BMW R1250GSA vs. Honda Africa Twin. Which one is better? In-depth Review
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 พ.ค. 2020
- The most wanted bikes in the Adventure segments. Both the GS and the Africa Twin are already legendary names and they got better and better every generation, getting closer to perfection. Meet the R1250GSA and the CRF1100L Africa Twin in the Adventure Sports version, with DCT and ES.
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The prices:
BMW R1250GS (top spec): €21,500
Honda Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT ES: €18,990
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Honda Africa seems quiet... I like that bike!
Beemers are the quietest ...
I love Honda Africa twn
África twin 🙋♂️
RIP Cristian. We will miss you.
what s happen with him ?
@@TrucNguyen-cd9es He had an accident on his GS and sadly did not survive the crash.
@@SWTrailsAndWheels Oh god really?
@@paulyflyer8154 yes, sadly true.
So sad 😢 to hear
Good video and I agree with what is said. As a 2020 ATAS DCT owner here are some of my views:
DCT is something you have to learn to use properly. It takes some practise and is really good once you know how to use it. YMMV
ATAS DCT with all the options is $6000 less here in Canada than a GSA. (GSA is the proper comparison. GS has less fuel, less range, so less weight... but still more than the ATAS.)
You are totally correct about needing the wind deflectors for the upper and lower parts. Once those are installed the wind protection is good. (Not amazing but good.)
There are 3 reasons I bought a Honda ATAS DCT over a BMW 1250 GSA:
1. BMW dealer near me treated me like shit last year when shopping around. Like really bad.
2. Every Honda anything I own is built to high standards and on the rare occasion I need to fix something on it... I can get parts and those parts are much less expensive than BMW parts.
3. ATAS is more than $6000 Canadian dollars less out the door than the GSA with the same equipment.
IMO Honda fixed the major things that needed fixing on the AT in 2020. I am glad I waited for it. I love my ATAS DCT. (I have #5 in Canada according to the VIN and was the first one in my region to get one.)
still having your africa twin today? any regrets?
@@felixlechat1780 still going strong. No regrets. Puts a smile on my face every ride. Even learning more and more including off-road.
@@JeffCodlingit's crazy how time flies. I'm glad to hear from you. I think honda wins over bmw because they guys make bikes for enthusiasts!
Brilliant and in depth comparison. Thanks for the awesome video guys 👌
You guys make great videos , informative and entertaining.
What an excellent review- you give us all the information we need: weather protection, off road vs onroad, seat comfort, electronics, how the wheel size impacts on and off road, gearing, pricing. Really great - thank you!
I get serious fps russia vibes when I hear that man speak.
Miss that channel... :(
lol hahaha
Why does it matter? Here for Motorcycle review, not a date
@@michaelj.kastner5165 Its something that jumped out at me. Is noticing things something bad to you?
Hah😂
The moving shots are so good on your videos. I love seeing the bikes in action rather than just from the rider pov. Excellent videos as always
Thanks.
Thank you for the review. You both do a great job and honest reviews. Love the way you do the videos and comparing bikes. Keep up the good work.
Haven't even started watching this video... but I know this Video will put so many Questions to rest, especially since I've been contemplating between these 2 motorcycles for the LONGEST TIME!
Bravo .... you guys are Magnificent 🙌
Wow .... Are you guys mind readers?!! I have searched and searched for Videos all over TH-cam that could address the COMFORT of the seats and NONE of videos have really covered this aspect ... because a bike can have All the Power / Handling / Electronics but it all means Nothing if the seat isnt Comfortable for a Cross Country Ride! Excellent Job guys ... I'm glad you gave a real time review rather than just stating some Figures !
Great video guys, keep going like this, big fan!
Finally...it seems this topic is taboo in the industry! I haven't watched the review, but trust DriveMag review and thank you for taking the lead on this ADV question!
Taboo because no one wants to dare question the supremacy of BMW.
(Sarcasm)
Honda forever.
Not sure which is better but after 3 Gs's from 2010/2013/2015 I am now the proud owner of a manual black/gold Africa twin crf1100 Adventure sports - I have the tall seat, wind protectors and it's not too bad comfort wise. I got free alloy panniers and I saved £7000 compared to a GS!
Great choice!
Why not dct?
Hi MagicAyrton, what moved you to take a decision like that? as of now I am the owner of a GS 800 and I am evaluating booth bikes the 1250GS and the ATAS with ES suspension, your opinion could be very valuable for me. Thanks.
Extremely visual dynamic footage beautifully presented. You guys keep raising the bar. Love my 2019 AT but can be a handful in slow tricky terrain because of seat height.
RIP Cristian Predoi. I like all your videos
AWSOME REVIEW! Great job guys!
these comparison videos are great. the GoldWing vs K16 was great as well. keep them coming.
Thank you for the BEST review of these 2 bikes I have ever seen. Please do more comparative reviews
Great video guys, you are getting better and better, 👍🏻 Also your skills in offroad improved noticeably (although, if I may... keep those elbows up😉!). Good all around review, and reasoneable conclusions I deem 😊
Thank for the awesome comparison, and that kick ass beat in the video, freaking brilliant!
I would have to say the biggest factor i looked at before purchasing my AT vs the BMW was dealer availability! In North America, Honda dealerships are a dime a dozen where as BMW dealerships are very few and far apart, The same for KTM! I myself was looking at getting a Ducati Multistrada but it's almost a 5 hour round trip drive for servicing which I'm definitely not going to do! To date I'm very happy with the AT and will keep it for many years to come!
Great point!
Hi Kerry whats your experience with the bike after 3 yrs of use?
First…Great videos guys. Keep them coming. With that said…I’m a fan of both bikes and currently own the AT DCT. Versus you “HAVE” to turn the traction control off, once you know you would simply…Turn the TC off. No big deal at all. What you don’t like is simply what you have to get to know. Nothing more. The DCT is completely different if you’re not used to it. However it is very intuitive. In the conditions you’re riding in though it goes back to not a failure or weakness of the bike. Everyone knows the GS. Africa Twin DCT though, you do need to allow yourself an opportunity to get acquainted as it is completely different that anything most riders are used to. Switch to full manual and the immediate on/demand shifts quickly win you over. With the AT DCT it’s all about familiarity as it is completely different than anything most of us are used to. Not a failure of the bike. Rather, a massive leap in ADV bike technology that requires getting familiar with. I’ve ridden mine in the CO backcountry and as a daily commuter and love it in both conditions. My two cents.
Brillliant production gents! Very professional! Happy to see my GSA in a comparison review for a change! Can’t believe it’s three years since Montenegro. Keep up the good work! 👍🏻
You liked Montenegro? Thats my country. I saw video. Awesome.
Lol, do you think this is comparison?? This is a sponsor BMW channel
Great comparison video, well done!
I like this video, moments of them just riding and looking at the beautiful bikes in motion, not like some channel where you just see first person riding, then you get the quiet coffee break moments where these two just talk about the bikes qualities good/bad. Excellent video guys, I really like it!
Glad you enjoyed!
2.19 wrong guys, 1P = most power, 1EB = most engine brake.
In gravel, he is the most friendly, to be not nervous.
HondaPro Kevin correct...
That´s what they said
@@TheSpainy wrong! Power level 4 = least powerful
Engine Brake level 3 = least engine braking when you close the throttle.
It's unbelievable they give us totally wrong information!
They just ride dealer bike.
Long-term reliability and cost of ownership make the Honda far cheaper in the long run. At least here in the US, it is cheaper out the door, too.
Certainly not in the UK.
@@terryjohnbaker agree, overpriced, think their taking the piss with prices in the UK!
In the US, BMW dealerships are few and far between. Honda dealerships are everywhere and less expensive to repair.
In America the BMW is 30% more but just looking at the two bikes it is understandable.
All European automotives are money pit and not really reliable just as how cars made in Detroit USA, they did it on purpose and now they're gone. Everyone know only Asian brands are reliable even iPhones are Made in China only Designed in California.
I congratulate you on this wonderfull video!!
You guys are awesome, I have not seen any new content. Thanks
Got the new Africa Adv. Sports DCT in April after full three days of a long test ride on the GSA. While the GSA has a better seat and looks better, the Africa is a much better ride once you got comfortable with the control system. A great honest video, good job guys.
Appreciate that info-Go Honda
I agree with you on the Honda but let's be honest of how much off-road riding we really do ... If it is gonna be lots of off-road I would rather swing my leg over a street legal KTM and wait for both with two coffees in at my destination... However, you have to admit that the comfort on multi day touring with only some off-road passages is clearly on the GS side... It is an ADV Goldwing so to say... and we love the big Beemer for it... and if cost of ownership is a big factor go Africa Twin...
@@da72ma I agree. Let's say I wouldn't kick any of the three mentioned models out of my bed... :-)
How is the ride better Asaf? I rode the GSA and I absolutely didn't like the feeling of the ride.
"GSA has a better seat and looks better"
>> Yeah it has a better seat but looks like a bloated cow!
Hello from Bolivia! Nice video. Your terrain is similar to ours in the La Paz high lands at 3000-5000 meters above sea level. Thanks for making them. Keep up the good work!
Salar de uyuni good 👌
Excellent review and awesome visuals to really make me want to get out there and ride!!!
One of your best review video guys .Realy profesional level .The music is also good choise .I have seen many time this review but i am keep watching because i am realy enjoying how it is done .Nice job 😉👍
HONDA 👍
After 17 years with BMW on GS’s.... I made the change to the 2020 AT AS manual. Never look back! I love it. On and off road. Far more connected, nimble and lighter. ... true about the seat though 😉
Only negative.... just not enough after market parts (yet)
Thanks for this comment! I currently have an A2 license (Max 47HP) And next year I get my A license (Full Power) and I am really into the high and all-roads like GS, ATAS and SuperAdventure 1290. But Your comment made my list a little shorter! :) Also, I really love the tri-color look! It's so beautiful!
Here is the biggest _problem_ (involving time & money) between the two bikes that _everyone_
_knows_ but don't talk about; *_reliability._*
The *BMW R1250GSA* has one of the worst reliability records (see CR article and talk to BMW owners) and
the *Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin* (Adventure Sports version or any Honda) has the best reliability record.
NOTE:
Most *BMWs* are sold right at three (3) years due to the warranty running out and no free expensive fixes after that so BMW owners sale their three (3) year old bike & get a new one.
Most *Honda* owners after the 600 mile maintenance checks just ride & ride & change the oil every now & then.
@@sweetcostarica yes we can. We OWNERS OF GS ARE RICH PEOPLE. CHEERS FROM ITALY AND DON'T BE so envious
@@Rayban.720 Slow and rich, thats pretty much it. ;)
@@Rayban.720: you HOPE he's envious because then you justify your "richness"? I think we know the reliability comment is true in general. It goes the same for European cars versus Japanese cars too - there's a different mindset in manufacture
Can agree having a GS after coming from an off road training in wet! Yours look perfect all dry even on grass mines was good just my lowest skills.
Brilliant lads, both bikes way above my needs!
Great review. The BMW has a better road presence. Off-road it’s a bit of a pig. The AT is good on the rod and also very good off it. So if your buying one of these to get to your favorite off-road spot or re continuously going off-road then the AT is the better bike. You don’t see to many BMW riders go off-road with that bike. Most stay on the road an like the relaxed riding style.
Exactly
Yes , off road for the GSA would be dirt roads or logging roads rather than single track . For a taller and more muscular guy I am sure it would be fine , these guys are rather small .
What's the point of it if your not taking it of road? They are a big useless heap of garbage those BMW's. May as well buy a dedicated road bike and be done with it
The gs as a adv tourer is pure sublime. It’s not a dual sport. I have owned ktm 500s and wR’s where the fun really only starts to begin at those points where you have to turn around on a gs. However, for gravel, unimproved gravel roads, and dirt roads that aren’t too wet it’s a dream. It’s the only bike I can ride
ride 10hrs a day for days on end and not be miserable. Easier to pick up than a kLR too which surprises most people. Very easy to work on gs yourself because of good build quality.
@@Dirtpoorhomesteader "Easier to pick up than a kLR too "
The BMW platform tempts you to carry more stuff with you which ends up working against you when you need to pick it up. Moreover, the telelever/paralever combo works nicely on road but it results in a clunky terrible ride off road. I've had 2 GSs one of which exploded at just 20K kms ... not the best of experiences with them.
I think to give it a fair shake, you need to have both Hondas ( at and the clutch). The clutch will do much better off road.
Love the videos you guys are putting out.
Subscribed , good breakdown of pros and cons guys
Amazing videos, nice job. Congratulations .
AFRICA TWIN ANYTIME
Of course it isnt even comparable against the bmw😂
@@quadmeister true 😂
$20k out the door vs $30k.
The problem with the BMW is that it's highly unreliable compared to the Honda. In my country, the fully equipped BMW is more like 24k, and the Honda is 22. Add some aftermarket accessories (because aftermarket crash bars, cases and handguards are always better) and it'll be a tie. Considering the unreliability and high cost of maintenance of the BMW, the AT is a winner for me.
My Twin has given me a lot more sh1t than any of my 1200GSA's, I never had doubts when on a long trip with the BM, The Honda is like my KTM lol And you just to set the record straight, Maintenance cost more at Honda, BMW have always been reasonable with Services and parts.
@@SaintSa you talking nonsences mate! Honda is cheaper to mantaine and over all better bike.
Cheap and BMW in the same sentence?
I am at 30k on my gs and have put it through hell. A few leaky fork seals is all the trouble I have had. For me the GS is a cheap bike because I used to have multiple bikes to stay happy now I just have one. It’s my sport touring bike, adv touring bike and cruiser all rolled into one bike. I can’t speak to service costs because I do all my own basic maintenance to include valve checks. Parts are expensive but for three bikes rolled into one it’s not that bad.
@@Dirtpoorhomesteader expensive parts but willing to do valve checks yourself makes it worth it
Great video! Really looking forward to your video on the Triumph Tiger 900
This is the most beautiful bike ever. And to be honest, even if my Honda was called "Sausage Twin", I would like it. No BMW Gs1250, only Africa Twin. Unfortunately, this bike is not without flaws, and in fact has one, but a huge one. The biggest disadvantage is that I can't afford it 😭😭. I have to settle for my Honda Transalp 600. But one thing I am sure if I won the lottery, the first thing I would do was go to the Honda showroom in Poland, and without driving, blind tests, I take the White Africa Adventure ...... TH-cam. Great respect for this bike, because nothing electrified me like it. And I am a fan of the automotive industry. Excitement, shivers down your spine eeehhh.
Great review guys, very down to earth, no pretence, just like to riders chatting out on a ride. I'm a Africa Twin rider , coming from enduro and trials and could not be happier with the AT......although never ridden a GS!
Great review Gentlemen! As a little side question: of all the Adventure clothing you've worn, which would you say was the best, all round? Thanks
I am just blown away by both! I wish I could spend enough time with these bikes!! Good content, guys.. Keep em' coming..
Saddly the guy on the africa twin died. RIP
great video! love both machines, and to be honest whatever you choose you will have a lot of fun 😎
Subscribed 👍 great videos you guys make! Keep m coming!! Regards
Thank you! From now on, you can watch us on this YT channel. Waiting for you over there :)
@@RacingandAdventure Subscribed 👍👍
Love the content. Are y'all going to come up with some sweet merch ? I would love to buy some !
Hey,, you guys are great together 👍🏼,, better information than others,,fun and great video ,, greeting from Dubai,, and keep up the good work 🤜🏼🤛🏼
Fantastic videos guys, so funny when the bike almost fell off it's side stand!!
I love the GS, but it’s too heavy, too expensive, and not reliable. The Africa Twin is lighter, has a 21” front wheel, costs less, and will probably last a long time.
Unreliable? Lol.
I love my AT.
Not reliable wtf lol. Also they tested a GSA with 8 Gallon Tank! which is heavier than a GS. That’s their bad comparison.
Had 4 GS's since 2004 and had unreliable issues with them all. Not good.
@@andrewkitchenuk So you're the problem not the bikes.
Seems like we’re living in a golden era of No Bad Bikes. Great review. Wish you’d have thrown in a KTM 1290. Also excellent off road and probably fights the GS better on road with that motor.
This was a GSA btw 8 Gallon tank and 40lbs heavier than a GS!
Bad bike :)
Cannot believe u r gone. But you went riding one. Rest In Peace dear perdoi. You showed us how a review doesn’t have to be complex to be enjoyed
Great job guys! Love your channel and that review. Like the AT, although riding GS since long time. Where did you make the offroad videos? Love that landscape! Let us know where that is and keep up the good work.. 👍🏻
Africa twin undoubtedly the ultimate touring bike of planet earth.. considering features to cost of ownership etc
That GS just looks so heavy.
Go to any BMW MC Dealer and test ride a GS or GSA for FREEE demo ride! You will be amazed how light, quick and nimble these big mc truly are!
Because it is heavy. BMW 1250=591lbs, Honda DCT Adventure sports is 61 lbs lighter =530lbs and you don't want to drop either of them ;)
My 790 adventure is about 450 lbs. I know one shouldn't compare them but still, that's more than a 100 lbs lighter!
Because it is. It is for tall strong men :)
@@RuisRydo1205 My CRF450L is 289 lbs wet. And it's decent on the highway.
This is the best bike channel on you Tube by far. Comprehensive testing, good banter, I know they are not alone and work with a crew. But the videos get better and better as time goes by. they incorporate big tours which have amazing content, cinematic style and very enjoyable. Keep it up lads.
thanks , thats the clear and good summary in this short video ... very very usefull
Great vid guys, both in context and presentation.
Well, it could have been more fare if this comparative was made with the regular G1250 or 1200... Then weight shouldn’t be an issue... Nice video guys, nice editing with good filming angle.
Great review guys 👍
Great review guys!
You guys are are good team! I agree both bikes are awesome.
Well I do have Africa twin it's awesome love from india
I like your review of every aspect genuine
Great job boys, excellent comparison!
Thanks!
I ended up with a GS. It's in a whole different league when it comes to creature comforts and the overall higher feel of quality. I have no doubt the AT is better when the going gets rough, but my heavy pig of a GS has gotten me up and down some pretty gnarly terrain in utter comfort and confidence. And on-road? Might as well be a Goldwing. It's unreal how smooth and comfortable this machine is.
Oh, and I have dropped it AND picked it up solo on more occasions than I would like to admit. She's a hog, but the weight is carried so low and well that it's not a difficult machine to pick up, despite being 600lbs.
Ordered R1250GSA and is waiting for its arrival, happy to know that the quick-shifter improves!
Great comparison - sympathetic and authentic your competent discussions 🙏👍😎
Really enjoyed the review 👍
Great video! But.... i think the price of the bikes is not correct. AT Adv Sports ES 17.900 € and GSA with all packs 26.000€. Huge gap diference!
Love your reviews, honest, interesting, all you need is a regular 3rd man and you re Romanian Top Gear!
No, because to be Top Gear you have to say the real thing... Not be a brand sponsor channel like this one
Braz P. Good remark!
Best review! Nice job! 👍🏼
Extremely visual dynamic footage beautifully presented.
Love this review, glad I stumbled across it. Refreshing to see a review where both positives and drawbacks in the real world are considered.
PLEASE review the Striple RS, Z900 (maybe a comparison) and the ZX6R!!
Your videos are really relaxing to watch, especially in this time of global pandemic. Wish i could afford those adventure bike.
Now there's a proper presentation right there!
nice review guys, t=thanks so much ....
Hello. Very nice and interesting review guys. I really enjoyed the video. It would be great, if you will have the chance, to do a comparison between GSA, Super adventure and Multistrada Enduro.
Africa twin life forever!!!!
BMW GS Life Forever
@@satriyafebriardiansyah4197 TH-cam Moderator here. Aaron is correct and Satriya is wrong
E-Dirt bike will be last survivor, KTM knew that.
E-dirt bike that's funny!!!!😅🤣😂🙃
👎
Great great comparison! Cheers!
The slow-motion side shots were a very nice touch.
I seem to remember this test with the older models, you guys didn't like the AT off-road manners back then, so things must be getting better.
best bike channel on youtube by far.
Very informative video, thumbs up.
Very good stuff always ! Nice and honest comments .......but when you will do the review of the new Tiger 900 Rally Pro ? Waiting for your review !
Fair and honest review. From 2 riders we trust. Well done Gents. 👍🏼 😎 🇺🇸 🌎
Thank you for this video, it's great as always but I don't think these two engines can be put in the same class, that's my opinion. But I think the Africa Twin has bigger genes for offroad. Lots of greetings and maybe someday in the Carpathians we will eat cevapcici together!! Best Regards!!
Sweet review, thanks
1. Great guys 2. Great bikes 3. Great location = Great Video!
Ps love that park mode on the beach 😁👍🏻
Warm regards from Switzerland
I've learned the hard way with the AT. When offroad you HAVE to go manual and turn the TC completely off, else it will cut the power/change gear at the worst times. On the road, the auto DCT rules.
Who in there right mind would buy a dct automatic motorcycle ?
@@TC-iz6xe someone who has ridden one and isn't narrow minded?
@@joshbro99k96 they make scooters for those type
One word: reliability! which BMW bikes are not know for.
I own two BMWs and two Hondas. The BMWs have been at least on par with the Hondas; absolutely zero issues with my 1150 BMW over 17 years and 50k miles. Watching the “Long Way...” series and the guys taking the BMW bikes all over the globe with no issues, they’re what I want. If I was strictly on dirt, then yes, the Honda.
All European automotives are money pit and not really reliable just as how cars made in Detroit USA, they did it on purpose and now they're gone. Everyone know only Asian brands are reliable even iPhones are Made in China only Designed in California.
@@RIZFERD worst car I’ve ever owned was a Honda, in fact. I have a Jeep that I have driven since 2006 with almost zero issues. Owned a VW Jetta GLI for 16 years and had no problems whatsoever. Had a Golf that was running great with 468,000 miles when I sold it. Things tend to last indefinitely if you simply take care of them by doing the maintenance.
@@carguybd Honda's car is not as good as their bikes
it also depends on how you care of your bike
Love your videos!
So sad to here the news RIP and thanks for all the great videos
what happened ??? 🥲
@@klauspeters7434 unfortunately Christian passed away in a motorcycle crash very sad news
@@sandysteve97 ohhhh nooooo 😰 where did this happen, in Romania ?
@@klauspeters7434 pretty sure yes