BMW R 1300 GS Adventure vs Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sport ES DCT

Two heavyweight titans of the adventure motorcycle world are facing off right here in the garage! In this episode, we’re pitting Germany’s top-tier BMW R 1300 GS Adventure (GSA) against Japan’s precision-engineered Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT. Whether you’re plotting a cross-country trek on U.S. highways or looking to tackle the rugged backcountry trails of the American West, choosing between these two premium ADV machines is no easy feat. We break down the specs, the pricing, and the engineering marvels that set them apart. The Spec Breakdown BMW R 1300 GS Adventure ($29,000 as tested): Powered by BMW's tried-and-true 1,300cc liquid-cooled boxer twin engine, pumping out a whopping 130 horsepower and over 98 lb-ft of torque. It features the Triple Black styling package, Headlight Pro, an electronically adjustable windshield, and a massive 7.9-gallon fuel tank. Plus, those low-slung, powered panniers keep your center of gravity right where you want it. Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports ES DCT ($20,100 approx. with panniers): Driven by a slim, single-overhead-cam 1,084cc parallel twin engine delivering 92 horsepower and over 70 lb-ft of torque. It comes packed with Honda's legendary Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) for seamless, clutchless acceleration, electronic suspension adjustment, a 6.6-gallon tank, and beautiful gold cross-spoke wheels with a proper off-road-ready rear setup. Key Battles: The Transmissions: BMW's slick 6-speed with Gear Shift Assist Pro vs. Honda's sports-car-like automated DCT. The Suspension: BMW’s unique Telelever front end (hello, ultra-light steering!) vs. Honda’s electronically adjustable conventional inverted fork. Final Drive: Maintenance-free BMW shaft drive vs. the lighter, classic Honda chain drive. The Scale: At 593 lbs, the BMW is a big boy, but the Honda isn't exactly a featherweight at 560 lbs—though its parallel-twin design makes for a much slimmer midsection. Which adventure motorcycle deserves a spot in your garage? Is the BMW worth the $9,000 premium, or does the tech-loaded Africa Twin take the crown? Sound off in the comments below! Special Thanks to Our Supporters This shootout episode is supported by SHOEI Helmets and their RF-SR full-face street bike helmet. Engineered with Japanese precision, the RF-SR offers an exceptional fit, entry-level affordability, and is easily one of the quietest helmets we’ve ever tested. 👉 Learn more at shoei-helmets.com 👉 Shop for yours at speedaddicts.com