Africa Twin: The bike people know they should get if they're thinking about going off road. 1200GS: The bike people actually get because photos of it get more likes on Facebook. Multistrada: The bike you get when 'going off road' to you means riding onto your front lawn to wash the thing. 1190: You know that weird guy from school who had adhd issues? That's his.
"1200GS: The bike people actually get because photos of it get more likes on Facebook." I'm a BMW fan but seriously, BMW 1200 GS - and GSA - is not the best looking bike compare to Ducati 1200 Enduro and KTM 1290 SA.
I really do not understand why the Africa Twin keeps getting compared to the larger "Adventure" bikes. It really should be compared to bikes like the BMW F800GS and the Triumph Tiger 800 XC.
I have a 1190 adventure R but I agree it should have been the 1090 used for this test or the 1190 r. I enjoyed the film just hasn't got a clue what he's talking about. I can only recommend the 1190r to anyone as its a superb bike
At first this is just what I was thinking, that the F800GS, and Tiger 800 were really more comparable, but if you compare first by weight, you'll see this is the right category, rather than the 100lb lighter 800s.
Agreed. It’s just way too far off the hp/torque of these bikes to be comparable. I have a KTM 1290 SA and I’d be very interested in the Africa Twin if it had the output of the GS - which it should have for a litre engine
Honda needs to sell. All Honda can do is beefing up an existing engine, beef up a CBF chassis and charge you 17k for a glorified dirt bike. Honda doesn't have a comparable bike to compete, that's why.
Sure.. like Aprilia, Guzzi, Piaggio, Gilera, Mv, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Pagani, Maserati, Alfa, Lancia and many (MANY) other. Italian manufacturing industries is second to none and in the motor-sector even more. History proves this, in any race (two or four wheels not change) from Rally to F1 or MotoGP to WSBK. Your country?
And you can get it fixed anywhere without the mechanic staring at you with a reply " I can get a part in 2 -3 weeks if I import it this afternoon" 😛 just give me your credit card details 😄
I grew up around Ducati's all my life and I wouldn't trust em anywhere off the black top. I can't see anyone in the right mind would buy a ducati for offroad.
To my way of thinking, it was a mistake using the standard KTM 1190 instead of the R version, wich has a lot more off road oriented capabilities. Also, the same type of mistake was made by using a standard GS in the comparison, instead of the Adventure model, wich is the direct rival of the 1200 Enduro from Ducati in the Maxi Trail segment. Despite of that, it was a really interesting Shootout. Good filming quality and beautifull landscapes the ones you visited during the making off of the video. Fantastic job!! Congratulations.
I would disagree with the BMW bit, the adv version is exactly the same but ts got that huge 32 ish litre tank, which adds so much weight to it. Without it the GS is very competitive as it feels quite light in the adventure bike world.
I agree with you Marcelo Lopez regarding the KTM, especially when they mentioned the 21 inch front rim on the Honda Africa Twin as an advantage for offroad, compare to the other bikes. Hello!!! the 1190 R version has it too.
Not quite correct. The Adventure has longer travel suspension, specifically for off road use. Plus, it has standard spoked wheels, which are far more practical in absorbing bumps and crashes. Oh yes, and first gear is also lower, which is also better when off road. So they really should have used this version in the test. Cheers.
Test-rode the Africa Twin last weekend. Absolutely awesome bike, I was very impressed. Especially when taken off-road - we did some trails. Handles way lighter than the specs would suggest. You can easily jump it on every bump on a trail, has enough power to spin the tail out of every corner and feels lighter than the typical 800. I own a Triumph 800xc, so won't upgrade just yet, but for anyone looking for a big-engine off-road adventure bike, the AT is definitely my top pick. In fact, it will probably be my next bike if I eventually upgrade.
+Dave Harrison Manual or DCT version? I'm interested in opinions on the auto and looking forward to more US reviews now that the Africa Twin has finally hit the States.
I've ridden the DCT and MT versions and I cant believe i'm going to say this but I would take the DCT without question or reservation. On and off road I really really liked the DCT. My only concern going into it was auto on dirt but it performed way better then expected and allowed me to enjoy the terrain and scenery way more not having to worry about what gear I was in or shifting. Honda substantially raised the bar with the new AT.
+BellOnWheels Honda made it with off road mode and believe it or not the AT learns when you ride. Once you ride it more than a couple of hours it adjust itself to the road/trail your on. It's amazing how smart AT are becoming. But I'm old school so I think I will get the MT just because I'm in control. Well that's just my opinion.
I bought a ducati multistrada enduro. I have no idea what I'm doing. I won't be jumping it anytime soon, but I am definitely enjoying the hell out of it. Equal parts excited and terrified.
+OCJohn Weber really enjoyed the vid, but I'm with you on this. I actually own a BMW 12 GSA LC, so I'd be biased, but even so, I'd expect the ADV R to dominate the off road tests.
More HP? what for? Smaller front wheel? Comparing those bikes without KTM1190AdvR, Triumph1200Explorer or Yamaha1200? It's like "Yea ... we got paid too advertise only those models" ...not fair. Ridden KTM640Adventure (still own it!), KTM990Adventure, KTM1190Adventure, KTM1190AdventureR, BMW1200GS.... but never ridden Multistrada. Thanks to my friends and their bikes i know what i want. And it is KTM990Adventure/KTM640Adventure for offroad tourring. Still waiting too try Honda for a fair comparrsion.
These manufacturers are getting ridiculous now, you don't need 150hp on a ADVENTURE bike! Give me the Honda any day, hell make a CRF750 and it would be perfect, lighter, 80hp and under $10,000 would be superb.
1compaqedr8 The amount of work that bike needs done to it for the places I go, no way, it probably can't be done, it's way too heavy. I ride serious off-road, not logging roads, with a puddle in the middle. I climb inclines that you could never make on a bike like that. Like I said I need/want a bike like a CRF with 750cc, 70+hp and 300lbs. Come on Honda make an Africa Twin 750!! Hell even a 650!
Excellent shootout. I did a test ride of the AT and basically put it up as an ordinary rider with no great skill or experience - I thought the same as you, basically. It is good to see a review from a more experienced rider and reviewer that newer riders can still relate to and understand. The "expert" reviews can leave a lot of us no better informed. Top work.
Oops.. I'm looking for my first Adv..I'm ride dirt bike the one with light and electronic starter.. I like dual purpose, offroad biased..But some fear of drops..and some tied budget but I can go for at,then must handle my wife stings 😊.. now looking towards The KLR 😎..my buddy pushing me for GSA..my heart is with Japanese..confusing..dreaming for the Dream bike..
+stopper90004, yes, the 690 is good option..it's all about dumn money..pushing towards The Green Machine and you will the choice wont be wrong..I'll try somehow for The AT,..may be I'm.lucky and blow a surprise for my self and other Adv buddies..
I do not understand why people would run this FREE informative video with great footage of pro riders on some really good adventure motorcycles down. Just sayin. Ride on!!
Agreed. For it's intended purpose, being able to tackle almost anything thrown at it on a proper adventure ride, the Africa Twin is the clear winner and so was the generation before this one. I see the others more like great touring bikes that are not held back by the road surface changing to the worse, and they are awesome for that too. Their ability to manage long hauls on both tarmac and dirt is unmatched, and it is probably here the BMW shines above the others. I'd def. take the Africa out of these any day, it is just a plain awesome bike, already a classic yet again.
@pariahtizer lol and you call out others for "blind bias" ? let's take a look at your claims shall we? 1. The AT weighs the same wet as the Enduro does dry (btw it is Enduro, not 1190R). 2. As said, the AT is not about power, especially power you can't really use off road. 3. Ducati has not released any official specs about ground clearance on the 1200 Enduro, so you are basicly making up false arguments. 4. On the other hand, Honda has not released specs for the suspension of the AT, so again you make shit up just to make your argument seem more solid than it is. And "inferior" suspension? That is a bold claim, especially since you for one don't know the suspension travel of the AT, and being lighter it doesn't need a super advanced setup anyways (unlike the Enduro). 5. So in nearly every way you made up facts and numbers and really only talked in favor of the Africa Twin. That's a loss for the KTM buddy. I still think the 1200 Enduro is awesome, but for sheer long distance offroad adventuring the AT is where it is at.
In it for what? being elephant heavy? small fuel tank? I don't think Honda has made a new engine for at least 20 years, still their avid fans keep on buying their glorified bikes. The fact is, none of the Japanese bike makers has the courage to make a bike like 1200gs, 1190 or the duke, all they can do is resizing one engine and put it on all their bikes. Same goes with chassis...etc
I agree- Super Tenere had to be included here as it's been out for several years now and is a well regarded bike. The Africa Twin is included and it's essentially a brand new unproven bike that gets gushed over.
I love this review, I like that you were giving the specs and data while showing that amazing footage, that's what I want to see while listening to the data. Very nice!
The AT rides like a bigger bike but can behave like a lighter bike. I never went off road -except when my body departed from the bike into the nearby field :) - but I started with the AT. It is very nimble, amazing engine, keeps up with bigger cc bikes 95% of the time, has the right ergonomics, is beautiful, is very comfy 2 up fully loaded for long rides on motorways and country roads, is a seriously well built machine, and confirms that big cc doesn't rule the roads. To me, Honda and now Yamaha with the new 700 Ténéré are simply the best machines to enjoy more of planet Earth anywhere anytime, allowing to save some money to actually fill the tank and ride.
Nobody can review in a 10 minute video, all the bikes, all the details of 4 motorcycles. But in general it's a good review. My favorite is the Africa Twin and the Ducati price just scares everybody off. Then you have the maintenance price every year and I cannot imagine how it costs to do it in the Ducati. Not only for this, but the AT is the best, because it's the balance of perfection. Would the AT still be the best if it had 250 HP? No. As it is, it's way more than anyone will ever need. There are a few bikes missing here but that should be in a +30 minute video.
My favourite still BMW R1200GSA. Not because of the performances but because it’s BMW R1200GSA. Definitely looking forward to a trip from UK to Thailand end of this year.
Not sure why the Super Tenere is not included and appears to be underrated. Today I went down to my local dealership and sat on the following 2016 bikes back to back. KTM 1190, Honda Africa Twin and Yamaha Super Tenere. I can tell you without any reservation that the feel, fit and finish of the Super Tenere was miles above the other two bikes mentioned. Still not sure why the bike is underrated.
Thank you very much for this video. Got alot of insights on these four bikes. While im planning on getting the Multistrada, Africa Twin of Honda gave me alot of second thoughts. Well done!
The AT is hands down the only bike I would ever consider taking seriously into the bush and exploring on. You aren't going to find any of those other dealers in rural America. Even if they were equally reliable (you can be sure they are not) the AT just makes sense from a dealer support standpoint. I hope to do the TAT before I get old. The AT is the only bike i'm considering at this point.
the best comparison video ever seen in these 4 years. I think after so long, and there are more new maxi trail bikes, another comparison of the new bikes would be good 1200 ~ 1300 cm3 and 700 ~ 900cmm3? I know that a work of such quality is not so cheap to do, but seeing the number of viewers that this comparison has had, I think it is very worthwhile
I have the Pikes Peak 2017, awesome bit of kit on the road, but up in North Yorkshire where the roads are like roller coasters the endurance sett-up comes into its own, air born at 110 mph the thing actually flies beautifully through the air, dry trail riding is good too.
JOST AWESOME VIDEO AND REVIEW. As a biker and video producer, I need to congratulate you folks for the brilliant and excelent work on this video/audio/text production. You guys totally nailed it! Cheers from Brazil. Now you got not a subscriber, but a fan!
+Dean Cook agree with both of you. We tested the bikes that Pirelli had put together for the test. The 1190R would have no doubt yielded a different result.
the Honda beats out all of them when it rides by all the broken down euro bikes on the side of the road. if you want nothing but grief with your bike buy the Ducati, if you want broken final drives and electrical issues buy the BMW, if you want a un comfortable bike that makes a lot of engine noise buy the KTM. If you want reliability, excellent ergonomics , and great usable power at a low price , buy the Honda
Suzuki V-strom 1000 for me please. No hating on honda but i am more of a street rider , so if i want a reliable, comfortable bike with some off-road capability i would take the suzuki. 19inch front wheel feel way better on pavement.
This is what it's about. No hate, just find the bike that suits you best and go nuts! I bought the AT DCT and I love it! I've got a friend who's looking to buy a bike and I think he will like the V-Strom more and is what I'm advising he get because that's the bike I think would suit him best.
I had a chance to get some seat time in on the AT and I enjoyed it quite a bit. It's a big pretty bike. Not as powerful as I'd like, but strong enough. It was a DCT... what I didn't like about it was, it's ultimate goal was to get to 6th gear which caused it to chug quite a bit. I think I'd have to stick with the manual.
Looks like AFRICA TWIN brings infamous TUBE tires...someone out there knows if there are TUBELESS off road wheel/tire assembles for the AFRICA TWIN? In this video, they managed to use the same Pirelli Scorpion Rally for all bikes, tubed or tubeless...
2016 shoot out, wow times have changed from what we consider a good adventure bike. This shoot out spends 90% of its time off road, even have to put dirt tires on to do it. Now you can just go out and get a 790 or t7 and blow this shoot out ta hell. Great we finally have bikes being made for how these bikes seem to get compared.
+Chris Murri Completely agree. The bikes we ride were assembled by Pirelli who made the shootout review possible. the 1190R would have changed the results without a doubt.
Goes to show you're a block head. It was clearly stated that the AT was the only bike in the test that had that wheel setup. Just go nerd rage some more the 1190R wasn't mentioned, ok?
I have a 79 Honda 500xls and a 16 Africa twin and I LOVE both of those bikes. I don't know if they look alike, but I'd agree there is some pedigree going on there. I haven't gotten a pic of them side by side just yet, but it's definitely on my list! Also, the AT rides like a big dirtbike, I haven't gotten to really run it through it's paces yet, but so far not quite as good as the ol' 500 in the dirt. It's damn good though for a bike that's 170lbs heavier!
I kinda want an africa twin and im not even an off road rider. I want to start some off road. mostly logging roads and stuff like that. I am only 5' 8" and am worried some of these bikes might be a but much to handle.
taking the Ducati Enduro version for a comparison with Honda's AT makes sense, taking the more road orientated versions of BMW's GS and KTM's 1190 Adv instead those with bigger front wheel and higher handle bars is comparing apples with oranges.
nice vid.. but, seriously where are all the other adventure motorcycles... SUPER TENERE, TRIUMPH TIGER, KAWASKI, SUZUKI , and the list goes on guys. come on please
Africa Twin: The bike people know they should get if they're thinking about going off road.
1200GS: The bike people actually get because photos of it get more likes on Facebook.
Multistrada: The bike you get when 'going off road' to you means riding onto your front lawn to wash the thing.
1190: You know that weird guy from school who had adhd issues? That's his.
I know why your name is Jesus Christ... Because when people read you ridiculous comments, they say "Jesus Christ, what's this guy thinking?" !
LeadingEdgeTec Lol. Are you an 1190 rider?
holy hell that's why I love KTM
"1200GS: The bike people actually get because photos of it get more likes on Facebook."
I'm a BMW fan but seriously, BMW 1200 GS - and GSA - is not the best looking bike compare to Ducati 1200 Enduro and KTM 1290 SA.
Jesus Christ Ukrainian roads are always-off road
I really do not understand why the Africa Twin keeps getting compared to the larger "Adventure" bikes. It really should be compared to bikes like the BMW F800GS and the Triumph Tiger 800 XC.
I have a 1190 adventure R but I agree it should have been the 1090 used for this test or the 1190 r. I enjoyed the film just hasn't got a clue what he's talking about. I can only recommend the 1190r to anyone as its a superb bike
They are paying money to do so...
At first this is just what I was thinking, that the F800GS, and Tiger 800 were really more comparable, but if you compare first by weight, you'll see this is the right category, rather than the 100lb lighter 800s.
Agreed. It’s just way too far off the hp/torque of these bikes to be comparable.
I have a KTM 1290 SA and I’d be very interested in the Africa Twin if it had the output of the GS - which it should have for a litre engine
Honda needs to sell. All Honda can do is beefing up an existing engine, beef up a CBF chassis and charge you 17k for a glorified dirt bike. Honda doesn't have a comparable bike to compete, that's why.
The difference between the Duc and AT is $8300! Bet the Honda is cheaper to maintain and repair as well...
^this
Sure.. like Aprilia, Guzzi, Piaggio, Gilera, Mv, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Pagani, Maserati, Alfa, Lancia and many (MANY) other.
Italian manufacturing industries is second to none and in the motor-sector even more.
History proves this, in any race (two or four wheels not change) from Rally to F1 or MotoGP to WSBK.
Your country?
+lazios reliability son
And you can get it fixed anywhere without the mechanic staring at you with a reply " I can get a part in 2 -3 weeks if I import it this afternoon" 😛 just give me your credit card details 😄
I grew up around Ducati's all my life and I wouldn't trust em anywhere off the black top. I can't see anyone in the right mind would buy a ducati for offroad.
The CRF is the only one I would spend my own money on.
To my way of thinking, it was a mistake using the standard KTM 1190 instead of the R version, wich has a lot more off road oriented capabilities. Also, the same type of mistake was made by using a standard GS in the comparison, instead of the Adventure model, wich is the direct rival of the 1200 Enduro from Ducati in the Maxi Trail segment. Despite of that, it was a really interesting Shootout. Good filming quality and beautifull landscapes the ones you visited during the making off of the video. Fantastic job!! Congratulations.
I would disagree with the BMW bit, the adv version is exactly the same but ts got that huge 32 ish litre tank, which adds so much weight to it. Without it the GS is very competitive as it feels quite light in the adventure bike world.
I agree with you Marcelo Lopez regarding the KTM, especially when they mentioned the 21 inch front rim on the Honda Africa Twin as an advantage for offroad, compare to the other bikes. Hello!!! the 1190 R version has it too.
Not quite correct. The Adventure has longer travel suspension, specifically for off road use. Plus, it has standard spoked wheels, which are far more practical in absorbing bumps and crashes. Oh yes, and first gear is also lower, which is also better when off road. So they really should have used this version in the test.
Cheers.
I completly agree with you. I think the KTM 1190 Adventure R would dominate this shootout.
Exactly!
Test-rode the Africa Twin last weekend. Absolutely awesome bike, I was very impressed. Especially when taken off-road - we did some trails. Handles way lighter than the specs would suggest. You can easily jump it on every bump on a trail, has enough power to spin the tail out of every corner and feels lighter than the typical 800. I own a Triumph 800xc, so won't upgrade just yet, but for anyone looking for a big-engine off-road adventure bike, the AT is definitely my top pick. In fact, it will probably be my next bike if I eventually upgrade.
Don’t do it.
I bought a CRF1000L Africa Twin - Its way better than I hoped for! Try it off road, stunning.
+Dave Harrison Manual or DCT version? I'm interested in opinions on the auto and looking forward to more US reviews now that the Africa Twin has finally hit the States.
+Chris Zinner manual for me, DCT excellent but another 10kgs
I've ridden the DCT and MT versions and I cant believe i'm going to say this but I would take the DCT without question or reservation. On and off road I really really liked the DCT. My only concern going into it was auto on dirt but it performed way better then expected and allowed me to enjoy the terrain and scenery way more not having to worry about what gear I was in or shifting. Honda substantially raised the bar with the new AT.
+BellOnWheels Honda made it with off road mode and believe it or not the AT learns when you ride. Once you ride it more than a couple of hours it adjust itself to the road/trail your on. It's amazing how smart AT are becoming. But I'm old school so I think I will get the MT just because I'm in control. Well that's just my opinion.
I bought a ducati multistrada enduro. I have no idea what I'm doing. I won't be jumping it anytime soon, but I am definitely enjoying the hell out of it. Equal parts excited and terrified.
Weird comparison! Seems like testing the KTM 1190 ADV R would have made more sense!
+OCJohn Weber really enjoyed the vid, but I'm with you on this. I actually own a BMW 12 GSA LC, so I'd be biased, but even so, I'd expect the ADV R to dominate the off road tests.
posted the same question before reading this post
that's exactly what i thought...................
More HP? what for? Smaller front wheel? Comparing those bikes without KTM1190AdvR, Triumph1200Explorer or Yamaha1200? It's like "Yea ... we got paid too advertise only those models" ...not fair. Ridden KTM640Adventure (still own it!), KTM990Adventure, KTM1190Adventure, KTM1190AdventureR, BMW1200GS.... but never ridden Multistrada. Thanks to my friends and their bikes i know what i want. And it is KTM990Adventure/KTM640Adventure for offroad tourring. Still waiting too try Honda for a fair comparrsion.
Would have been head to head with the AT had they gone with the 1190R. They wasted the ktm slot as far as I'm concerned.
Thank you for this awesome review. Unlike other reviews you guys leveled the playing field with the tires. Nice!
These manufacturers are getting ridiculous now, you don't need 150hp on a ADVENTURE bike! Give me the Honda any day, hell make a CRF750 and it would be perfect, lighter, 80hp and under $10,000 would be superb.
finally somebody who gets it!
Honda has the NC700X. IT is what you want ... but only 7.5k.
MrLalasd
That's a pig, lol
What about honda cb500x?
1compaqedr8
The amount of work that bike needs done to it for the places I go, no way, it probably can't be done, it's way too heavy. I ride serious off-road, not logging roads, with a puddle in the middle. I climb inclines that you could never make on a bike like that. Like I said I need/want a bike like a CRF with 750cc, 70+hp and 300lbs. Come on Honda make an Africa Twin 750!! Hell even a 650!
Excellent shootout. I did a test ride of the AT and basically put it up as an ordinary rider with no great skill or experience - I thought the same as you, basically.
It is good to see a review from a more experienced rider and reviewer that newer riders can still relate to and understand. The "expert" reviews can leave a lot of us no better informed. Top work.
Oops.. I'm looking for my first Adv..I'm ride dirt bike the one with light and electronic starter.. I like dual purpose, offroad biased..But some fear of drops..and some tied budget but I can go for at,then must handle my wife stings 😊.. now looking towards The KLR 😎..my buddy pushing me for GSA..my heart is with Japanese..confusing..dreaming for the Dream bike..
+SoloRide ZX , you need the KTM 690 Enduro. light, fast and amazing off road. Otherwise, get the Africa Twin… insanely good value foe money.
+stopper90004, yes, the 690 is good option..it's all about dumn money..pushing towards The Green Machine and you will the choice wont be wrong..I'll try somehow for The AT,..may be I'm.lucky and blow a surprise for my self and other Adv buddies..
Africa Twin looks like a bike taken straight from DAKAR!!
I do not understand why people would run this FREE informative video with great footage of pro riders on some really good adventure motorcycles down. Just sayin. Ride on!!
One of the best reviews videos that i have ever seen !!! Congratulations !!!
Why does nobody test the KTM 1190 Adventure R model versus the new Honda CRF1000L ? :(
This is the real fight ! ;)
You could almost buy two Africa Twins, one for you & one for your buddy, for the price of one Ducati. Crazy!
claims to be the ultimate Adv motorcycle shootout...doesnt include KTM 1190 Adventure R ... makes sense...
Seems like a KTM Adventure R would have handily won this thing. I wont hold my breath waiting to see a new Multi anywhere in the dirt
Honda was never in it for the speed. It's all about everything else
And that's where the Africa Twin stands out c:
Agreed. For it's intended purpose, being able to tackle almost anything thrown at it on a proper adventure ride, the Africa Twin is the clear winner and so was the generation before this one. I see the others more like great touring bikes that are not held back by the road surface changing to the worse, and they are awesome for that too. Their ability to manage long hauls on both tarmac and dirt is unmatched, and it is probably here the BMW shines above the others. I'd def. take the Africa out of these any day, it is just a plain awesome bike, already a classic yet again.
@pariahtizer lol and you call out others for "blind bias" ? let's take a look at your claims shall we?
1. The AT weighs the same wet as the Enduro does dry (btw it is Enduro, not 1190R).
2. As said, the AT is not about power, especially power you can't really use off road.
3. Ducati has not released any official specs about ground clearance on the 1200 Enduro, so you are basicly making up false arguments.
4. On the other hand, Honda has not released specs for the suspension of the AT, so again you make shit up just to make your argument seem more solid than it is. And "inferior" suspension? That is a bold claim, especially since you for one don't know the suspension travel of the AT, and being lighter it doesn't need a super advanced setup anyways (unlike the Enduro).
5. So in nearly every way you made up facts and numbers and really only talked in favor of the Africa Twin. That's a loss for the KTM buddy.
I still think the 1200 Enduro is awesome, but for sheer long distance offroad adventuring the AT is where it is at.
biased much, pot kettle black KTM guy
In it for what? being elephant heavy? small fuel tank? I don't think Honda has made a new engine for at least 20 years, still their avid fans keep on buying their glorified bikes. The fact is, none of the Japanese bike makers has the courage to make a bike like 1200gs, 1190 or the duke, all they can do is resizing one engine and put it on all their bikes. Same goes with chassis...etc
Awesome comparison! Also, glad you shoot it in my hometown!
Nice review, but I think it´s time to update the shootout to include the KTM 1290 R, Multistrada Enduro Pro, and GS 1200 Rallye
Great review, pros and cons described, same tyres to even up, and clear favourites with reasons. Thanks.
I agree- Super Tenere had to be included here as it's been out for several years now and is a well regarded bike. The Africa Twin is included and it's essentially a brand new unproven bike that gets gushed over.
I love this review, I like that you were giving the specs and data while showing that amazing footage, that's what I want to see while listening to the data. Very nice!
You took a ktm street version for the test, why not a hayabusa also?
Excellent fact and objective-based opinion reviews of the bikes! Really appreciate these types of videos, thank you!
The AT rides like a bigger bike but can behave like a lighter bike. I never went off road -except when my body departed from the bike into the nearby field :) - but I started with the AT. It is very nimble, amazing engine, keeps up with bigger cc bikes 95% of the time, has the right ergonomics, is beautiful, is very comfy 2 up fully loaded for long rides on motorways and country roads, is a seriously well built machine, and confirms that big cc doesn't rule the roads. To me, Honda and now Yamaha with the new 700 Ténéré are simply the best machines to enjoy more of planet Earth anywhere anytime, allowing to save some money to actually fill the tank and ride.
where is triumph Tiger/Explorer ?
no Explorer & no tenere 😯 no fair....
This.
they would have placed last
Every bike mentioned that wasn't on this comparison you say "Would have placed last". Just...stop.
That bike is no match with these
Nobody can review in a 10 minute video, all the bikes, all the details of 4 motorcycles. But in general it's a good review. My favorite is the Africa Twin and the Ducati price just scares everybody off. Then you have the maintenance price every year and I cannot imagine how it costs to do it in the Ducati. Not only for this, but the AT is the best, because it's the balance of perfection. Would the AT still be the best if it had 250 HP? No. As it is, it's way more than anyone will ever need. There are a few bikes missing here but that should be in a +30 minute video.
Welcome back to the world of video! Nice to see you again.
great work, correct conclusion as well ;)
This is the video that I was looking for.Excelent video.
The power figures quoted are at the crank and not the rear wheel. Subtract about 10% for rear wheel power.
My favourite still BMW R1200GSA. Not because of the performances but because it’s BMW R1200GSA. Definitely looking forward to a trip from UK to Thailand end of this year.
glad to see somebody take these offroad! great review
1:02 "I need to check the air pressure in my tires.... someone bring me an air gauge with the world's largest dial!"
Those jumps are blowing me away
Wish you had a Super Tenéré in this test too. Really thinking about getting one. Not sure how it stacks up.
Excellent reporting, I want to see more reviews of this quality!
Bellissimo video e complimenti. Che bello vedere la mia terra (e la mia moto Africa Twin.
Bravi
What an informative review. Love the shoot outs. Kudos to everyone involved. The Ducati will be mine!
Given the torque and hp of the Honda, it seems like a Triumph Tiger 800xcx should also be in this mix.
And the new Tiger Explorer, which was not even mentioned.
Brillant video guys!! Thank you for the real and honest test!
Fantastic professional review - excellent work.
Not sure why the Super Tenere is not included and appears to be underrated. Today I went down to my local dealership and sat on the following 2016 bikes back to back. KTM 1190, Honda Africa Twin and Yamaha Super Tenere. I can tell you without any reservation that the feel, fit and finish of the Super Tenere was miles above the other two bikes mentioned. Still not sure why the bike is underrated.
Thank you very much for this video. Got alot of insights on these four bikes. While im planning on getting the Multistrada, Africa Twin of Honda gave me alot of second thoughts. Well done!
You should of had the KTM 1190R. The standard version is more of a road bike.
The AT is hands down the only bike I would ever consider taking seriously into the bush and exploring on. You aren't going to find any of those other dealers in rural America. Even if they were equally reliable (you can be sure they are not) the AT just makes sense from a dealer support standpoint.
I hope to do the TAT before I get old. The AT is the only bike i'm considering at this point.
loving my 2016 ducati enduro.. it's a beast on and off road.. went from panigale 1199 to the enduro and i'm a happy camper
What's the reliability
the best comparison video ever seen in these 4 years.
I think after so long, and there are more new maxi trail bikes, another comparison of the new bikes would be good
1200 ~ 1300 cm3 and 700 ~ 900cmm3?
I know that a work of such quality is not so cheap to do, but seeing the number of viewers that this comparison has had, I think it is very worthwhile
I'm surprised you guys didn't include the versys 650LT and 1000LT
@ 3:45 and 4:46 - DAM!
Those guys can RiDE!
Correct me if I'm wrong. The equivalent of BMW GS1200 in Honda is Crosstourer 1200. Not Africa twin.
I have the Pikes Peak 2017, awesome bit of kit on the road, but up in North Yorkshire where the roads are like roller coasters the endurance sett-up comes into its own, air born at 110 mph the thing actually flies beautifully through the air, dry trail riding is good too.
Good review and video but what about the Yamaha Super Tenere?
NOW the Africa Twin makes sence 😉
JOST AWESOME VIDEO AND REVIEW. As a biker and video producer, I need to congratulate you folks for the brilliant and excelent work on this video/audio/text production. You guys totally nailed it! Cheers from Brazil. Now you got not a subscriber, but a fan!
Great video but why the standard KTM not the R?
+Dean Cook agree with both of you. We tested the bikes that Pirelli had put together for the test. The 1190R would have no doubt yielded a different result.
Thanks for clarifying that you were bound by what was provided. Any plans on doing a 1190R to AT comparison?
the Honda beats out all of them when it rides by all the broken down euro bikes on the side of the road. if you want nothing but grief with your bike buy the Ducati, if you want broken final drives and electrical issues buy the BMW, if you want a un comfortable bike that makes a lot of engine noise buy the KTM. If you want reliability, excellent ergonomics , and great usable power at a low price , buy the Honda
Engine noise and uncomfortable KTM? Have you even touched one? Don't talk nonsense.
I have ridden the 1190 and 1290. hated both of them. but each to their own
Sooo...you a Honda salesman? 🙄😄
Suzuki V-strom 1000 for me please. No hating on honda but i am more of a street rider , so if i want a reliable, comfortable bike with some off-road capability i would take the suzuki. 19inch front wheel feel way better on pavement.
This is what it's about. No hate, just find the bike that suits you best and go nuts! I bought the AT DCT and I love it! I've got a friend who's looking to buy a bike and I think he will like the V-Strom more and is what I'm advising he get because that's the bike I think would suit him best.
really good comparison...thank you
I had a chance to get some seat time in on the AT and I enjoyed it quite a bit. It's a big pretty bike. Not as powerful as I'd like, but strong enough. It was a DCT... what I didn't like about it was, it's ultimate goal was to get to 6th gear which caused it to chug quite a bit. I think I'd have to stick with the manual.
Looks like AFRICA TWIN brings infamous TUBE tires...someone out there knows if there are TUBELESS off road wheel/tire assembles for the AFRICA TWIN? In this video, they managed to use the same Pirelli Scorpion Rally for all bikes, tubed or tubeless...
did not include yamaha super tenere world crosser
I think that the Africa Twin falls more into the same category as BMW F800GS and Triumph Tiger 800.
Great video, i really love ducati and africa twin...!
Is 270 crank parallel a new trend?
Few bikes with it now
Motorcycle shootout? Maybe half of a shootout. What about the Yamaha Super Tenere and the Triumph Tiger Explorer?
They're ALL great bikes. The Africa Twin is the one that grabs me, though. Less power, but I appreciate off road capability.
2016 shoot out, wow times have changed from what we consider a good adventure bike. This shoot out spends 90% of its time off road, even have to put dirt tires on to do it. Now you can just go out and get a 790 or t7 and blow this shoot out ta hell. Great we finally have bikes being made for how these bikes seem to get compared.
excellent review, more of those please
where is the super tenere, vstrom, and triumph tiger in this test??
Great test! Please test ktm 1290 Super Adventure.
I still love my BMW R1200 GS Adventure.
What about the KTM Adventure R.....have you seen the Chris Birch vids....scary good off road.
what about any of the triumph tigers? or ktm super adventure?
Great video other than one glaring mistake... what were you thinking including the standard KTM Adventure and not the R model in this comparison?
+Chris Murri Completely agree. The bikes we ride were assembled by Pirelli who made the shootout review possible. the 1190R would have changed the results without a doubt.
Goes to show you're a block head. It was clearly stated that the AT was the only bike in the test that had that wheel setup. Just go nerd rage some more the 1190R wasn't mentioned, ok?
Hi
What is the best adventure bikes and why?
Where is triumph tiger 1200 explorer? i love that bike
And where the Triumph explorer is in the middle of that?!
Missing the GSA in this test. And uhm, off-roading without spoked wheels....
What about the tiger xca or the tiger explorer?
How does the BMW GS have an advantage if you drop it? You drop it exactly on its engine.
Africa twin looks like my old 1979 honda 500 xls. With the large front wheel and smaller rear wheel the set up is so much fun in the dirt.
I have a 79 Honda 500xls and a 16 Africa twin and I LOVE both of those bikes. I don't know if they look alike, but I'd agree there is some pedigree going on there. I haven't gotten a pic of them side by side just yet, but it's definitely on my list!
Also, the AT rides like a big dirtbike, I haven't gotten to really run it through it's paces yet, but so far not quite as good as the ol' 500 in the dirt. It's damn good though for a bike that's 170lbs heavier!
Ok where is the 1190r, seriously?
what adventure bike is good for short legs?
Please do with Africa twin 2020
I kinda want an africa twin and im not even an off road rider. I want to start some off road. mostly logging roads and stuff like that. I am only 5' 8" and am worried some of these bikes might be a but much to handle.
No Guzzi, Aprillia, Vstrom, or Super Tenere?
Or Triumph Explorer.
taking the Ducati Enduro version for a comparison with Honda's AT makes sense, taking the more road orientated versions of BMW's GS and KTM's 1190 Adv instead those with bigger front wheel and higher handle bars is comparing apples with oranges.
These aren't real Adventure bikes, they are more of a "hey lets go to Starbucks" kind of bikes.
+Honey Badger Studio I'm messing with you guys. They are all three capable bikes. It doesn't really matter what you ride.
.
"Ingenious 270 degree " you mean like the Triumph Bonneville and Thunderbirds? For years...
why you didn't include triumph tiger!!!
Parallel twin with 270° degree ignition offset - what a great invention...
brought up by Yamaha on the TDM850 :-P
Did you have trouble with heat coming off the KTM? Mine is so hot it will burn your legs at times.
What about the Triumph Tiger XCx or even the Explorer series?
truly appreciate the review, thanks. :)
Excellent report, thanks.
nice vid.. but, seriously where are all the other adventure motorcycles... SUPER TENERE, TRIUMPH TIGER, KAWASKI, SUZUKI , and the list goes on guys. come on please
why did they not take the adv r for trails?
the africa twin is actually designated crf1000L, not cf1000L like you called it..
No triumph or Aprilia capo rally? What about the Stelvio?
+Tyler Flory Would have loved to compare some other machines. But we tested the ones that our friends at Pirelli had assembled.
should' tested the super tenure instead of the AT, which belongs with mid weight ADV bikes
Enjoyed the video! What about the Yamaha Super Tenere?