BMW R 1250 GS 2021 vs. Ducati DesertX 2022

The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 and the Ducati DesertX 2022 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and capabilities. However, they have some distinct differences in terms of their technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the engine and drivetrain, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is equipped with a Boxer engine that has a bore of 102.5 mm and a stroke of 76 mm. It delivers a powerful engine power of 136 HP and a torque of 143 Nm. The Ducati DesertX 2022, on the other hand, features a V-type engine with a bore of 94 mm and a stroke of 67.5 mm. It has a slightly lower engine power of 110 HP and a torque of 92 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters, but the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a transmission system with a prop shaft while the Ducati DesertX 2022 uses a chain.

In terms of suspension, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a telelever front suspension with a diameter of 37 mm and a travel of 190 mm. The rear suspension is a single swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 200 mm. The Ducati DesertX 2022, on the other hand, features an upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 46 mm and a travel of 230 mm for the front suspension. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock and a travel of 220 mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustment options for preload and rebound.

BMW R 1250 GS 2021

When it comes to the chassis, both motorcycles have steel frames. However, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a load-bearing engine frame type, while the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a tubular frame type. The rake and trail measurements are quite similar, with the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 having a rake of 62.9 degrees and a trail of 109 mm, while the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a rake of 62.4 degrees and a trail of 122 mm.

In terms of braking, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Ducati DesertX 2022 offers riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

When it comes to dimensions and weights, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 17 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1525 mm and a seat height of 850 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 249 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters. The range is approximately 421 km, and the combined fuel consumption is 4.75 l/100km. On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1608 mm and a higher seat height of 875 mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 223 kg, and it has a fuel tank capacity of 21 liters. The range is approximately 375 km, and the combined fuel consumption is 5.6 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer various features. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 is equipped with cornering lights, LED headlights, and an adjustable windscreen. It also has a great connectivity app, an easy-to-read display, and practical riding aids. The Ducati DesertX 2022, on the other hand, offers connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display. It also has well-thought-out detail solutions and extensive standard equipment.

Ducati DesertX 2022

In terms of strengths, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offers great ride comfort and ergonomics. It has a powerful engine and a great connectivity app. The display is easy to read, and it provides a confident feel in the saddle. The practical riding aids and versatile chassis make it easy to ride and suitable for various routes. On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a great chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated driving modes, and a powerful engine. It also has powerful brakes and well-thought-out detail solutions. The extensive standard equipment is another advantage.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 has a rough overall appearance, and the gearshifts at low revs can be somewhat clumsy. The Ducati DesertX 2022 may have a smooth running engine in the lower rev range and suspension response slightly behind that of the fork. It also has a very high, non-adjustable seat height and little space with no handholds for a pillion passenger.

In conclusion, the BMW R 1250 GS 2021 and the Ducati DesertX 2022 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own unique features and strengths. The BMW R 1250 GS 2021 offers great ride comfort, a powerful engine, and practical riding aids, while the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a great chassis, sophisticated driving modes, and extensive standard equipment. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.