Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. However, they have some key differences in terms of their technical specifications and overall strengths and weaknesses.

Starting with the technical specifications, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 is equipped with an in-line engine with a displacement of 1084cc. It produces 102 HP of power and 105 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a chain transmission and features a two-cylinder configuration. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a V2 engine with a displacement of 1301cc. It delivers a higher power output of 160 HP and torque of 138 Nm. Similar to the Honda, it also has a chain transmission and a two-cylinder configuration.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 is equipped with Showa suspension components, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 features WP suspension components. The front suspension on the Honda has a larger diameter of 45mm compared to the 48mm on the KTM. Both motorcycles offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustment for the suspension.

When it comes to the chassis, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 has a steel frame with a double cradle design, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular design. The rake angle on the Honda is 62.5 degrees, while the KTM has a slightly steeper rake angle of 65.3 degrees.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 also offers similar rider assistance systems including suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 has a slightly smaller front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase on the Honda is 1575mm, while the KTM has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1560mm. The seat height on the Honda is adjustable from 850mm to 870mm, while the KTM has a seat height range of 849mm to 869mm. The Honda has a kerb weight of 238kg, while the KTM weighs slightly more at 243kg. The fuel tank capacity on the Honda is 24.8 liters, providing a range of 506km, while the KTM has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 23 liters, providing a range of 416km. The combined fuel consumption on the Honda is 4.9 l/100km, while the KTM has a slightly higher fuel consumption of 5.7 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with modern features such as LED headlights, TFT displays, and connectivity options. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 also offers Bluetooth connectivity, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 comes with additional features such as cornering lights and an adjustable windscreen.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 is praised for its very good chassis, both mechanical and electronic, and its DCT option, which makes it a superior touring bike. It also offers high-quality and practical electronic ride aids, good wind protection, and a high-quality overall impression. The engine is highly responsive with a linear torque curve, and the handling is accessible and pleasant. Overall, it is considered a wonderfully versatile bike.

On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is praised for its sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant and its accessible handling despite its high weight. It offers a comfortable and driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, and a comprehensive electronics package. The instrumentation is clear and well-structured, featuring a large 7-inch display.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 is criticized for its wind protection, which is too good in hot conditions, and the operation of the numerous switches, which can be complex. Some riders also find the seat to be too soft after a long day of riding. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 is criticized for its somewhat sluggish turn-in behavior in bends and the perceived lack of high-quality materials and switches.

In conclusion, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both capable and powerful enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda offers a versatile and practical touring experience with high-quality ride aids, while the KTM provides a sportier and more performance-oriented ride with a range of advanced features. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.