Ducati DesertX 2022 vs. Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017

The Ducati DesertX 2022 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 are both enduro motorcycles with similar technical specifications. However, there are some notable differences between the two models.

Starting with the Ducati DesertX 2022, it has a V-type engine with a bore of 94 mm and a stroke of 67.5 mm. It produces 110 HP of power and 92 Nm of torque. The engine is started electrically and is mated to a chain transmission. The DesertX has a displacement of 937 ccm and features a two-cylinder configuration. The front suspension is an upside-down telescopic fork from Kayaba, which can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock, also from Kayaba, with the same adjustment options. The frame is made of steel, and the front brakes are double disk from Brembo. The DesertX is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is 1608 mm, and the seat height is 875 mm. The dry weight (with ABS) is 202 kg, and the kerb weight (with ABS) is 223 kg. The fuel tank capacity is 21 liters.

Ducati DesertX 2022

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 has an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 75.1 mm. It produces 95 HP of power and 98 Nm of torque. The engine is also started electrically and is mated to a chain transmission. Like the DesertX, the Africa Twin has a two-cylinder configuration. The front suspension is an upside-down telescopic fork from Showa, which can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. The rear suspension is a swing arm with a monoshock, also from Showa, with the same adjustment options. The frame is made of steel, and the front brakes are double disk from Nissin. The Africa Twin is equipped with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS and traction control. It has the same tire dimensions as the DesertX, with a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase is slightly shorter at 1575 mm, and the seat height is 850 mm. The dry weight (with ABS) is 212 kg, and the kerb weight (with ABS) is 232 kg. The fuel tank capacity is 18.8 liters.

In terms of strengths, the Ducati DesertX 2022 stands out 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. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 is praised for its comfortable yet engaging ride, perfectly dimensioned engine, and slightly lower seat height, which can be beneficial for riders of average height.

Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Ducati DesertX 2022 is criticized for its smooth running of the engine in the lower rev range, slightly delayed suspension response, very high and non-adjustable seat height, and lack of space and handholds for a pillion passenger. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 is noted for its suspension elements being too comfortably tuned at high speeds, and its traction control being annoying off-road, requiring constant readjustment after short breaks.

In conclusion, while both the Ducati DesertX 2022 and the Honda CRF1000L Africa Twin 2017 are capable enduro motorcycles, they have their own strengths and weaknesses. The DesertX offers a more powerful engine and advanced rider assistance systems, while the Africa Twin provides a comfortable and engaging ride. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.