KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 vs. Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018

The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive features and performance.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 is equipped with a V2 engine that delivers 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 features an in-line engine with 95 HP of power and 98 Nm of torque. The KTM has a larger displacement of 1301ccm compared to the Honda's 998ccm.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with monoshock at the rear. However, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has a front suspension with a larger diameter of 48mm compared to the Honda's 45mm. The KTM also offers a slightly higher travel of 200mm for both the front and rear suspension.

When it comes to brakes, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 features double disk brakes with Brembo brand, while the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 has double disk brakes with Nissin brand. Both motorcycles offer good braking performance.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has a more comprehensive package. It offers suspension that is electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, radar cruise control, ride by wire, and traction control. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018, on the other hand, offers ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches, while the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The KTM has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1560mm compared to the Honda's 1580mm. The seat height of the KTM is 849mm, which can be adjusted up to 869mm, while the Honda has a seat height of 900mm, adjustable up to 920mm. The KTM weighs 243kg, the same as the Honda. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of over 23 liters.

In terms of equipment, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 offers connectivity, a keyless system, cornering lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018, on the other hand, offers LED headlights.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 stands out for its very sporty V2 power plant, extremely playful handling despite its high weight, comfortable seating position, good brakes with cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, adaptive cruise control, and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display.

The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018, on the other hand, is praised for its powerful and unagitated engine, comfortable chassis, comfortable seating position, superb looks, good brakes, large fuel tank, performance modes, and optional DCT.

As for weaknesses, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has a gearshift assistant and other features that come at an extra cost, an idiosyncratic look, and a stiff seat bench. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 has less optimal wind protection, no cruise control, a high saddle that can be difficult to climb for smaller riders, and ABS on the front wheel that cannot be switched off.

In conclusion, both the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 offer impressive features and performance. The KTM stands out for its sporty nature and advanced electronics, while the Honda offers a comfortable ride and optional DCT. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.