Ducati DesertX 2022 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

The Ducati DesertX 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 are both enduro motorcycles with impressive technical specifications and features.

Starting with the Ducati DesertX, it is equipped with a V-type engine with a displacement of 937ccm. The engine produces 110 HP of power and 92 Nm of torque, providing a powerful and thrilling riding experience. The DesertX features an electric starter and a chain transmission. The suspension system consists of an upside-down telescopic fork with a 46mm diameter in the front and a swing arm with a monoshock in the rear. The suspension offers a travel of 230mm in the front and 220mm in the rear, and it is fully adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. The DesertX has a steel tubular frame with a rake of 62.4 degrees and a trail of 122mm, providing stability and agility. The braking system includes double disk brakes in the front. In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the DesertX offers riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The dimensions and weights of the DesertX include a 21-inch front tire diameter, a 150mm rear tire width, an 18-inch rear tire diameter, a wheelbase of 1608mm, a seat height of 875mm, a kerb weight of 223kg (with ABS), a fuel tank capacity of 21 liters, a range of 375km, and a combined fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100km. The DesertX is equipped with connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 features an in-line engine with a displacement of 1084ccm. The engine produces 102 HP of power and 105 Nm of torque, offering a smooth and responsive performance. Similar to the DesertX, the Africa Twin Adventure Sports has an electric starter and a chain transmission. The suspension system consists of an upside-down telescopic fork with a 45mm diameter in the front and a swing arm with a monoshock in the rear. The suspension provides a travel of 230mm in the front and 220mm in the rear, and it is adjustable for compression, preload, and rebound. The Africa Twin Adventure Sports has a steel frame with a double cradle frame type, a rake of 62.5 degrees, and a trail of 113mm, ensuring stability and control. The braking system includes double disk brakes in the front. In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, the Africa Twin Adventure Sports offers ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The dimensions and weights of the Africa Twin Adventure Sports include a 21-inch front tire diameter, a 150mm rear tire width, an 18-inch rear tire diameter, a wheelbase of 1575mm, a seat height of 850mm, a kerb weight of 238kg (with ABS), a fuel tank capacity of 24.8 liters, a range of 506km, and a combined fuel consumption of 4.9 l/100km. The Africa Twin Adventure Sports is equipped with Bluetooth, connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

Ducati DesertX 2022

In terms of strengths, the Ducati DesertX 2022 stands out with its great chassis that features fully adjustable suspension, allowing riders to customize their riding experience. The DesertX also offers sophisticated driving modes, a powerful engine, powerful brakes, and well-thought-out detail solutions. Additionally, it comes with extensive standard equipment, including connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 has several strengths of its own. It boasts a very good chassis, both in terms of mechanical components and electronic ride aids. The optional DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) makes it a superior touring bike, offering convenience and versatility. The Africa Twin Adventure Sports also impresses with its high-quality and practical electronic ride aids, providing a safe and enjoyable riding experience. The wind protection is fundamentally good, and the engine delivers a flawless performance with great response and a linear torque curve. The handling is accessible and the overall ride is very pleasant, making it a wonderfully versatile bike.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses as well. The Ducati DesertX 2022 has a smooth running engine in the lower rev range, and the suspension response is slightly behind that of the fork. Additionally, the DesertX has a very high, non-adjustable seat height, which may not be suitable for shorter riders. Furthermore, it lacks space and handholds for a pillion passenger.

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 has some weaknesses too. The wind protection is too good in hot weather, with even the lowest position of the wind shield hardly allowing any wind through. The operation of the numerous switches may seem complex overall, even after two days of testing. Additionally, the seat may feel a bit too soft after a long day of riding.

In conclusion, both the Ducati DesertX 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports 2022 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The DesertX offers a powerful engine, adjustable suspension, and extensive standard equipment, while the Africa Twin Adventure Sports provides a high-quality chassis, practical electronic ride aids, and a versatile riding experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and priorities.