Adventure bikes compared: husqvarna norden 901 expedition vs honda africa twin – who will conquer?
What To Know
- Both the Norden 901 Expedition and the Africa Twin come loaded with a suite of advanced electronics and features.
- On the road, both the Norden 901 Expedition and the Africa Twin offer a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience.
- The Norden 901 Expedition’s upright riding position and wind protection make it a great choice for long-distance touring, while the Africa Twin’s smooth engine and suspension provide a more relaxed and cruiser-like ride.
The world of adventure motorcycles is vast and ever-evolving, with new models emerging every year that promise to redefine the boundaries of exploration. Two such models that have captured the attention of riders worldwide are the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition and the Honda Africa Twin. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the intricacies of these two formidable machines, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for different types of riders.
Engine and Performance
The Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition boasts an 889cc parallel-twin engine that delivers a potent 105 horsepower and 73 lb-ft of torque. Its smooth power delivery and ample torque make it an ideal companion for both on-road and off-road adventures. The Honda Africa Twin, on the other hand, is equipped with a 1084cc parallel-twin engine that produces 101 horsepower and 75 lb-ft of torque. While offering slightly less horsepower, the Africa Twin’s engine is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency.
Suspension and Handling
The Norden 901 Expedition is equipped with a fully adjustable WP Xplor suspension system that provides ample ground clearance and a plush ride. Its 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel offer excellent stability and traction on rough terrain. The Africa Twin, meanwhile, features a Showa cartridge-type fork and Pro-Link rear suspension with a longer wheelbase. This setup provides a more comfortable ride on long stretches of pavement but may compromise its agility in technical off-road conditions.
Electronics and Features
Both the Norden 901 Expedition and the Africa Twin come loaded with a suite of advanced electronics and features. The Norden 901 Expedition features a 5-inch TFT display, traction control, cornering ABS, and a quickshifter. The Africa Twin offers a similar range of features, including a 6.5-inch TFT display, cruise control, and a dual-clutch transmission option. However, the Africa Twin’s electronics are generally considered to be more user-friendly and intuitive.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Norden 901 Expedition is designed to excel in off-road conditions. Its lightweight construction, agile handling, and long-travel suspension make it a capable machine for tackling challenging terrain. The Africa Twin, while also capable off-road, is slightly heavier and bulkier, which may limit its maneuverability in tight or technical sections.
On-Road Performance
On the road, both the Norden 901 Expedition and the Africa Twin offer a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. The Norden 901 Expedition’s upright riding position and wind protection make it a great choice for long-distance touring, while the Africa Twin’s smooth engine and suspension provide a more relaxed and cruiser-like ride.
Price and Availability
The Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition has a starting price of $13,999, while the Honda Africa Twin starts at $14,499. Both models are available at authorized dealerships worldwide.
In a nutshell: The Perfect Adventure Companion
Choosing between the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition and the Honda Africa Twin ultimately depends on your individual riding style and preferences. If you prioritize off-road performance, agility, and a lightweight design, the Norden 901 Expedition is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a more comfortable on-road ride, user-friendly electronics, and proven reliability, the Africa Twin may be the better option.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Which motorcycle has more horsepower?
The Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition has 105 horsepower, while the Honda Africa Twin has 101 horsepower.
2. Which motorcycle is lighter?
The Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition weighs 451 pounds, while the Honda Africa Twin weighs 505 pounds.
3. Which motorcycle has a longer suspension travel?
The Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition has a suspension travel of 9.4 inches in the front and 9.8 inches in the rear, while the Honda Africa Twin has a suspension travel of 9.1 inches in the front and 8.7 inches in the rear.
4. Which motorcycle has a larger fuel tank?
The Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition has a fuel tank capacity of 5.1 gallons, while the Honda Africa Twin has a fuel tank capacity of 6.4 gallons.
5. Which motorcycle has a longer wheelbase?
The Honda Africa Twin has a wheelbase of 62.8 inches, while the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition has a wheelbase of 59.1 inches.