Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 vs. Husqvarna Norden 901 2022

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the Husqvarna Norden 901 2022 are both powerful enduro motorcycles with similar technical specifications. However, there are some key differences between the two models.

In terms of engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 has a larger bore and stroke, resulting in a slightly higher engine power of 102 HP compared to the Husqvarna Norden 901 2022's 105 HP. The Honda also has a higher torque of 105 Nm compared to the Husqvarna's 100 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

When it comes to suspension, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 features a Showa upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45 mm and a travel of 230 mm. The rear suspension consists of a Showa monoshock with a travel of 220 mm. On the other hand, the Husqvarna Norden 901 2022 is equipped with a WP upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 220 mm. The rear suspension is also a WP monoshock with a travel of 215 mm. Both motorcycles offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustments for the suspension.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

In terms of chassis, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the Husqvarna Norden 901 2022 features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. The Honda has a slightly lower rake of 62.5 degrees compared to the Husqvarna's 64.2 degrees, resulting in a slightly more stable handling. The trail on the Honda is 113 mm, while the Husqvarna has a trail of 106.9 mm.

Both motorcycles have double disk front brakes, providing excellent stopping power. They also feature advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 additionally offers cruise control and anti-wheelie assistance, while the Husqvarna Norden 901 2022 has a quickshifter.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 21-inch front tire diameter and an 18-inch rear tire diameter. They also have a rear tire width of 150 mm. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1574 mm compared to the Husqvarna Norden 901 2022's 1513 mm. The seat height on the Honda is 850 mm, which can be adjusted up to 870 mm, while the Husqvarna has a seat height of 854 mm, adjustable up to 874 mm. The Honda has a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters, while the Husqvarna has a slightly larger capacity of 19 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer connectivity, LED headlights, and TFT displays. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 additionally features Bluetooth connectivity, while the Husqvarna Norden 901 2022 has LED daytime running lights.

Husqvarna Norden 901 2022

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 is praised for its powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and a wonderfully functioning optional DCT. It also offers good ergonomics and long-distance capability, with a windshield that is suitable for off-road riding. On the other hand, the Husqvarna Norden 901 2022 is praised for its great engine with high practicality, linear rev range, and high-quality electronics package. It offers a high level of travel comfort, a pleasantly tuned chassis, and good wind and weather protection. It is also considered tough and reliable even on long tours.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 is criticized for its operating concept of the electronics, which is not very clear and intuitive. The handguards are also not very robust for off-road use, and the windshield offers manageable protection. The ergonomics are also not ideal for standing riding. On the other hand, the Husqvarna Norden 901 2022 is criticized for the unpleasant heat development in the calf area at low speeds. It also has an unsteady engine running after a cold start and a low flywheel mass, which can cause the engine to die off.

Overall, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the Husqvarna Norden 901 2022 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would depend on individual preferences and priorities.