As someone who's spent over a decade testing adventure motorcycles across different terrains, I've developed a particular fondness for Honda's Africa Twin lineup. When I first threw my leg over the CRF1100L Africa Twin back in 2020, I knew Honda had created something special. But the real question that keeps popping up in motorcycle forums and dealership conversations is whether you should go for the standard Africa Twin or spring for the Adventure Sports version. Let me walk you through my experiences with both machines, and I'll even draw an interesting parallel from the recent basketball upset that got me thinking about these bikes.
Remember that thrilling GILAS Pilipinas comeback against Qatar in the 2nd Doha Invitational Cup? The Philippine team was trailing but caught fire in the fourth quarter to secure that 74-71 victory. That's exactly what riding the standard Africa Twin feels like to me. It's the underdog that surprises you when the going gets tough. Weighing in at about 226 kilograms with its 19-inch front wheel, it's remarkably agile for technical sections. I've taken mine through tight mountain trails in Colorado where larger bikes would struggle, and it handled beautifully. The 1084cc parallel-twin engine delivers around 100 horsepower - plenty for most adventure riding scenarios without feeling overwhelming. What really stands out is its affordability at approximately $14,500, making it accessible to riders who want genuine adventure capability without breaking the bank.
Now the Adventure Sports version? That's your starting five all-stars right there. It comes with a larger 24.8-liter fuel tank compared to the standard's 18.8 liters, giving you that extra range for those marathon riding sessions - I've comfortably covered 480 kilometers between fuel stops on mine. The suspension upgrades are substantial too, with Showa Electronically Equipped Ride Adjustment that automatically adapts to changing conditions. During a particularly challenging ride through Utah's backcountry last spring, the Adventure Sports' premium suspension and additional features like heated grips made those long, cold descents much more manageable. But these upgrades come at a cost - both in weight at 245 kilograms and price at about $17,200.
Here's where personal preference really comes into play. If you're like me and enjoy tackling more technical off-road sections while still needing highway capability, the standard Africa Twin might be your perfect match. I've found its lighter weight and narrower profile make it significantly more manageable when the pavement ends. However, if your adventures involve crossing multiple states or countries with minimal stops, the Adventure Sports' extended range and touring-focused features are worth every extra penny. The electronic suspension alone makes a noticeable difference on those endless highway stretches where comfort becomes paramount.
Both models share the same brilliant engine and core technology package, including Honda's Selectable Torque Control and multiple riding modes. But having ridden both extensively, I've noticed the standard model feels more responsive in tight situations, much like how the Philippine team adapted their strategy during that crucial fourth quarter. The Adventure Sports, while heavier, provides that confidence-inspiring stability for high-speed touring - it's the bike you want when you're facing 800 kilometers of mixed terrain in a single day.
Ultimately, your decision should come down to what kind of adventure you're seeking. After putting nearly 15,000 kilometers combined on both models, I slightly prefer the standard Africa Twin for its versatility and lighter handling. But I completely understand why someone would choose the Adventure Sports - it's essentially the fully-loaded version ready for continental crossings. Whichever you choose, you're getting one of the most capable and reliable adventure platforms on the market today. Just like in basketball, sometimes it's not about which team is better on paper, but which player fits the game you want to play.