Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 vs. KTM 790 Adventure 2020

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive off-road capabilities. However, they have some notable differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 is equipped with a 1084cc inline twin engine that produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 features a slightly smaller 799cc inline twin engine that delivers 95 horsepower and 88 Nm of torque. While both engines are powerful and capable, the Honda Africa Twin offers slightly more power and torque.

In terms of suspension, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 comes with a Showa upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a Showa monoshock at the rear. The front suspension has a diameter of 45mm and offers a travel of 230mm, while the rear suspension provides a travel of 220mm. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 is equipped with a WP upside-down telescopic fork at the front and a WP monoshock at the rear. The front suspension has a diameter of 43mm and offers a travel of 200mm, similar to the rear suspension. Both motorcycles offer excellent suspension performance, but the Honda Africa Twin provides slightly more travel, which can be advantageous in off-road conditions.

In terms of chassis, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 features a steel frame with a double cradle design. This provides a sturdy and reliable structure. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has a chromium-molybdenum frame with a tubular, load-bearing engine design. This design offers high chassis stability and durability. Both chassis designs are suitable for off-road riding, but the KTM 790 Adventure's frame design may provide slightly better stability.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

Both motorcycles come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 also offers additional features like cornering ABS and anti-wheelie control, which can enhance safety and performance in various riding conditions.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a wheelbase of 1575mm and a seat height that can be adjusted from 850mm to 870mm. It also has a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1509mm and a seat height that can be adjusted from 830mm to 850mm. It has a larger fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. Both motorcycles offer comfortable seating positions and sufficient fuel capacity for long-distance riding.

Moving on to the strengths of each motorcycle, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 stands out for its high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and the option for a wonderfully functioning DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission). It also features a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. Additionally, the windshield of the Africa Twin is well-suited for off-roading.

KTM 790 Adventure 2020

On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has its own strengths. It boasts an engine with manners and character, offering a unique riding experience. The motorcycle also provides enormously high chassis stability, ensuring a confident ride. The brakes on the KTM 790 Adventure are without reproach, offering excellent stopping power. Furthermore, the bike has tremendous off-road capabilities and delivers low average fuel consumption.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses as well. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a flood of buttons on the left handlebar, which may not be very clear or user-friendly. Additionally, the handguards on the Africa Twin are not very robust for off-road use, and the windshield offers only manageable protection.

On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 has an unattractive surcharge policy, which may make it less appealing to potential buyers. The original seat on the KTM 790 Adventure is also not optimally shaped, which may affect comfort during long rides.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the KTM 790 Adventure 2020 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin offers more power and torque, along with additional features like cornering ABS and anti-wheelie control. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure provides a unique riding experience, excellent chassis stability, and impressive off-road capabilities. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.