Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 vs. Yamaha Tenere 700 2023

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the Yamaha Tenere 700 2023 are both popular enduro motorcycles that offer a range of features and capabilities.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a larger displacement with 1084cc compared to the Yamaha Tenere 700 2023's 689cc. This results in the Africa Twin having more power with 102 HP compared to the Tenere's 73 HP. The Africa Twin also has higher torque with 105 Nm compared to the Tenere's 68 Nm. Both motorcycles have a 2-cylinder engine and use a chain transmission system.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks for the front suspension. However, the Africa Twin offers more travel with 230mm compared to the Tenere's 210mm. For the rear suspension, both motorcycles have a swing arm design, but the Africa Twin again offers more travel with 220mm compared to the Tenere's 200mm.

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a double cradle frame type, which provides stability and strength.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

For the braking system, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The Africa Twin offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The Tenere, on the other hand, only offers ABS as an advanced rider assistance system.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 21-inch front tire diameter and an 18-inch rear tire diameter. The rear tire width is also the same at 150mm. The Africa Twin has a slightly shorter wheelbase at 1575mm compared to the Tenere's 1590mm. The seat height of the Africa Twin is also lower at 850mm compared to the Tenere's 880mm. The Africa Twin is slightly heavier with a kerb weight of 226kg compared to the Tenere's 204kg. The Africa Twin also has a larger fuel tank capacity with 18.8 liters compared to the Tenere's 16 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have LED headlights. The Tenere also has the additional feature of a TFT display, providing a more modern and advanced display compared to the Africa Twin's touch-screen color display.

In terms of strengths, the Africa Twin has a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and a wonderfully functioning DCT (option). It also has good ergonomics and is capable of long-distance riding. The windshield of the Africa Twin is also well-suited for off-roading.

Yamaha Tenere 700 2023

The Tenere has a very robust and reliable appearance, as well as a sporty and sleek appearance. It offers playful handling and has an amazingly sporty and fun engine. The Tenere also has good workmanship and a practical adjustment range for the chassis. It is comparatively lightweight and very tough. The ABS can also be switched off, making it more off-road capable. The Tenere also offers very good ergonomics.

In terms of weaknesses, the Africa Twin has a flood of buttons on the left handlebar, which may not be very clear. The handguards of the Africa Twin are also not very robust for off-road use, and the windshield offers only manageable protection.

The Tenere has little seating comfort on longer tours and the brake feels a little lax on asphalt. The equipment list in terms of electronics is also very short, and there are load changes at low revs. The operating concept with the fiddly wheel was also not well received during testing.

Overall, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the Yamaha Tenere 700 2023 have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Africa Twin offers more power, advanced rider assistance systems, and a larger fuel tank capacity. The Tenere, on the other hand, has a more sporty and sleek appearance, playful handling, and good off-road capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.