KTM 1050 Adventure 2015 vs. Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018

The KTM 1050 Adventure 2015 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 are both enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and specifications.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the KTM 1050 Adventure 2015 has a larger bore of 103 mm compared to the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 with a bore of 92 mm. The stroke of the KTM is 63 mm, while the Honda has a stroke of 75.1 mm. Both bikes have a similar engine power of 95 HP, but the KTM has a higher torque of 107 Nm compared to the Honda's 98 Nm. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions. They also have 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1050 ccm for the KTM and 998 ccm for the Honda.

KTM 1050 Adventure 2015

In terms of suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension. However, the KTM uses WP suspension while the Honda uses Showa suspension for both the front and rear. The chassis of the KTM is made of chromium-molybdenum, while the Honda has a steel frame.

When it comes to brakes, the KTM uses Brembo brakes for the front, while the Honda uses Nissin brakes. Both bikes have a front tire diameter of 19 inches, but the Honda has a larger front tire diameter of 21 inches. The rear tire width is the same for both bikes at 150 mm, but the Honda has a larger rear tire diameter of 18 inches compared to the KTM's 17 inches. The wheelbase of the Honda is slightly longer at 1580 mm compared to the KTM's 1560 mm. The seat height of the Honda is also higher at 900 mm compared to the KTM's 850 mm. The Honda is also heavier with a kerb weight of 243 kg compared to the KTM's 230 kg. Both bikes have large fuel tank capacities, with the Honda having a slightly larger capacity of 24.2 liters compared to the KTM's 23 liters.

In terms of strengths, the KTM 1050 Adventure 2015 has a powerful and cultivated engine, disengageable ABS, adjustable traction control, agile handling, adjustable ergonomics, a prestigious look similar to its larger sister models, a height-adjustable windshield, low weight, and an affordable price. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 has a powerful and unagitated engine, a comfortable chassis, a comfortable seating position, superb looks, good brakes, a large fuel tank, performance modes, and the option for a DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission).

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018

However, both bikes also have their weaknesses. The KTM 1050 Adventure 2015 has a rev limiter that kicks in at 8500 revs and wind protection that is not quite optimal. The Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 also has wind protection that is not quite optimal, no cruise control, a high saddle that can be difficult for smaller riders to climb, and ABS on the front wheel that cannot be switched off.

Overall, both the KTM 1050 Adventure 2015 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2018 have their own unique features and strengths. It ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities in terms of engine performance, handling, comfort, and other factors.