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.
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.
Having owned a 2010 Multistrada 1200S (would have kept it, but the reliability was beyond shit) and a 2014 KTM 1190 ADV-R (totaled due to finding out the hard way I had a nail in the tire in the middle of a turn), I have some experience in the Adv game. I have taken my bikes camping, gone on multi-day trips, and eaten up miles of dirt and asphalt on my Duc and KTM. I can tell you that you really don't need more than 100 hp to get the requirements out of the way, and have overhead to have fun. The fact is I spent most of my time at around 4,000 rpm on either bike because of daily commuting, and I can count on two hands the number of times I've unleashed the full stable of horses on either bikes. I've always said the perfect bike is something that is Euro fun, Japanese reliable, and I think the Africa Twin is that bike. That is why I have a silver manual version on order. To me Honda has basically created a resto-modded KTM 990 ADV, and that is a great thing!
+RideApart Great riding, BTW! I thought you had lost it on the MTS1200E at the 25 second mark, but you surprised me with a quick save. Nice! I will say that if the Honda proves to be a reliable steed, then the value factor between it, and European brands simply cannot be ignored. This would be due to the (not so) hidden money and down-time costs associated typically with European manufacturer reliability issues. For example: I had my Multistrada for three years, and six months of that total time the bike was in the shop for one thing or another. The KTM had issues with passing unfiltered air through the air box, and it would not start in the cold because the starter was undersized. Both those issues had to be rectified by throwing money (new parts) and time to fix the problems. If I don't have those issues with the Honda... Then HELL YEAH(!), because all the horsepower in the world isn't going to do a damned bit of good if the machine is dead-lined and out of service.
+WRXXXual Thanks for the complement! I have my moments. The Pirelli test riders were the real badasses. I've ridden with plenty of great riders, but those dudes were on another level.
***** Well, I've had moments like that when I was on my 1190 ADV-R, then again I'm 5'7" w/ a 30" inseam so I had my share, haha! I'm curious, did the Pirelli riders have any thoughts on the bikes?
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.
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.
+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.
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.
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..
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.
+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.
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!!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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!
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
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!
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.
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.
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.
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!
The comments are very interesting haha. I agree using the 1190R and the GSA version would have been a better comparison. Personally, I don't think the Africa twin even belongs in this class. Everyone that is hardcore KTM or BMW is definitely on edge because the Multistrada Enduro is a definite competitor. Don't get me wrong, I love the GS's and KTM has a bike that can only be nit picked, but not faulted. It's a bit comical to read the comments from both camps that are getting aggro with the Enduro pissing on their fire hydrant! :)
I know everyone has written off the Tenere but I tell customers on a weekly basis that if I had to cough up real money out of my pocket...the Yamaha is probably the best real world bike on the market. Not over powered and in need of expensive electronics to tame it down. Adequate suspension and running gear.....Let's be honest...we aren't going to the MX Track. And by far the most reliable and cheapest to own over 60k plus miles. I've owned a 950 Super Enduro...a 990 Adv...A 1150 gsa that won't die and I keep going back to the S Ten as my next bike...for whatever it's worth. I'm glad we have so many great choices
Hey, do you know what's even better than the R1200GS in almost every way? Honda VFR1200X/XD Crosstourer - that's what. Fantastic machine! Extremely underrated.
I don't get why they didn't test the Multistrada Enduro versus the KTM 1190 Adventure R & the BMW R1200GS Adventure? it's kind of an unfair comparison, by the way Honda's Africa Twin it's more in the ballpark of Triumph Tigers and GS 800s
Fabulous comparo! I agree with some previous comments that there are more comparable bikes that could be included here (see KTM Adventure 1190r model). Nonetheless, the range of bikes is also appealing...makes for some interesting cogitation. Thanks for providing such quality on all levels. I immediately shared this with my fellow riders!
I don't know why I didn't see this one earlier. Would have been nice to see the Super Tenere and Triumph Tiger on here.. Great video though, very informative!
To anyone watching this - if you're considering buying a 2016-2019 AT and you want to actually get off-road - speaking as an owner - count on suspension upgrades. Unless you like blown fork seals and bottoming out CONSTANTLY. Other than that fantastic bike
+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.
This is a great video, but I believe to have a better comparison you guys needed to test the "off road versions" of these bikes. So the Ducati has the Mulitstrada (regular version) AND the Multistrada Enduro. To have the most accurate comparison this should have had the Adventure R and the 1200 GSA up against the M Enduro. Since the Africa Twin doesn't have two versions (not counting the transmission option). I think the 1190 Adv R would have probably taken away from some of the Enduro's thunder. I have not had the honor to ride the new Africa Twin, but this video has me considering swapping out my F800GS for one...
I am looking forward to try it out the Africa twin and so the Ducati. Also looking forward to see what BMW will bring it out at the end of the year to compete with Africa twin, since the F800GS is going out of style... Love my F800GS and for Dual sport, there is no better, with 21" front wheel, expect possible the Africa Twin.... Lets see if BMW will bring a F900GS ! :)
I have tried all the bikes in this test, except that the KTM I tried was the 1190R. Either the difference between the R and the regular KTM is really huge, or we just completely disagree. There is no doubt that the Honda is great off road, but the 1190R is clearly better. The clutch is lighter and more precise, the throttle control is better, the suspension seems better and it generally just seems lighter than the AT. It's not better by a huge margin, but still better in every single aspect off road. On road it is in a different league thanks to the engine of course. Totally agree about the conclusion on the Multistrada though, awesome bike, but huge! As long as you keep it running it feels great, but at 6'1" I found it quite intimidating just getting the thing off the side stand on a slight incline. Couple that with heavy weight and a heavy clutch and it certainly isn't a user friendly experience. How the Italians can ride them is a mystery ;)
Make no mistake: the enduro’s weight is hernia inducing. Lovely machine, but feels much much heavier than the competition. BMW and Honda feel similar in terms of weight. KTM 1190/1290 feels top heavy, all inputs requires much more premeditation and planning, heavy to pick up; that being said it’s much more stable than a GS.
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!
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
Having owned a 2010 Multistrada 1200S (would have kept it, but the reliability was beyond shit) and a 2014 KTM 1190 ADV-R (totaled due to finding out the hard way I had a nail in the tire in the middle of a turn), I have some experience in the Adv game. I have taken my bikes camping, gone on multi-day trips, and eaten up miles of dirt and asphalt on my Duc and KTM. I can tell you that you really don't need more than 100 hp to get the requirements out of the way, and have overhead to have fun. The fact is I spent most of my time at around 4,000 rpm on either bike because of daily commuting, and I can count on two hands the number of times I've unleashed the full stable of horses on either bikes.
I've always said the perfect bike is something that is Euro fun, Japanese reliable, and I think the Africa Twin is that bike. That is why I have a silver manual version on order. To me Honda has basically created a resto-modded KTM 990 ADV, and that is a great thing!
+WRXXXual One of the other Journalists I was with on the AF launch in Moab made the exact observation about the 990 and the Africa Twin.
+RideApart Great riding, BTW! I thought you had lost it on the MTS1200E at the 25 second mark, but you surprised me with a quick save. Nice!
I will say that if the Honda proves to be a reliable steed, then the value factor between it, and European brands simply cannot be ignored. This would be due to the (not so) hidden money and down-time costs associated typically with European manufacturer reliability issues.
For example: I had my Multistrada for three years, and six months of that total time the bike was in the shop for one thing or another. The KTM had issues with passing unfiltered air through the air box, and it would not start in the cold because the starter was undersized. Both those issues had to be rectified by throwing money (new parts) and time to fix the problems.
If I don't have those issues with the Honda... Then HELL YEAH(!), because all the horsepower in the world isn't going to do a damned bit of good if the machine is dead-lined and out of service.
+WRXXXual Thanks for the complement! I have my moments. The Pirelli test riders were the real badasses. I've ridden with plenty of great riders, but those dudes were on another level.
***** Well, I've had moments like that when I was on my 1190 ADV-R, then again I'm 5'7" w/ a 30" inseam so I had my share, haha!
I'm curious, did the Pirelli riders have any thoughts on the bikes?
+WRXXXual yes. they agreed that the Africa Twin is in it's own class and that the Ducati was the best of the heavyweight ADV's they've ever ridden.
The CRF is the only one I would spend my own money on.
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 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.
Africa Twin looks like a bike taken straight from DAKAR!!
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.
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.
You could almost buy two Africa Twins, one for you & one for your buddy, for the price of one Ducati. Crazy!
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..
Why does nobody test the KTM 1190 Adventure R model versus the new Honda CRF1000L ? :(
This is the real fight ! ;)
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.
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.
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!!
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
One of the best reviews videos that i have ever seen !!! Congratulations !!!
claims to be the ultimate Adv motorcycle shootout...doesnt include KTM 1190 Adventure R ... makes sense...
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.
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!
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!
Excellent fact and objective-based opinion reviews of the bikes! Really appreciate these types of videos, thank you!
Those jumps are blowing me away
This is the video that I was looking for.Excelent 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.
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.
@ 3:45 and 4:46 - DAM!
Those guys can RiDE!
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
Great review, pros and cons described, same tyres to even up, and clear favourites with reasons. Thanks.
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
Awesome comparison! Also, glad you shoot it in my hometown!
really good comparison...thank you
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.
Welcome back to the world of video! Nice to see you again.
great work, correct conclusion as well ;)
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.
You should of had the KTM 1190R. The standard version is more of a road bike.
Bellissimo video e complimenti. Che bello vedere la mia terra (e la mia moto Africa Twin.
Bravi
I think that the Africa Twin falls more into the same category as BMW F800GS and Triumph Tiger 800.
"Ingenious 270 degree " you mean like the Triumph Bonneville and Thunderbirds? For years...
What an informative review. Love the shoot outs. Kudos to everyone involved. The Ducati will be mine!
NOW the Africa Twin makes sence 😉
glad to see somebody take these offroad! great review
I wish I could have the Africa twin
1:02 "I need to check the air pressure in my tires.... someone bring me an air gauge with the world's largest dial!"
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!
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
They're ALL great bikes. The Africa Twin is the one that grabs me, though. Less power, but I appreciate off road capability.
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!
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.
Great video, i really love ducati and africa twin...!
Motorcycle shootout? Maybe half of a shootout. What about the Yamaha Super Tenere and the Triumph Tiger Explorer?
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.
I still love my BMW R1200 GS Adventure.
The Honda Africa twin .....for the price is unbeatable.
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.
Brillant video guys!! Thank you for the real and honest test!
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.
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!
The comments are very interesting haha. I agree using the 1190R and the GSA version would have been a better comparison. Personally, I don't think the Africa twin even belongs in this class. Everyone that is hardcore KTM or BMW is definitely on edge because the Multistrada Enduro is a definite competitor. Don't get me wrong, I love the GS's and KTM has a bike that can only be nit picked, but not faulted. It's a bit comical to read the comments from both camps that are getting aggro with the Enduro pissing on their fire hydrant! :)
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
The power figures quoted are at the crank and not the rear wheel. Subtract about 10% for rear wheel power.
i very much enjoyed this video. i bought an FJ09 3 months before they announced the new Africa Twin....man, am i sad about that... :(
Parallel twin with 270° degree ignition offset - what a great invention...
brought up by Yamaha on the TDM850 :-P
Excellent reporting, I want to see more reviews of this quality!
truly appreciate the review, thanks. :)
Fantastic professional review - excellent work.
I know everyone has written off the Tenere but I tell customers on a weekly basis that if I had to cough up real money out of my pocket...the Yamaha is probably the best real world bike on the market. Not over powered and in need of expensive electronics to tame it down. Adequate suspension and running gear.....Let's be honest...we aren't going to the MX Track. And by far the most reliable and cheapest to own over 60k plus miles. I've owned a 950 Super Enduro...a 990 Adv...A 1150 gsa that won't die and I keep going back to the S Ten as my next bike...for whatever it's worth. I'm glad we have so many great choices
Excellent report, thanks.
Really need to put a KTM 1190 R in there against the Africa Twin
Correct me if I'm wrong. The equivalent of BMW GS1200 in Honda is Crosstourer 1200. Not Africa twin.
Hey, do you know what's even better than the R1200GS in almost every way? Honda VFR1200X/XD Crosstourer - that's what. Fantastic machine! Extremely underrated.
Finally another video its been to long 👍👍
I don't get why they didn't test the Multistrada Enduro versus the KTM 1190 Adventure R & the BMW R1200GS Adventure? it's kind of an unfair comparison, by the way Honda's Africa Twin it's more in the ballpark of Triumph Tigers and GS 800s
Fabulous comparo! I agree with some previous comments that there are more comparable bikes that could be included here (see KTM Adventure 1190r model). Nonetheless, the range of bikes is also appealing...makes for some interesting cogitation. Thanks for providing such quality on all levels. I immediately shared this with my fellow riders!
You took a ktm street version for the test, why not a hayabusa also?
Great images! Thanks for this video.
excellent review, more of those please
What a great adventure is when your bike lies down on the road and you need help to get it standing again.
Great review !
Wish you had a Super Tenéré in this test too. Really thinking about getting one. Not sure how it stacks up.
I don't know why I didn't see this one earlier. Would have been nice to see the Super Tenere and Triumph Tiger on here.. Great video though, very informative!
INCREDIBLE!!!
To anyone watching this - if you're considering buying a 2016-2019 AT and you want to actually get off-road - speaking as an owner - count on suspension upgrades. Unless you like blown fork seals and bottoming out CONSTANTLY. Other than that fantastic bike
I like the wind-energy-helmet design on 6'26" :)
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?
Missing the GSA in this test. And uhm, off-roading without spoked wheels....
This is a great video, but I believe to have a better comparison you guys needed to test the "off road versions" of these bikes. So the Ducati has the Mulitstrada (regular version) AND the Multistrada Enduro. To have the most accurate comparison this should have had the Adventure R and the 1200 GSA up against the M Enduro. Since the Africa Twin doesn't have two versions (not counting the transmission option). I think the 1190 Adv R would have probably taken away from some of the Enduro's thunder. I have not had the honor to ride the new Africa Twin, but this video has me considering swapping out my F800GS for one...
I'll stick by my 2012 V-Strom DL650ABS, for the price, the best motorcycle in the world.
should' tested the super tenure instead of the AT, which belongs with mid weight ADV bikes
Few other horses should be in here too! Aprilia Caponord Rally? SuperTenere?
Great Video.
Perhaps I'm alone, but I would have expected to see the KTM 1290 Super Adventure as a flagship comparison in the superheavyweight adv bike category.
I am looking forward to try it out the Africa twin and so the Ducati. Also looking forward to see what BMW will bring it out at the end of the year to compete with Africa twin, since the F800GS is going out of style... Love my F800GS and for Dual sport, there is no better, with 21" front wheel, expect possible the Africa Twin.... Lets see if BMW will bring a F900GS ! :)
Jim Downs, on his way to becoming a YT star LOL
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
The Ducati multistrada looks so much cooler!!
Africa Twin always a classic
I have tried all the bikes in this test, except that the KTM I tried was the 1190R. Either the difference between the R and the regular KTM is really huge, or we just completely disagree. There is no doubt that the Honda is great off road, but the 1190R is clearly better. The clutch is lighter and more precise, the throttle control is better, the suspension seems better and it generally just seems lighter than the AT. It's not better by a huge margin, but still better in every single aspect off road. On road it is in a different league thanks to the engine of course.
Totally agree about the conclusion on the Multistrada though, awesome bike, but huge! As long as you keep it running it feels great, but at 6'1" I found it quite intimidating just getting the thing off the side stand on a slight incline. Couple that with heavy weight and a heavy clutch and it certainly isn't a user friendly experience. How the Italians can ride them is a mystery ;)
Make no mistake: the enduro’s weight is hernia inducing. Lovely machine, but feels much much heavier than the competition. BMW and Honda feel similar in terms of weight. KTM 1190/1290 feels top heavy, all inputs requires much more premeditation and planning, heavy to pick up; that being said it’s much more stable than a GS.