Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 vs. Ducati DesertX 2022

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the Ducati DesertX 2022 are both enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures. They have several similarities in terms of their technical specifications, but also have some distinct differences.

In terms of engine and drive train, both motorcycles have a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of around 1000cc. However, the Honda Africa Twin has a slightly larger bore and stroke compared to the Ducati DesertX. The Honda Africa Twin also has a higher engine power of 102 HP, while the Ducati DesertX has a power output of 110 HP. On the other hand, the Honda Africa Twin has a higher torque of 105 Nm compared to the Ducati DesertX's torque of 92 Nm. Both motorcycles have an electric starter and use a chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles have upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The Honda Africa Twin uses Showa suspension components, while the Ducati DesertX uses Kayaba components. Both motorcycles have similar front suspension travel of 230 mm and rear suspension travel of 220 mm. They also have adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings for the suspension.

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. However, the Honda Africa Twin has a double cradle frame, while the Ducati DesertX has a tubular frame. Both motorcycles have a similar rake angle, but the Ducati DesertX has a longer trail measurement compared to the Honda Africa Twin.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles have double disk brakes at the front. The Ducati DesertX is described as having powerful brakes, while no specific information is provided about the Honda Africa Twin's braking performance.

Both motorcycles have advanced rider assistance systems, including ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The Ducati DesertX also has additional features such as a shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, and connectivity.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm. The Honda Africa Twin has a slightly smaller rear tire diameter of 18 inches compared to the Ducati DesertX's 18-inch rear tire. The Honda Africa Twin has a wheelbase of 1575 mm, while the Ducati DesertX has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1608 mm. The seat height of the Honda Africa Twin is 850 mm, while the Ducati DesertX has a higher seat height of 875 mm. The Honda Africa Twin also has a higher kerb weight of 236 kg compared to the Ducati DesertX's weight of 223 kg. Both motorcycles have a fuel tank capacity of around 18-21 liters.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles have LED headlights. The Ducati DesertX has additional features such as heated grips, LED daytime running lights, and a TFT display.

In terms of strengths, the Honda Africa Twin is praised for its high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, and the performance of its dual-clutch transmission (DCT). It also has good ergonomics and is considered suitable for long-distance rides. The windshield of the Honda Africa Twin is also said to be perfect for off-roading.

Ducati DesertX 2022

The Ducati DesertX is praised for its great chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated driving modes, and powerful engine. It also has powerful brakes and well-thought-out detail solutions. The Ducati DesertX comes with extensive standard equipment, including connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, and a TFT display.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda Africa Twin is criticized for its handguards, which are not very robust for off-road use. It also has a flood of switches on the left handlebar, which may be overwhelming for some riders. Additionally, the windshield of the Honda Africa Twin is said to offer only manageable protection.

The Ducati DesertX is criticized for the smooth running of its engine in the lower rev range. The suspension response of the Ducati DesertX is also said to be slightly behind that of the fork. The seat height of the Ducati DesertX is very high and non-adjustable, which may be a disadvantage for shorter riders. Furthermore, the Ducati DesertX has little space and no handholds for a pillion passenger.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2020 and the Ducati DesertX 2022 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin excels in terms of its high-torque engine, electronic driving aids, and DCT performance, while the Ducati DesertX offers a great chassis, powerful engine, and extensive standard equipment. Riders should consider their specific preferences and requirements when choosing between these two motorcycles.