BMW R 1250 GS 2021 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 are both popular choices in the enduro motorcycle segment. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that make them unique.

Starting with the engine and drivetrain, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is equipped with a Boxer engine, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 features an inline engine. The BMW has a larger bore and stroke, resulting in a higher engine power of 136 HP and torque of 143 Nm, compared to the Honda's 102 HP and 105 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters, but the BMW has a transmission with a prop shaft, while the Honda has a chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a Telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The rear suspension consists of a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 45 mm and a travel of 230 mm for the front suspension. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for preload and rebound.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have steel frames. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a load-bearing engine frame type, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 features a double cradle frame type. The BMW has a slightly steeper rake of 62.9 degrees compared to the Honda's 62.5 degrees, and the trail is also slightly smaller on the BMW at 109 mm compared to the Honda's 113 mm.

Both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 also offers ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170 mm with a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase is 1525 mm, and the seat height ranges from 850 mm to 870 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 249 kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 20 liters. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm with a diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is slightly longer at 1575 mm, and the seat height ranges from 850 mm to 870 mm. The kerb weight with ABS is 226 kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 18.8 liters.

In terms of equipment, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offers additional features such as cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 comes with LED headlights.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is praised for its great ride comfort and ergonomics, powerful engine, great connectivity app, easy-to-read display, confident feel in the saddle, practical riding aids, and versatile chassis that can accommodate every route. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 is praised for its high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, wonderfully functioning DCT (optional), touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and windshield perfect for off-roading.

However, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has been criticized for its rough overall appearance and somewhat clumsy gearshifts at low revs. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has been criticized for the flood of buttons on the left handlebar, which may not be very clear, and the handguards that are not very robust for off-road use. Additionally, the windshield on the Honda offers manageable protection.

In conclusion, both the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 have their strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers great ride comfort, a powerful engine, and practical riding aids, while the Honda has a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and good ergonomics. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and specific riding needs.