Epic clash of titans: triumph tiger 900 rally pro vs. honda africa twin
What To Know
- The Tiger 900 Rally Pro comes with Showa forks and a Showa monoshock, while the Africa Twin employs Showa EERA forks and a Showa Pro-Link rear suspension.
- The Tiger 900 Rally Pro has a more upright riding position with a tall windscreen and a comfortable saddle.
- The Africa Twin, on the other hand, features a more aggressive riding position with a lower windscreen and a firmer seat.
When it comes to adventure motorcycles, two titans stand head-to-head: the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro and the Honda Africa Twin. These bikes are renowned for their off-road prowess, versatility, and long-distance capabilities. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key features, specifications, and performance aspects of these two formidable machines to determine which one emerges as the ultimate adventure companion.
Engine and Performance
The Tiger 900 Rally Pro is powered by a potent 888cc inline-triple engine that delivers 94 horsepower and 64 lb-ft of torque. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, boasts a 1084cc parallel-twin engine that produces 101 horsepower and 75 lb-ft of torque. While the Honda has a slight edge in power, the Tiger’s triple-cylinder configuration provides a smoother and more linear power delivery, particularly in off-road conditions.
Suspension and Handling
Both bikes feature long-travel suspension systems designed to handle rough terrain with ease. The Tiger 900 Rally Pro comes with Showa forks and a Showa monoshock, while the Africa Twin employs Showa EERA forks and a Showa Pro-Link rear suspension. The Tiger’s suspension is slightly more adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune it for their specific riding style and terrain conditions. However, the Africa Twin’s EERA forks provide excellent bump absorption and stability, especially at high speeds.
Off-Road Capabilities
When it comes to off-road prowess, both bikes are highly capable. The Tiger 900 Rally Pro features a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel, providing excellent ground clearance and traction. The Africa Twin has a slightly larger 21-inch front wheel and 17-inch rear wheel, which offers a bit more stability on paved roads. Both bikes come equipped with off-road riding modes that optimize engine performance, suspension settings, and traction control systems for off-road conditions.
Electronics and Technology
The Tiger 900 Rally Pro and Africa Twin are packed with advanced electronics and technology to enhance the riding experience. The Tiger features a 7-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity, navigation, and a host of rider aids, including cruise control and hill hold control. The Africa Twin also offers a 6.5-inch TFT display with similar features, but it additionally includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Long-distance comfort is crucial for adventure riding. The Tiger 900 Rally Pro has a more upright riding position with a tall windscreen and a comfortable saddle. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, features a more aggressive riding position with a lower windscreen and a firmer seat. Both bikes offer adjustable handlebars and footpegs to accommodate riders of various heights and preferences.
Price and Value
The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro has a starting price of around $15,000, while the Honda Africa Twin starts at around $14,000. Both bikes offer excellent value for money, considering their performance, features, and off-road capabilities. However, the Tiger’s slightly higher price tag reflects its more advanced electronics and suspension system.
Final Note: The Ultimate Adventure Companion
The Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro and Honda Africa Twin are both exceptional adventure motorcycles that offer a thrilling and versatile riding experience. The Tiger 900 Rally Pro excels with its smooth triple-cylinder engine, adjustable suspension, and advanced electronics. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, impresses with its powerful parallel-twin engine, excellent suspension, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the individual rider’s preferences, riding style, and budget.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which bike has better off-road capabilities?
A: Both bikes are highly capable off-road, but the Tiger 900 Rally Pro may have a slight edge due to its adjustable suspension and 21-inch front wheel.
Q: Which bike is more comfortable for long-distance riding?
A: The Tiger 900 Rally Pro offers a more upright riding position and a comfortable saddle, making it slightly better for long-distance comfort.
Q: Which bike has a more advanced electronics package?
A: The Tiger 900 Rally Pro features a larger TFT display, Bluetooth connectivity, and more rider aids than the Africa Twin, which only offers Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration.