Adventure giants collide: honda africa twin and v-strom 1000 face off

Adventure enthusiasts, prepare for an epic clash as we delve into the heart of the heavyweight adventure motorcycle segment with a comprehensive comparison of the Honda Africa Twin and the Suzuki V-Strom 1000. These two titans have dominated the market for years, each offering a unique blend of performance, comfort, and off-road prowess. In this in-depth analysis, we will pit them head-to-head to determine which one reigns supreme.

Engine and Performance:

At the core of these machines lie their formidable engines. The Honda Africa Twin boasts a potent 1084cc parallel-twin engine that delivers 101 horsepower and 75 lb-ft of torque. Its smooth power delivery and linear acceleration make it an excellent choice for long-distance touring and tackling challenging terrain.

On the other hand, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 packs a 1037cc V-twin engine that produces 107 horsepower and 86 lb-ft of torque. Its low-end grunt and broad powerband provide ample thrust for both on-road and off-road adventures.

Suspension and Handling:

When it comes to tackling rough terrain, suspension and handling play a crucial role. The Africa Twin features a fully adjustable Showa suspension with 9.1 inches of front travel and 8.7 inches of rear travel. Its long-travel suspension absorbs bumps with ease and inspires confidence on uneven surfaces.

The V-Strom 1000 also boasts a fully adjustable suspension system, but with slightly less travel at 6.3 inches in front and 6.7 inches in the rear. Despite this, it offers a composed and stable ride, making it a more suitable choice for on-road touring.

Off-Road Capabilities:

Adventure motorcycles are designed to conquer off-road challenges. The Africa Twin comes standard with a 21-inch front wheel and a 18-inch rear wheel, providing excellent traction and stability on loose surfaces. Its ground clearance of 9.1 inches allows it to navigate obstacles with ease.

The V-Strom 1000, while less off-road-oriented, still offers impressive capabilities with its 19-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel. Its ground clearance of 6.7 inches is sufficient for light off-roading and gravel roads.

Comfort and Ergonomics:

Long-distance riding requires a comfortable and ergonomic design. The Africa Twin features an upright riding position with a wide, adjustable handlebar that provides excellent control and comfort. Its plush seat offers ample support and reduces fatigue on extended journeys.

The V-Strom 1000 also provides a comfortable riding position, but its seat is slightly narrower and less supportive than the Africa Twin‘s. Its handlebar is also less adjustable, limiting the rider’s ability to customize their position.

Technology and Features:

Modern adventure motorcycles come equipped with advanced technology and features. The Africa Twin boasts a large TFT display that provides comprehensive information and includes features such as navigation and Bluetooth connectivity. It also offers a variety of electronic rider aids, including traction control, wheelie control, and cruise control.

The V-Strom 1000 features a more basic LCD display, but it still provides essential information and includes Bluetooth connectivity. Its electronic rider aids are less comprehensive than the Africa Twin’s, but it offers cruise control, traction control, and hill hold control.

Price and Value:

The Honda Africa Twin and Suzuki V-Strom 1000 come with comparable price tags. The Africa Twin typically starts around $14,500, while the V-Strom 1000 starts at $14,000. Both motorcycles offer excellent value for money, providing a blend of performance, comfort, and features that justify their premium pricing.

The Verdict:

Choosing between the Honda Africa Twin and the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road capabilities, the Africa Twin with its superior suspension, ground clearance, and off-road features is the clear choice.

For riders who prefer a more balanced approach, with excellent on-road comfort and handling combined with decent off-road abilities, the Suzuki V-Strom 1000 is the better option. Its lower cost, narrower profile, and more compact design make it a great choice for daily commuting and weekend adventures.

What You Need to Know

Q: Which motorcycle has more power?
A: The Suzuki V-Strom 1000 produces slightly more horsepower (107 hp) than the Honda Africa Twin (101 hp).

Q: Which motorcycle has better off-road capabilities?
A: The Honda Africa Twin has superior off-road capabilities with its longer suspension travel, higher ground clearance, and 21-inch front wheel.

Q: Which motorcycle is more comfortable for long-distance riding?
A: The Africa Twin offers a more comfortable riding position with a wide, adjustable handlebar and a plush seat.

Q: Which motorcycle has more advanced technology?
A: The Africa Twin features a larger TFT display, more comprehensive electronic rider aids, and navigation.

Q: Which motorcycle is more affordable?
A: The Suzuki V-Strom 1000 typically has a slightly lower starting price than the Honda Africa Twin.