Ducati DesertX 2022 vs. Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

The Ducati DesertX 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and advanced features. However, there are some key differences between the two models.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Ducati DesertX is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 937cc, producing 110 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin features an in-line twin engine with a displacement of 1084cc, delivering 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, the Ducati DesertX comes with an upside-down telescopic fork from Kayaba with a diameter of 46mm and a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension features a swing arm with a monoshock from Kayaba and a travel of 220mm. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin is equipped with an upside-down telescopic fork from Showa with a diameter of 45mm and a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension also features a swing arm with a monoshock from Showa and a travel of 220mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound.

Ducati DesertX 2022

In terms of chassis, both the Ducati DesertX and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin have steel frames. However, the Ducati DesertX features a tubular frame, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin has a double cradle frame. The rake and trail measurements are also slightly different, with the Ducati DesertX having a rake of 62.4 degrees and a trail of 122mm, while the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin has a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm.

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front. The Ducati DesertX and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin both offer advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Ducati DesertX has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1608mm, a seat height of 875mm, and a kerb weight (with ABS) of 223kg. The fuel tank capacity is 21 liters, offering a range of 375km. The combined fuel consumption is 5.6 l/100km. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150mm, and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches. It has a wheelbase of 1574mm, a seat height of 850mm, and a kerb weight (with ABS) of 226kg. The fuel tank capacity is 18.8 liters, offering a range of 383km. The combined fuel consumption is 4.9 l/100km.

In terms of equipment, the Ducati DesertX offers connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin offers Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

In terms of strengths, the Ducati DesertX excels in its great chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated driving modes, powerful engine, powerful brakes, well-thought-out detail solutions, and extensive standard equipment. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin stands out with its powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, wonderfully functioning DCT (optional), touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and a windshield that is suitable for off-road riding.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Ducati DesertX has a smooth running of the engine in the lower rev range, slightly delayed suspension response, a very high and non-adjustable seat height, and limited space and no handholds for a pillion passenger. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin has an operating concept of the electronics that is not very clear and intuitive, less robust handguards for off-road use, a windshield that offers manageable protection, and ergonomics that are not ideal for standing riding.

In conclusion, the Ducati DesertX 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific riding needs when choosing between the two models.