Ultimate adventure comparison: bmw f 800 gs and honda africa twin – unveiling the best of both worlds
What To Know
- The Honda Africa Twin, on the other hand, has a more modern look with a lower seat height and a wider handlebar.
- The BMW F 800 GS comes standard with a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, while the Honda Africa Twin has a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel.
- The BMW F 800 GS has a starting price of $12,395, while the Honda Africa Twin has a starting price of $14,399.
When it comes to adventure bikes, two models consistently rank among the top choices: the BMW F 800 GS and the Honda Africa Twin. Both bikes offer a compelling blend of performance, versatility, and reliability, making them ideal for exploring both on- and off-road. But which one is the better choice for you? To help you decide, let’s compare the BMW F 800 GS and the Honda Africa Twin in key areas.
Design and Ergonomics
The BMW F 800 GS features a classic adventure bike design with a tall, upright riding position and a relatively narrow profile. The Honda Africa Twin, on the other hand, has a more modern look with a lower seat height and a wider handlebar. Both bikes offer comfortable ergonomics for long rides, with adjustable seats and handlebars to suit a variety of riders.
Engine and Performance
The BMW F 800 GS is powered by a 798cc parallel-twin engine that produces 85 horsepower and 61 lb-ft of torque. The Honda Africa Twin has a larger 998cc parallel-twin engine that produces 94 horsepower and 72 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are smooth and responsive, but the Honda’s larger displacement gives it a slight edge in power and torque.
Suspension and Off-Road Capability
The BMW F 800 GS comes standard with a 19-inch front wheel and a 17-inch rear wheel, while the Honda Africa Twin has a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel. Both bikes have long-travel suspension with adjustable settings, making them capable of handling rough terrain. However, the Honda’s larger wheels and longer suspension travel give it a slight advantage in off-road situations.
Technology and Features
The BMW F 800 GS comes standard with a variety of technology features, including ABS, traction control, and hill-start assist. The Honda Africa Twin has a similar suite of features, but it also adds Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Both bikes offer optional features such as heated grips, cruise control, and GPS navigation.
Price and Value
The BMW F 800 GS has a starting price of $12,395, while the Honda Africa Twin has a starting price of $14,399. Both bikes offer a good value for the money, but the BMW is slightly more affordable. However, the Honda comes with a more powerful engine and more advanced technology, which may be worth the extra cost for some riders.
Conclusion: The Best Choice for You
Ultimately, the best choice between the BMW F 800 GS and the Honda Africa Twin depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more affordable and versatile adventure bike, the BMW F 800 GS is a great option. However, if you’re looking for a more powerful and off-road capable bike, the Honda Africa Twin is the better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which bike is better for long-distance riding?
A: Both the BMW F 800 GS and the Honda Africa Twin are comfortable for long rides, with adjustable seats and handlebars. However, the Honda’s larger engine and more advanced technology may give it a slight edge in comfort on long journeys.
Q: Which bike is better for off-road riding?
A: The Honda Africa Twin has a slight advantage in off-road riding thanks to its larger wheels and longer suspension travel. However, both bikes are capable of handling rough terrain, and the choice between them will depend on your specific riding style and needs.
Q: Which bike is more reliable?
A: Both the BMW F 800 GS and the Honda Africa Twin have a reputation for reliability. However, the BMW has a slightly longer service interval of 6,000 miles compared to the Honda’s 5,000 miles.