Ducati DesertX 2022 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

The Ducati DesertX 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 are both off-road motorcycles designed for enduro riding. They have similar features and capabilities, but there are some notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the Ducati DesertX 2022, it boasts a powerful V-twin engine with a displacement of 937cc. It delivers 110 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque, providing excellent acceleration and top speed. The DesertX has an electric start and a chain transmission. It features a steel frame and a tubular chassis, which contribute to its robustness and durability. The suspension system consists of a Kayaba telescopic fork at the front and a Kayaba monoshock at the rear, both offering adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The DesertX has a 21-inch front tire and an 18-inch rear tire, providing good traction on various terrains. It also comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, cornering ABS, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie control. The DesertX is equipped with connectivity features, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

Ducati DesertX 2022

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 is equipped with an inline twin-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc. It produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque, offering strong performance on and off the road. The Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT has an electric start and a chain transmission. It features a steel frame with a twin-spar design, providing stability and agility. The suspension system consists of a Showa telescopic fork at the front and a Showa monoshock at the rear, both offering adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT has a 21-inch front tire and an 18-inch rear tire, ensuring good grip on various surfaces. It comes with advanced rider assistance systems including ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie control. The Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT is equipped with LED headlights.

In terms of strengths, the Ducati DesertX 2022 stands out for its excellent chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated riding modes, powerful engine, strong brakes, well-thought-out details, and extensive standard equipment. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 excels in its powerful engine, semi-active chassis with fantastic performance, sophisticated electronic riding aids, color touchscreen display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and almost "too good" wind protection.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020

However, both models have their weaknesses. The Ducati DesertX 2022 has a slightly smoother engine operation at lower revs, slightly inferior suspension response compared to the fork, a very high and non-adjustable seat height, and limited space and no handles for the passenger. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 has a confusing array of buttons on the left handlebar, a heavier weight, and a higher price, although the latter may be justified considering its features and capabilities.

In conclusion, the Ducati DesertX 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin Adventure Sports DCT 2020 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities, whether it be power, suspension performance, electronic aids, ergonomics, or price.