Ducati DesertX 2023 vs. Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023

The Ducati DesertX 2023 and the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 are both powerful and capable enduro motorcycles. They have several similarities in terms of their technical specifications, such as having a 2-cylinder engine, chain transmission, and similar front and rear suspension setups. However, there are also some notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the engine, the Ducati DesertX 2023 is equipped with a V-type engine with a displacement of 937cc, while the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 has an in-line engine with a displacement of 889cc. Both engines produce similar power outputs, with the DesertX having 110 HP and the Norden 901 Expedition having 105 HP. However, the Norden 901 Expedition has a slightly higher torque output of 100 Nm compared to the DesertX's 92 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters.

In terms of suspension, the DesertX features a Kayaba upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 46mm and a travel of 230mm at the front, while the Norden 901 Expedition has a WP upside-down telescopic fork with a larger diameter of 48mm and a travel of 240mm. The rear suspension on both motorcycles consists of a swing arm with a monoshock, but the Norden 901 Expedition has a slightly longer travel of 240mm compared to the DesertX's 220mm. Both motorcycles offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustments for the suspension.

Ducati DesertX 2023

When it comes to the chassis, the DesertX has a steel tubular frame with a rake of 62.4 degrees and a trail of 122mm. On the other hand, the Norden 901 Expedition features a chromium-molybdenum tubular frame with a slightly steeper rake of 64.2 degrees and a shorter trail of 106.9mm.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The DesertX does not specify the brand of the brakes, while the Norden 901 Expedition has an unspecified brand. Both motorcycles also have advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The DesertX offers additional features such as a shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, and anti-wheelie, while the Norden 901 Expedition has a quickshifter.

Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm with an 18-inch diameter. The DesertX has a dry weight (with ABS) of 202kg and a fuel tank capacity of 21 liters, while the Norden 901 Expedition has a slightly higher dry weight of 214.5kg and a smaller fuel tank capacity of 19 liters. The Norden 901 Expedition also offers a longer range of 422km compared to the DesertX's 375km. The combined fuel consumption of the Norden 901 Expedition is also lower at 4.5 l/100km compared to the DesertX's 5.6 l/100km.

Both motorcycles come with a range of equipment, including connectivity, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and TFT displays. The DesertX also offers heated grips as standard, while the Norden 901 Expedition does not specify this feature. The Norden 901 Expedition also lacks a USB slot in the cockpit, which may be a drawback for some riders. Additionally, the standard soft luggage provided with the Norden 901 Expedition is not of top quality, which may require riders to invest in better luggage options.

To summarize, the Ducati DesertX 2023 and the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The DesertX offers a powerful engine, sophisticated driving modes, and extensive standard equipment, while the Norden 901 Expedition provides high-quality and fully adjustable chassis, improved off-road capabilities, and top-of-the-range equipment as standard. Riders should consider their preferences and priorities to choose the motorcycle that best suits their needs.