Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition vs Honda Africa Twin 1100: Which Is Better? 

I always thought the AT would be my first adventure bike BUT then I was told the Norden Expedition was coming out and I’m so glad I got the Husky. I’ll no doubt get a AT down the road but the expedition is amazing! 🏍️💨

Another thing no one ever mentions is that the AT is designed to run off of 87 gas, which is pretty much impossible to find on modern motorcycles. That could be a big advantage if you actually take it out to the middle of nowhere.

Great comparison. I own a 2017 AT. I ride it hard on road and hard off road. I have minimal luggage and extras, my bike is stock. I’ve dropped it many times, blown fork seals and broken levers also put a hole in the stator cover on a mountain. On that instance, I lost all the oil except what was in the sump. I used quick set JB weld and a beer can to patch the hole. Rode the bike down the mountain and into town, put more oil in it and rode another 3 days to finish my trip. I have riden 10 hour days going cross country and this bike just keeps going. The Norden looks incredible and has great features but my AT never lets me down and never says no to the terrain. Many great adventure bikes on the market but I “Ride Red”

Looked at the ktm 890 but so glad I bought the new 23 Africa twin and put 3500 miles on it so far and you just know it’s not going to let you down

Can attest for the Africa's Twin reliability, been having mine the first model of the 1100cc upgrade from 2020 and I've put almost 50000 miles on it since then, used it all year long through sun, rain and even some snow in UK. The bike runs as good or better than when it was new, flawless reliability. Would never trade it for anything else in the world. IMO, the standard AT, demolishes the mid/range competition. I wouldn't buy the Adventure Sports, it's quite heavier for no added performance.

Outside of looks and reliability history of the brands, for me, it is a no brainer. As someone who owns and loves an Africa Twin I would choose the Norden. Better suspension, tubeless tires, heated grips, heated seat, better dash, better wind protection. It comes in 15 lbs lighter, carries its weight lower, doesn't need a skid plate, probably doesn't need crash bars, and has racks and bags. So add all that to the Africa Twin and the weight difference becomes significant. I happen to prefer the looks of the Norden, but that is intensely subjective. The only thing that would make me hesitate is reliability reputation which is no small thing, but for all the extra features of the Norden I would be willing to roll the dice.

Tiny detail not mentioned when comparing to standard Norden is that Expedition comes with Explorer mode as standard (thus no need to pay for it extra)

I love the Norden - but I'd get the Africa Twin. It's a Honda, and it's just such a great bike overall. I'd probably go manual; again, I'm sure the DCT is awesome, but I am one of those guys who feels disconnected from proceedings if I'm not in charge of gears. I'd take fun over efficiency in that case. Now, if someone handed me a Norden, I sure wouldn't be disappointed either... but for my own money, Africa Twin.

Which one do I want or would buy? I want the 901, I would buy the Honda. The DCT and dealer network\parts, the Honda for me.

I guess it really is subjective, but in no world do I see the Norden as better looking than the Africa twin!

Personally I think the Africa twin is a better looking bike, but thats subjective…. You know what isn’t subjective? Reliability… I would never take a ktm or anything under ktm’s umbrella around the world or anywhere remote. Nothing beats Japanese reliability.

Just got my AT DCT and the DCT is amazing. Took me a bit getting used to the shifting behaviour between D, S1, S2, S3. I find that in NZ in the roads with heaps of twisties I can easily switch to S1 to keep the RPM that ever slightly higher. Also makes the twisties so much more enjoyable than manual gearbox. Like I can now just focus on my lines and take in the scenery with out the constant fear shifts as distraction. Sure not for everyone I'm sure but man it's so good

Norden Expedition wins hands down for me. Low mass centralisation, WP suspension, all the extras and the looks make it a better bike. And for all of the arguments about Honda’s build quality - have you looked at many second hand AT’s? From what I’ve seen they’re not holding up that well. I’ve gone with the Husky and the build quality is superb.

One thing to keep in mind. Ive seen a few long term tests on youtube of the Norden. And in every instance, there was at least one example of mechanical failure, with varying degrees of severity. It would seem that KTM/Husky, despite their claims to the contrary, have done very little to address reliability concerns. Food for thought if you were deciding between these 2 bikes in particular.

I've got the Matte black AT all decked out, gets nothing but compliments everywhere I go! She's a real looker.

You will absolutely regret going with a niche brand trust me as I have gone this route. The Honda brand is a powerhouse in almost every market and have a massive reputation in reliability... world renown even.

I like KTM and even owned a few of their bikes but if I'm gonna be caught out in the middle of nowhere I would want the Honda by my side because I know it will get me home 99.9% of the time.

I'm a Honda fan but I remember the "good ol' days" when we'd complain about the colour of the back light, choice of font and REALLY go on about how easy or difficult it was to reset the trip meter. Honda has jumped the shark with all those buttons on the left handlebar. Other brands are not far off. I think Game Boy's have fewer buttons. :P

Loved my 2017 AT DCT but the Norden is the next bike I purchase. Hands down

In 2022 I had these very same options when buying a new adventure bike. I completely agree with the argument of this video and exactly for the reasons explained at the end, I opted for the Africa Twin (specially regarding build and reliability)!

Thanks Bob, nice one. Norden for me every time, just because of its looks and because everyone has an ATwin. Love the content.

I would buy the Norden Expedition despite in the past (at that time, it was owned by an Italian company), I didn't have a good experience with Husqvarna, but I would think that KTM is doing a much better job. My favorite bikes are still the KTM 890R and the Ducati Desert X. Thanks for the video, very interesting.

I picked the Expedition and love it so far.

Did buy the Norden two weeks ago and I'm very happy with it! The Africa Twin is just a bit too expensive with the options that are included with the Expedition and Husqvarna just felt like a toy I wanted to have!

If I was looking to do some serious off roading on my travels ,215kg and 100bhp would be the last thing I’d be looking for.

First of all, congratulations on your channel. In my opinion, since you are making a comparison, you should compare the "Expedition" with the "Adventure Sports", or standard with standard. In terms of reliability, the Africa Twin is probably the best in its class.

The Norden Expedition would be my choice for domestic travel but once I started south of the border it has to be the AT.

Owned the Africa Twin 2020 CRF1100L for 3 years, I'd agree with your appraisal. I actually like the low screen, I've ridden it from Sydney to Phillip Island Motogp (1000km) and didn't experience any buffeting there and back, perhaps I'm lucky height-wise. Although I must admit the Husqvarna looks awesome, I think the Africa Twin is a decent-looking adv bike too. I love the Honda motor, so much fun and way better than you would think in the twisties once you dial in your position on the bike.

Absolutely love the Husky package but since reliability is still a gamble with ktm I would buy the AT

Like them both, very good point s on both bike reviews... I purchased the 901 expedition

How well does that Husky run on cheap gas? My AT doesn't care if you put low octane in it, cruises down the highway or a rough gravel road like it was on glass.

I don’t know which one I would choose. But that matte black/dark red color way on the Africa Twin in the video is my absolute favorite color! And just a thought on the Norden-I’ve never been crazy about that round headlight. It doesn’t say “retro” to me for some reason. It honestly doesn’t really fit the rest of the bike in my opinion. And “retro” and “adv bike” doesn’t really go together anyway!

Just ask Big Rock Moto Ian...his rear shock failed in about 1500 miles after he bought it. Here in the US, lack of customer care and support by KTM/Husky is another story that is way too common.

That’s a tough choice. Love the look of both these bikes and both are very capable machines. I can’t decide decide between the two 😂

Personally, I prefer the looks of Africa

I have that exact AT and have new bike fever (mine is a 2020 1100), BUT, it's hard to walk away from the AT, if I were buying one or the other, it'd probably be the AT primarily for reliability but both are awesome. I have the Yosh RS-12 slip-on on my AT with baffle and spark arrestor installed, it's barely louder than stock and does feel like it gives an extra hp or two and looks damn good!

The AT is the bike that first got me interested in adventure bikes, but at this point it’s time for a model update!

Africa Twin. I’ve owned KTM’s and everyone of them has failed me in remote locations that has taken weeks to sort out. In Australia, you a vehicle you can trust. The other factor, when you’re having bad, feeling off and in the middle of ride the Honda just has the ‘I’ve got you, relax’ feel to it. The Husqvarna just wants to kill you if you aren’t up it for the rent.

I've just bought a 2023 AT with the dct, still running her in but so far I'm loving the bike and it's a very impressive gearbox. I am a big Honda fan and I've been interested in trying out the DCT for while...... just 300 mile left to do and it'll be first service time, then I can really explore the grunt this engine has😊

AT is a tall bike that I can’t ride confidently, however if I could AT is the adventure bike I definitely rate higher than the Norden 901

Hi Bob - great Vid - does the Norden have a centre stand ?

You have great videos... Thanks.

I think the real trick of the husky/ktm is that low slung gas tank. I have a AS Africa Twin and that tank is awesome for a long haul on pavement, but I try to keep it only half full when off road on any challenging terrain. You notice that high weight when it is full and it makes a difference off road to have the tank below half. I've fantasized about the Husky tank and it might be the biggest differentiator between these two bikes. Can't really go wrong tho can you?

Norden/KTM edges this one for me 😊 It’s basically better looking 890 adv R, which is the best bike in this range. Africa is close, though. You can’t go wrong with either of them 😊

Personally I would choose Husky, but reliability it is serious an isue on Husky/KTM platform. But Honda has a excellent japanese reliability 👍

I am in the Africa Twin bunch! Great all-around bike!

What brand is the jacket you are wearing at 03:45? Looks really cool

Norden's ecstatics reminds me of an older Honda Transalp which i personally like very much.

I am curious to know the reliability

Love my 16 AT DCT! I’ve had it for 5 years living here in Oregon. It’s taken me all over the state on gravel and dirt roads and occasionally the street; it’s a fabulous bike. Personally, I think the 901 is a little ugly and looks awkward.

Ultimate adventure bike Expedition brutal ride

It really is a difficult decision these days. I went for the KTM version because low weight is more important than looks. I also like to keep my bikes simple, so no interest in automatic gearboxes, quick shift or cruise control. The quiet exhaust on the Husky/KTM isn't exciting, but is great when you want to avoid attention.

I’ve thought long & hard .. taken in all the pros & cons , decided the most reliable bike to head into the extreme Aussie Bush 👊 T700

What's the servicing intervals, costs etc no mention of those which is for me another choice factor.

Hi Bob. I personally would go for the Africa Twin. I presently have the CB500X 2022 and I have done just shy of 40,000 Km (25,000 miles) in 2 years. The only thing for me is that I am 190 cm tall & 100 Kg. Since I am really putting on some serious miles, I am looking for now is a bigger, more powerful bike. Thanks Bob

Here in Australia you would not go past the Africa twin the other thing just carnt handle the remote without requiring parts which aren’t available in 80% of our perfectly suited Africa twin country enjoy

Well, making a decision about the looks of them is easy to do for the individual I guess. Big differences in compression ratio. Where do you ride...how remote...what's the fuel quality...what's easier to find, a Honda dealer or a KTM/Husquarna one? How likely is it that you'll need one?

Which seat feels lower?

Norden Exp no question, in fact I plan to buy one soon. As soon as I sell my R9T.

The volume of KTM 790/890 engines that are suffering low km camshaft failure is staggering, now as 901's start getting to 25-35,000 km there are a number of reports of the same issues starting in them. After my KTM has being down for repair for the last 6 months due to camshaft failure, they simply can't keep up with camshafts supplies, I could never consider signing up for that possibility again with the same engine. $7600 if KTM/Huski can find any reason not to cover your claim for their second rate engineering.

If you thought the suspension on the Norden was wallowy, you should’ve simply snugged up the compression and rebound settings. If you do that it becomes as fun on the road as a DesertX.

Both amazing bikes but I can’t imagine having to lift the Honda more than twice in a day, the KTM/Husky low weight and low slung gas tanks are a big plus. Either way, if I was going for that style bike it would be the Tuareg 660.

No mention of weight?

Decided to get the Expedition with reduced Suspension 😊

I test road the AT and the exhaust interference with your heel when riding on the balls of your feet is a hard no. That was a couple year ago, is it still that way?

Love my AT. Once you get used to DCT, there’s no turning back!

Both great bikes. And both are amazing looking. Just for the record, the wet weight of the AT manual is 505lbs and the Norden is 515. Also the AT manual has a swingarm design borrowed from the CRF450R mx bike. People often overlook the dirt capability of the AT. I could smoke most riders on their T7s and 660s in most places. Its a beast offroad if you have the skill and it a can carve serious twisties if you aren't scared of throwing a bike bike around. I was lucky enough to get a used 2022 AT and it is the best bike that I have ever owned of any type. It has flaws sure, but it more than makes up for it everywhere else. Plus, KTM twins just sound lame. They rattle at low revs and sound like an empty tin can at speed.

I love my standard Norden. I’ve upgraded everything except the suspension and heated seat. And I don’t need them. It’s tall enough. I took the cat out too. It’s FAST! With Explorer mode, the power is manageable. I really don’t need the Expedition.

2019 Honda AT manual. Is my new to me flavor 4k miles and I’m gonna send it this spring. Winter is for set up.. come on spring..

If you're gonna keep making comparisons. A comparison I've been doing mentally recently is the S1000xr and the 1290 SAS for an all-round type bike. They both have strengths but the XR seems hard to justify next to the 1290 which has more utility, more torque and the same levels of speed. But then I wish KTM had the looks and build quality of BMW. Also seems a bit interesting for the new m1000XR, it'll be barely faster than the SAS (or other premium adv bikes) while less versatile and much more expensive. I just want a sportbike that can run nicely on gravel I think, why isn't that a segment yet!?

The Norden has become my favorite bike for travel. Plenty of power, all the tech I want, comfort. It feels as good on road and off road. Not the best on either. As far as reliability. I can not comment until I put my first 50,000 miles on mine. That should take my about 2 years. KTM1190r was great but top heavy, GSA was great but massive heavy, this feels just about right. Especially if you are tall and are not going to carry a passenger.

Yo MOTOBOB, Africa Twin DCT👍👍💯 You Meet the Nicest People on a Honda Valkyrie. Keep the Shiny Side Up

I like those jeans, where can I find one like those?

Better question is, wich one is easier to find parts and service for wear you live. Bet you theres a dozen honda moto dealers for each husky/ktm dealer.

The Norden.

AT, No doubt about

The Africa Twin is legendary for a reason. I think the Norden Exp is a better value which is why I got one this week 😁

09:34 - I don't understand the practicality of not having to change gears, it would remove the satisfaction of riding a motorcycle! When we think of a car, we don't buy a manual car! We bought automatic, as it is more practical and efficient. They should think the same way, practicality :)

I like quirky bikes, so for me I'd pick the Norden..

I love using Apple CarPlay the whole ride #musicflow on my 21 ATAS ES DCT

I wish bikes had a "all modes off" mode.

Africa Twin AS ES DCT all the way. Love mine. OK, enough videos, going tor a ride.

I sat on both (except Norden non Expedition) in the showroom and was really disappointed with the foot peg position on the Norden being so far back with toes pointing to the ground like sitting on a crotch rocket. Not my kind of ergonomics.

I wonder why an almost brand new AT already is for sale? That cockpit handlebar scares me! Bottons al over the place! Help! Thank you mr Bob

Great video. I think it would be honda for me.

Since they went with Car Play, Honda should bite the bullet a little harder and add Android Auto. This AT and the Goldwing would benefit greatly and tip the decision for anyone looking for the bike to do the touring job(s) rather than picking a brand first

coming from South Africa you'll pay your ass off for that Husky in every possible way. I shudder to think what a drop will cost you.

just by looks i very much like Husky, very impressive

Africa Twin 1100 seat was terrible for me, how is the Norden in the seat department?

tried the norden expedition recently and i had trouble standing up. the seat was too wide in a pretty front area making it hard to stand properly compared to other big adv bikes. anyone else had the same trouble?

Power figures may be same but Norden has higher compression and needs premium fuel and not suited for around the world ride where premium fuel wont be available, Honda with low compression engine will take anything

I would choose NORDEN anytime of the day over AFRICA. However it depends where im located and exchange rate plus the logistical issues. Im holding on to my honda ct125.........

Had planned to get the Norden but went with the new Honda TransalpXL750

I love the AT but i don´t understand why Honda uses tube type tires when tubeless are safer and easier to fix. For someone who usually travels alone tubeless is a must.

If my Norden broke down in winnimucca Nevada id be shit out of luck. I’d have needed parts for my Honda in 24 hours. No one brings up infrastructure in these reviews. Japan has it dialed in. The Europeans.. not so much

I'm about to buy one of them and its a tough call. After a deception with two (!) Pan America's (lots of problems, and lousy service) I'm abou afraid to buy the Norden. There were issues with coolant and oil leaks. I also read that there is some moist problems in the wiring. I agree that the 'ready to race' quality sets a minor on the plastic parts, I think Honda is far better build then the Norden.

Honda as a benchmark ?

I would love to have the Husqavarna if is was Blacked Out

For me it would be a no brainer. The reliability and dealer network of Honda throughout the world would win it for me. KTM group bikes have a reliability problem and for a long distance tourer, it would be a deal breaker.

I disagree about the looks... the AT is a beautiful bike. The Norden looks a little 'parts-bin'. The lack of local dealers for the KTM/Husky in my area (Ontario Canada) also would be a deal breaker...especially if there are quality issues.