bike also has high-quality and practical electronic ride aids, providing a pleasant and versatile riding experience. It offers good wind protection and has a high-quality overall impression. The engine of the Africa Twin Adventure Sports is flawless, with great response and a linear torque curve. The bike's handling is accessible and it offers a comfortable ride.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 has minor load change reactions on Explorer models and does not have Blind Spot Assist on Pro models. Additionally, the high pillion seat restricts freedom of movement for sporty off-roading. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 has wind protection that is too good in hot conditions, with even the lowest position of the wind shield hardly allowing any wind through. The operation of the bike via the numerous switches may seem complex, and the seat may feel too soft after a long day of riding.

In conclusion, both the Triumph Tiger 1200 GT Explorer 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 are powerful and versatile enduro motorcycles. The Tiger 1200 GT Explorer offers a more powerful engine and a wider range of advanced rider assistance systems, while the Africa Twin Adventure Sports provides a superior chassis and the option of a DCT. Both bikes have their strengths and weaknesses, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and intended usage.