Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 vs. Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 is equipped with a 1084cc in-line engine that produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. It features a chain transmission and has a displacement of 1084cc. The front suspension consists of an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220mm. The frame is made of steel and has a double cradle design. The front brakes are double disk type. The Africa Twin also comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is 1575mm, and the seat height is 850mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 236kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 18.8 liters. The Africa Twin is equipped with LED headlights.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020

On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 is powered by a 1252cc V-twin engine that delivers 150 horsepower and 127 Nm of torque. It also has a chain transmission and a displacement of 1252cc. The front suspension features an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 47mm and a travel of 191mm. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 191mm. The frame is made of aluminum and has a double cradle design. The front brakes are double disk type. The Pan America comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. It has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1585mm, and the seat height is 850mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 258kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 21.2 liters. The Pan America is equipped with Bluetooth, connectivity, heated grips, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 offers a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT, 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 Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 boasts a sporty powerplant, a comfortable seating position, good pillion suitability, extensive electronics, an original HD pannier system, wind protection, and good off-road characteristics. It also comes with cornering ABS and cornering TC as standard, and has the option for seat lowering when stationary.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 has handguards that are not very robust for off-road use, a flood of switches on the left handlebar, and a windshield that offers manageable protection. On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 experiences engine heat in city mode and does not come with a quickshifter.

In conclusion, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2021 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin excels in terms of its electronic driving aids and off-road capabilities, while the Pan America offers a powerful engine and comfortable riding experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and intended use.