Africa twin or super adventure? the best adventure motorcycle for your needs, revealed

Adventure motorcycles are the ultimate machines for exploring the great unknown, offering riders a blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability. Among the most renowned adventure bikes on the market today are the Honda Africa Twin and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure. These two titans of the adventure segment have been locked in a fierce rivalry for years, each offering its own unique strengths and characteristics. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricate details of the Honda Africa Twin vs KTM 1290 Super Adventure, comparing their performance, features, design, and more, to help you make an informed decision about which one suits your adventure riding needs best.

Performance

Engine

At the heart of the Honda Africa Twin lies a 1084cc parallel-twin engine that delivers 101 horsepower and 75 lb-ft of torque. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure, on the other hand, boasts a massive 1301cc V-twin engine that produces an impressive 160 horsepower and 103 lb-ft of torque. While the KTM’s engine offers greater power and torque, the Honda’s parallel-twin configuration is known for its smoothness and reliability.

Transmission

Both the Africa Twin and the Super Adventure come equipped with six-speed transmissions, but the KTM offers a quick-shifter as an option for smoother and more responsive gear changes.

Suspension

The Africa Twin features a fully adjustable Showa suspension system with 45mm inverted forks and a Pro-Link rear shock. The Super Adventure, however, boasts a more sophisticated semi-active WP suspension system with electronically adjustable damping, providing exceptional on-road handling and off-road capability.

Features

Electronics

The Africa Twin comes with a range of electronic features, including a large TFT display, ride-by-wire throttle, and traction control. The Super Adventure, however, takes it a step further with a full suite of electronic aids, including adaptive cruise control, cornering ABS, and a hill-hold function.

Off-Road Capability

The Africa Twin‘s off-road prowess is enhanced by its long-travel suspension, 21-inch front wheel, and dedicated off-road riding modes. The Super Adventure, while not as off-road-focused, still offers impressive off-road capabilities with its adjustable suspension and off-road riding modes.

Comfort

Both the Africa Twin and the Super Adventure offer comfortable ergonomics, with adjustable seats and handlebars. However, the Super Adventure has a more upright riding position and a wider, more plush seat, making it ideal for long-distance riding.

Design

Styling

The Africa Twin’s design is inspired by its legendary Dakar Rally heritage, with sharp angles and aggressive lines. The Super Adventure, on the other hand, has a more modern and aerodynamic design, with a sleek fairing and integrated panniers.

Build Quality

Both the Africa Twin and the Super Adventure are built to the highest standards, with high-quality materials and precise engineering. The Super Adventure, however, has a slight edge in terms of overall fit and finish.

Price

The Honda Africa Twin starts at around $14,499, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure starts at $19,999. The Super Adventure’s higher price tag reflects its more advanced features and performance.

Which One to Choose?

Choosing between the Honda Africa Twin and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize reliability, off-road capability, and value for money, the Africa Twin is an excellent choice. If you seek maximum power, advanced electronics, and the ultimate in on-road and off-road performance, the Super Adventure is the one for you.

The Verdict: A Tale of Two Legends

Both the Honda Africa Twin and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure are exceptional adventure motorcycles that offer riders unparalleled capabilities and experiences. The Africa Twin is a versatile and reliable machine, while the Super Adventure is a technological powerhouse with unmatched performance. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific riding style, budget, and adventure aspirations.

Popular Questions

Q: Which bike is more powerful?
A: The KTM 1290 Super Adventure, with 160 horsepower compared to the Africa Twin‘s 101 horsepower.

Q: Which bike is better off-road?
A: The Honda Africa Twin, due to its longer-travel suspension, 21-inch front wheel, and dedicated off-road riding modes.

Q: Which bike has more electronic features?
A: The KTM 1290 Super Adventure, with adaptive cruise control, cornering ABS, and a hill-hold function.

Q: Which bike is more comfortable for long-distance riding?
A: The KTM 1290 Super Adventure, with its more upright riding position and wider, more plush seat.

Q: Which bike is more expensive?
A: The KTM 1290 Super Adventure, with a starting price of $19,999 compared to the Africa Twin‘s $14,499.