Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 vs. Ducati DesertX 2022

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the Ducati DesertX 2022 are both enduro motorcycles with similar features and specifications. However, they have some distinct differences that set them apart.

In terms of engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 81.5 mm. It delivers 102 HP of power and 105 Nm of torque. The Ducati DesertX 2022, on the other hand, has a V-type engine with a bore of 94 mm and a stroke of 67.5 mm. It offers a slightly higher power output of 110 HP but a lower torque of 92 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

When it comes to suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspensions at the rear. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 is equipped with Showa suspension components, including a 45 mm diameter front fork and a monoshock rear shock absorber. It offers a front travel of 230 mm and a rear travel of 220 mm. The Ducati DesertX 2022, on the other hand, features Kayaba suspension components, including a slightly larger 46 mm diameter front fork. It also offers the same front and rear travel as the Africa Twin.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have steel frames. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a double cradle frame, while the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a tubular frame. The Africa Twin has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113 mm, while the DesertX has a slightly steeper rake of 62.4 degrees and a longer trail of 122 mm.

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The Ducati DesertX 2022 offers similar rider assistance systems, including 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 motorcycles have a 21-inch front tire diameter and an 18-inch rear tire diameter. They also have the same rear tire width of 150 mm. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 has a wheelbase of 1575 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. It weighs 226 kg (with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters. The Ducati DesertX 2022, on the other hand, has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1608 mm and a higher seat height of 875 mm. It weighs slightly less at 223 kg (with ABS) but has a larger fuel tank capacity of 21 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with LED headlights. The Ducati DesertX 2022 offers additional features such as connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, and a TFT display.

Ducati DesertX 2022

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 is praised for its high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, optional DCT transmission, touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It also has a windshield that is perfect for off-roading. On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2022 is praised for its great chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated driving modes, powerful engine, powerful brakes, and well-thought-out detail solutions. It also comes with extensive standard equipment.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 is criticized for its flood of buttons on the left handlebar, which may not be very clear, and its handguards, which are not very robust for off-road use. The windshield also offers manageable protection. The Ducati DesertX 2022, on the other hand, is noted for its smooth running of the engine in the lower rev range, slightly delayed suspension response compared to the fork, very high and non-adjustable seat height, and lack of space and handholds for a pillion passenger.

Overall, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2020 and the Ducati DesertX 2022 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between them ultimately depends on the rider's preferences and priorities.