Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 vs. Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally 2023

The Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023 and the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally 2023 are both enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures. While they share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that set them apart.

Starting with the technical specifications, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition is equipped with an inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 889cc. It produces 105 horsepower and 100 Nm of torque, providing ample power for off-road riding. The Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally, on the other hand, features a V4 engine with a displacement of 1158cc. It delivers a whopping 170 horsepower and 121 Nm of torque, making it significantly more powerful than the Husqvarna.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature a telescopic fork at the front and a monoshock at the rear. The Husqvarna is equipped with a WP fork with a diameter of 48mm and a travel of 240mm, while the Ducati comes with a Marzocchi fork with a diameter of 50mm and a travel of 200mm. Both suspensions offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustment, allowing riders to fine-tune their setup for different terrains.

Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition 2023

When it comes to the chassis, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition features a chromium-molybdenum frame with a rake angle of 64.2 degrees and a trail of 106.9mm. The Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally, on the other hand, has a steel monocoque frame with a rake angle of 65.3 degrees and a trail of 105.5mm. Both frames are designed to provide stability and agility off-road.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with dual disc brakes at the front. The Husqvarna features a 21-inch front tire and a 150mm wide rear tire, while the Ducati has a 19-inch front tire and a 170mm wide rear tire. The Husqvarna weighs 214.5kg (dry) and has a fuel capacity of 19 liters, while the Ducati weighs 226.99kg (dry) and has a larger fuel capacity of 30 liters.

In terms of advanced rider aids, both motorcycles come with ABS, multiple riding modes, traction control, and quick shifters. However, the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally offers a more extensive electronic package, including features such as hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, cruise control with radar system, blind spot assistance, and anti-wheelie control.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and TFT displays. The Ducati also features cornering lights, an adjustable windscreen, and a larger fuel tank capacity.

Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally 2023

In terms of strengths, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition offers a high-quality and fully adjustable chassis, comfortable seating, superior off-road capabilities, top-of-the-line equipment, a powerful yet smooth engine, agile geometry, good fuel efficiency, and high-quality appearance and finishes. On the other hand, the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally boasts a very powerful but finely controllable V4 engine, surprising maneuverability for its weight, powerful yet sensitive brakes, a highly reactive semi-active chassis, an extensive electronic package, good ergonomics even for off-road use, cruise control with radar system, and good wind protection.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition has a seat height of 874mm, which may be challenging for shorter riders, lacks a USB port in the cockpit, and the standard luggage is not of superior quality. The Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally could benefit from more suspension travel on uneven and undulating terrains, has a high price tag, and above-average fuel consumption.

In conclusion, the Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition and the Ducati Multistrada V4 Rally are both formidable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Husqvarna offers a more affordable option with excellent off-road capabilities and high-quality components, while the Ducati provides a more powerful and technologically advanced package at a higher price point. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences, budget, and intended use.