Xtz vs africa twin: ultimate adventure bike showdown of the century!
What To Know
- In terms of handling, the Super Tenere is slightly quicker and more nimble, while the Africa Twin is more stable and predictable at higher speeds.
- Additionally, the Africa Twin has a digital instrument cluster that provides a wealth of information, while the Super Tenere has a more traditional analog instrument cluster.
- Both the Super Tenere and the Africa Twin are capable of long-distance touring, but the Super Tenere’s more comfortable seat and longer suspension travel make….
When it comes to adventure motorcycles, two iconic names stand out: the Yamaha XTZ 750 Super Tenere and the Honda XRV 750 Africa Twin. Both bikes have established themselves as legendary machines, renowned for their ruggedness, versatility, and off-road prowess. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between the Yamaha XTZ 750 Super Tenere and the Honda XRV 750 Africa Twin, exploring their strengths, weaknesses, and how they stack up against each other.
Engine and Performance
The Super Tenere boasts a 749cc parallel-twin engine that delivers 72 horsepower and 58 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the Africa Twin is powered by a 742cc V-twin engine that produces 69 horsepower and 66 lb-ft of torque. While both engines offer ample power for adventure riding, the Africa Twin’s V-twin configuration provides a smoother and more linear power delivery.
Chassis and Suspension
The Super Tenere is built on a steel frame with a long-travel suspension system that provides 8.3 inches of front and 9.4 inches of rear travel. This setup allows the Super Tenere to handle rough terrain with ease and provides excellent stability at high speeds. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, features an aluminum frame with a slightly shorter suspension travel of 7.9 inches in the front and 8.3 inches in the rear. Despite the shorter travel, the Africa Twin’s suspension is highly adjustable and offers a plush ride on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
Braking and Handling
Both the Super Tenere and the Africa Twin are equipped with dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake. The Super Tenere’s brakes provide strong stopping power, while the Africa Twin’s brakes offer better modulation and feel. In terms of handling, the Super Tenere is slightly quicker and more nimble, while the Africa Twin is more stable and predictable at higher speeds.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both the Super Tenere and the Africa Twin are designed to excel off-road. The Super Tenere’s long-travel suspension and wide handlebars provide excellent ground clearance and control in challenging conditions. The Africa Twin, with its shorter suspension travel and narrower handlebars, is better suited for technical terrain and tight trails.
Comfort and Ergonomics
The Super Tenere‘s seat is wider and more comfortable than the Africa Twin’s, providing better support for long rides. The Super Tenere also has a higher handlebar position, which gives the rider a more upright and relaxed riding position. The Africa Twin’s seat is narrower and firmer, but it allows for more freedom of movement when standing up on the pegs.
Technology and Features
The Super Tenere comes with a comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids, including traction control, cruise control, and ABS. The Africa Twin also features traction control and ABS, but it lacks cruise control. Additionally, the Africa Twin has a digital instrument cluster that provides a wealth of information, while the Super Tenere has a more traditional analog instrument cluster.
Reliability and Maintenance
Both the Super Tenere and the Africa Twin have a reputation for being reliable and easy to maintain. However, the Africa Twin has a slight edge in terms of overall reliability, as it has fewer reported mechanical issues. Both bikes require regular maintenance, but the Africa Twin’s shorter suspension travel makes it easier to access for servicing.
Takeaways: The Ultimate Choice
The Yamaha XTZ 750 Super Tenere and the Honda XRV 750 Africa Twin are both exceptional adventure motorcycles that offer unique strengths and weaknesses. The Super Tenere excels with its long-travel suspension, comfortable seat, and comprehensive electronic rider aids. The Africa Twin, on the other hand, offers a smoother power delivery, better brakes, and a more stable ride at higher speeds.
Ultimately, the choice between the Super Tenere and the Africa Twin depends on your individual riding style and preferences. If you prioritize off-road performance and comfort, the Super Tenere is the better option. If you value stability, reliability, and a more refined experience on the road, the Africa Twin is the bike for you.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Which bike is better for long-distance touring?
A: Both the Super Tenere and the Africa Twin are capable of long-distance touring, but the Super Tenere’s more comfortable seat and longer suspension travel make it the better choice for extended rides.
Q: Which bike has better fuel economy?
A: The Africa Twin typically gets slightly better fuel economy than the Super Tenere, with an average of 50-55 mpg compared to the Super Tenere’s 45-50 mpg.
Q: Which bike is more expensive to maintain?
A: The Super Tenere is slightly more expensive to maintain than the Africa Twin due to its more complex suspension system and electronic rider aids.