KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 vs. Ducati DesertX 2023

The KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 and the Ducati DesertX 2023 are both enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures. They have similar engine types, with the KTM having an in-line engine and the Ducati having a V engine. The KTM has a slightly smaller bore and stroke compared to the Ducati, but it compensates with a higher engine power of 105 HP compared to the Ducati's 110 HP. The KTM also has a higher torque of 100 Nm compared to the Ducati's 92 Nm.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The KTM uses WP suspension components, while the Ducati uses Kayaba. The KTM has a larger front fork diameter of 48 mm compared to the Ducati's 46 mm, and it also has a slightly longer front suspension travel of 240 mm compared to the Ducati's 230 mm. Both motorcycles offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustment for the front and rear suspensions.

The chassis of the KTM is made of chromium-molybdenum and has a tubular, load-bearing engine design. The Ducati has a steel frame with a tubular design. The KTM has a slightly steeper rake angle of 63.7 degrees compared to the Ducati's 62.4 degrees.

KTM 890 Adventure R 2023

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front, providing powerful stopping power. The KTM comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Ducati offers additional features like a shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, and anti-wheelie control.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a 21-inch front tire diameter and an 18-inch rear tire diameter. The rear tire width is 150 mm for both bikes. The KTM has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1528 mm compared to the Ducati's 1608 mm. The seat height of the KTM is 880 mm, which is slightly higher than the Ducati's 875 mm. The dry weight of the KTM is 196 kg with ABS, while the Ducati weighs slightly more at 202 kg with ABS. The fuel tank capacity of the KTM is 20 liters, providing a range of 444 km, while the Ducati has a larger fuel tank capacity of 21 liters but a shorter range of 375 km. The combined fuel consumption of the KTM is 4.5 l/100km, while the Ducati has a higher fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100km.

Both motorcycles come with connectivity features, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and TFT displays. The Ducati offers additional equipment such as heated grips.

Ducati DesertX 2023

In terms of strengths, the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 offers an off-road capable chassis, harmonious ergonomics, agile handling, a powerful engine, and a comprehensive electronics package. It also comes with cornering ABS, finely controllable brakes, and traction control depending on lean angle. The Ducati DesertX 2023 has a great chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated driving modes, a powerful engine, powerful brakes, and well thought-out detail solutions. It also comes with extensive standard equipment.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The KTM has a standard seat that is rather hard padded, and the seat height can be challenging for small riders. Useful features such as a quickshifter+ are available at an extra cost. The Ducati has a smooth running engine in the lower rev range and the suspension response is slightly behind that of the fork. It also has a very high, non-adjustable seat height and little space and no handholds for pillion riders.

In conclusion, both the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 and the Ducati DesertX 2023 are capable off-road motorcycles with powerful engines and advanced electronics. The KTM offers a more off-road-focused package with its chassis and ergonomics, while the Ducati offers a more sophisticated and well-equipped option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.