Honda XL 1000 Varadero vs Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin DCT (2017)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda XL 1000 Varaderostacks up against the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin DCT. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHonda XL 1000 VaraderoHonda CRF1000L Africa Twin DCT
Model year20032017
Price$13,820
Engine996 cc998 cc
Horsepower93 hp95 hp
Torque98 Nm98 Nm
Weight235 kg
Seat height33 mm34 mm
Fuel capacity6.6 L5.0 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission6-speedAutomatic
Front brakesDouble discDouble disc. Switchable ABS. 4-piston calipers and sintered metal pads
Rear brakesSingle discSingle disc. Switchable ABS. 2-piston caliper and sintered metal pads.
Tires110/80-19 / 150/70-17 90/90-21 / 150/70-18

Honda XL 1000 Varadero vs Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin DCT — which should you buy?

Picking between the Honda XL 1000 Varadero and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin DCT usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda XL 1000 Varadero brings 93 hp in a 235 kg package, while the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin DCT counters with 95 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: