Ducati DesertX 2022 vs. KTM 890 Adventure R 2023

The Ducati DesertX 2022 and the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 are both enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures. They have similar engine types, with the Ducati DesertX featuring a V engine and the KTM 890 Adventure R having an inline engine.

In terms of engine specifications, the Ducati DesertX has a larger bore of 94 mm compared to the KTM's 90.7 mm. However, the KTM has a slightly longer stroke of 68.8 mm compared to the Ducati's 67.5 mm. The engine power of the Ducati DesertX is 110 HP, while the KTM 890 Adventure R has 105 HP. The torque of the Ducati is 92 Nm, while the KTM has a higher torque of 100 Nm. Both motorcycles have electric starters and chain transmissions.

When it comes to suspension, the Ducati DesertX is equipped with a Kayaba upside-down telescopic fork with a diameter of 46 mm and a travel of 230 mm. The rear suspension features a Kayaba monoshock with a travel of 220 mm. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R has a WP upside-down telescopic fork with a larger diameter of 48 mm and a travel of 240 mm. The rear suspension also features a WP monoshock with a travel of 240 mm. Both motorcycles offer compression, preload, and rebound adjustments for the suspension.

In terms of chassis, the Ducati DesertX has a steel tubular frame with a rake of 62.4 degrees. The KTM 890 Adventure R features a chromium-molybdenum tubular frame with a slightly steeper rake of 63.7 degrees.

Ducati DesertX 2022

Both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front and similar tire specifications with a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150 mm rear tire width. The Ducati DesertX has an 18-inch rear tire diameter, while the KTM has the same 21-inch rear tire diameter as the front.

In terms of rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer advanced features such as riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, and traction control. The Ducati DesertX also includes a shift assistant with a blipper, cruise control, and anti-wheelie, while the KTM 890 Adventure R offers ABS and traction control depending on lean angle.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Ducati DesertX has a wheelbase of 1608 mm and a seat height of 875 mm. It has a dry weight (with ABS) of 202 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 21 liters, providing a range of 375 km. The combined fuel consumption is 5.6 l/100km. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1528 mm and a slightly higher seat height of 880 mm. It has a dry weight (with ABS) of 196 kg and a fuel tank capacity of 20 liters, providing a range of 444 km. The combined fuel consumption is 4.5 l/100km.

KTM 890 Adventure R 2023

Both motorcycles are equipped with connectivity, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and TFT displays. The Ducati DesertX also includes heated grips, while the KTM 890 Adventure R offers Quickshifter+ at an additional cost.

In terms of strengths, the Ducati DesertX has a great chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated driving modes, a powerful engine, powerful brakes, well-thought-out detail solutions, and an extensive standard equipment list. On the other hand, the KTM 890 Adventure R boasts an off-road capable chassis, harmonious ergonomics (especially for tall pilots), agile handling, a powerful engine, a comprehensive electronics package, cornering ABS including an off-road mode as standard, and finely controllable brakes with traction control depending on lean angle.

As for weaknesses, the Ducati DesertX has a smoother running engine in the lower rev range, slightly slower suspension response compared to the fork, a very high non-adjustable seat height, and little space and no handholds for a pillion passenger. The KTM 890 Adventure R has a standard seat that is rather hard padded, a seat height that may be challenging for small riders, and useful features such as Quickshifter+ that come at an extra cost.

In conclusion, both the Ducati DesertX 2022 and the KTM 890 Adventure R 2023 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The choice between the two would depend on the rider's preferences, priorities, and specific requirements.