BMW F 850 GS 2022 vs. Ducati DesertX 2022

In terms of engine specifications, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 is equipped with an in-line engine type with a bore of 84 mm and stroke of 77 mm. It has a power output of 95 HP and torque of 92 Nm. The starter is electric and the transmission is chain-driven. The bike has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 853 ccm.

On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2022 features a V-type engine with a bore of 94 mm and stroke of 67.5 mm. It has a higher power output of 110 HP and the same torque of 92 Nm. The starter and transmission are also electric and chain-driven, respectively. Like the BMW, it has 2 cylinders but a larger displacement of 937 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The BMW F 850 GS has a front fork diameter of 43 mm and a travel of 204 mm, while the rear suspension has a travel of 219 mm with preload and rebound adjustment. The Ducati DesertX has a slightly larger front fork diameter of 46 mm and a longer travel of 230 mm. The rear suspension has a travel of 220 mm and offers compression, preload, and rebound adjustment.

BMW F 850 GS 2022

Both bikes have a steel frame, with the BMW F 850 GS having a tubular, load-bearing engine frame type. The Ducati DesertX also has a tubular frame type. The rake and trail measurements are similar for both bikes, with the BMW having a rake of 62 degrees and a trail of 126 mm, while the Ducati has a rake of 62.4 degrees and a trail of 122 mm.

In terms of braking, both bikes have double disk brakes at the front. The BMW F 850 GS does not mention any specific type, while the Ducati DesertX has powerful brakes. Both bikes also have advanced rider assistance systems, with the BMW having ABS and the Ducati featuring riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150 mm rear tire width. However, the Ducati DesertX has a larger 18-inch rear tire diameter compared to the BMW's 17 inches. The wheelbase is slightly longer for the Ducati, measuring 1608 mm compared to the BMW's 1593 mm. The seat height is also higher for the Ducati at 875 mm compared to the BMW's 860 mm. The Ducati DesertX has a larger fuel tank capacity of 21 liters compared to the BMW's 15 liters. The kerb weight with ABS is slightly lower for the Ducati at 223 kg compared to the BMW's 229 kg.

In terms of strengths, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 offers good wind and weather protection, a well thought-out operating concept, practical equipment, and very accessible operation and driveability in everyday use. It also provides good seat comfort and a great connectivity solution.

Ducati DesertX 2022

On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2022 boasts 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.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW F 850 GS 2022 experiences vibrations in the upper rev range, has a somewhat boring engine, a stiff quickshifter gearstick, and front damping that may be too lax. The fork is not adjustable, and the bike may have a ponderous feel. Additionally, the front brake could benefit from more bite.

The Ducati DesertX 2022, on the other hand, has a smooth running engine in the lower rev range, but the suspension response is slightly behind that of the fork. The bike also has a very high, non-adjustable seat height and lacks space and handholds for a pillion passenger.