Ducati DesertX 2023 vs. Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

Ducati DesertX 2023

Ducati DesertX 2023

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

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Overview - Ducati DesertX 2023 vs Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

The Ducati DesertX 2023 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive features and capabilities for off-road adventures. However, they have distinct differences in terms of technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the Ducati DesertX 2023, it is equipped with a V-twin engine that delivers 110 HP of power and 92 Nm of torque. The engine has a displacement of 937ccm and is paired with a chain transmission. The DesertX features a steel tubular frame, providing stability and durability. It has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 46mm and a travel of 230mm. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and has a travel of 220mm. The DesertX is equipped with double disk brakes with Brembo brand on the front. It offers advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The motorcycle has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm. It has a wheelbase of 1608mm and a seat height of 875mm. The DesertX weighs 223kg (kerb weight with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 21 liters. It also features connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 is equipped with a V-twin engine that delivers a higher power output of 151.98 HP and torque of 128 Nm. The engine has a displacement of 1252ccm and is also paired with a chain transmission. The Pan America features an aluminum double cradle frame, providing a lightweight yet sturdy structure. It has an upside-down telescopic fork front suspension with a diameter of 47mm and a travel of 191mm. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock and has the same travel as the front suspension. The Pan America is equipped with double disk brakes with Brembo brand on the front. It offers advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, and traction control. The motorcycle has a front tire diameter of 19 inches and a rear tire width of 170mm. It has a wheelbase of 1585mm and a seat height of 850mm. The Pan America weighs 258kg (kerb weight with ABS) and has a fuel tank capacity of 21.2 liters. It also features Bluetooth, connectivity, heated grips, cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

Ducati DesertX 2023

Ducati DesertX 2023

In terms of strengths, the Ducati DesertX 2023 excels in its chassis with fully adjustable suspension, allowing riders to fine-tune their riding experience. It also offers sophisticated driving modes, providing versatility for various terrains. The DesertX has a powerful engine and brake, ensuring excellent performance and control. Additionally, it has well-thought-out detail solutions and comes with extensive standard equipment, enhancing the overall riding experience.

On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 boasts a sporty power unit and a comfortable seating position, providing a thrilling yet comfortable ride. It offers comprehensive electronics, including cornering ABS and traction control as standard, ensuring safety and stability. The Pan America has a distinctive look, showcasing the iconic Harley-Davidson design. It also offers optional seat lowering when stationary, catering to riders with different height preferences.

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Ducati DesertX 2023 may have a smooth running issue in the lower rev range and its suspension response may be slightly behind that of the fork. It also has a very high, non-adjustable seat height, which may pose challenges for shorter riders. Additionally, it lacks space and handholds for pillion riders, limiting the motorcycle's passenger capacity.

On the other hand, the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 may have workmanship and haptics that are below average in some areas. The quickshifter is an optional extra and may not be perfect in its performance. The windshield is also considered too high for off-road use, potentially affecting visibility and maneuverability in certain situations.

In conclusion, the Ducati DesertX 2023 and the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 are both impressive enduro motorcycles with their unique strengths and weaknesses. Riders should consider their specific preferences and requirements to choose the motorcycle that best suits their needs and riding style.

Technical Specifications Ducati DesertX 2023 compared to Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

Ducati DesertX 2023
Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

Engine and Drive Train

Engine typeEngine typeVEngine typeV
BoreBore94 mmBore105 mm
StrokeStroke67.5 mmStroke72 mm
Engine powerEngine power110 HPEngine power151.98 HP
Rpm at Max. PowerRpm at Max. Power9,250 rpmRpm at Max. Power8,750 rpm
TorqueTorque92 NmTorque128 Nm
Rpm at TorqueRpm at Torque6,500 rpmRpm at Torque6,750 rpm
Compression RatioCompression Ratio13.3 Compression Ratio13
Fuel systemFuel systemInjectionFuel systemInjection
StarterStarterElectricStarterElectric
Clutch TypeClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath, AntihoppingClutch TypeMultiplate in oil-bath
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
Transmission TypeTransmission TypeGearshiftTransmission TypeGearshift
Number of gearsNumber of gears6Number of gears6
CylindersCylinders2Cylinders2
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
Valves per cylinderValves per cylinder4Valves per cylinder4
ValvesValvesDesmodromic, DOHCValvesDOHC
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement937 ccmDisplacement1,252 ccm

Assistance Systems

Advanced Rider Assistance SystemsAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsRiding modes, Cornering ABS, Ride by Wire, Shift assistant with blipper, Cruise control, Traction control, Anti-wheelieAdvanced Rider Assistance SystemsABS, Suspension electronically adjustable, Riding modes, Cornering ABS, Ride by Wire, Cruise control, Traction control

Dimensions and Weights

Front tyre widthFront tyre width90 mmFront tyre width120 mm
Front tyre heightFront tyre height90 %Front tyre height70 %
Front tyre diameterFront tyre diameter21 inchFront tyre diameter19 inch
Rear tyre widthRear tyre width150 mmRear tyre width170 mm
Rear tyre heightRear tyre height70 %Rear tyre height60 %
Rear tyre diameterRear tyre diameter18 inchRear tyre diameter17 inch
WheelbaseWheelbase1,608 mmWheelbase1,585 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height875 mmSeat Height850 mm
Dry Weight (with ABS)Dry Weight (with ABS)202 kgDry Weight (with ABS)242 kg
Kerb Weight (with ABS)Kerb Weight (with ABS)223 kgKerb Weight (with ABS)258 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity21 lFuel Tank Capacity21.2 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyA2, ALicense compliancyA
RangeRange375 kmRange432 km
Combined fuel consumptionCombined fuel consumption5.6 l/100kmCombined fuel consumption4.9 l/100km

Equipment

EquipmentEquipmentConnectivity, Heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED-Headlights, TFT displayEquipmentBluetooth, Connectivity, Heated grips, Cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED-Headlights, TFT display, Windscreen adjustable

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Ducati DesertX 2023

Ducati DesertX 2023

The new DesertX is the latest Ducati model to be powered by the new 890cc V2 engine. And it is also the model that benefits most from the new engine. It remains as sporty, adventurous and stable as ever, but thanks to its user-friendly engine, it also excels in everyday riding and on more off-road terrain. The biggest area for improvement is long-distance comfort, though that’s really just nit-picking. The new DesertX is a very well-rounded package, offering plenty of performance both on and off the tarmac and with hardly any notable weaknesses.

A V2 engine that is very easy to control yet sporty and revvy

strong torque at low revs

very good gear ratios

high chassis stability

very good off-road ergonomics

finely tuned electronics

good feel for the front wheel

precise modulation of the front brake

practical improvements compared to the previous model

cruise control, quickshifter and USB-A and USB-C as standard

Wind protection at 1.85 m is rather average

the quickshifter can be a bit sensitive to accidental contact with boots

the rear brake has a long free travel

the passenger footrest gets in the way a bit with large boots

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023

Even though it is clearly not a rally bike, the Harley Davidson Pan America 1250 knows how to impress with its powerful engine and good balance. It has plenty of traction on gravel and rolls very stably over larger scooters. Due to the 19 inch front wheel and the height of the bike, however, the the Harley soon reaches its limits in technical passages. On the flat, you should also be careful that the sensitive cast aluminium rims are not knocked into corners by potholes. All in all, however, the Harley is surprisingly off-road capable and robust for its dimensions.

Powerful, responsive engine

lush, modern electronics

semi-active suspension

good ergonomics despite the wide fuel tank

cornering ABS as standard, cornering TC as standard

optional seat lowering when stationary

19-inch front wheel suffers in off-road use

workmanship and feel partly below average

quickshifter at extra cost and not perfect

Price Comparison Average Market Price Ducati DesertX vs Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special

There are a few key differences between a Ducati DesertX 2023 and a Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023. In terms of price, the actual average price of a Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 is about 38% higher. Compared to Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special 2023 there are more Ducati DesertX 2023 bikes available on the 1000PS.de Marketplace, specifically 47 compared to 7. It takes less time to sell a Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special with 11 days compared to 78 days for the Ducati DesertX. Since model year 2022 1000PS.de editors have written 21 reviews for the Ducati DesertX and 18 reviews for the Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special since model year 2021. The first review for the Ducati DesertX was published on 12/9/2021 and now has more than 71,700 views. This compares to more than 61,800 views for the first review on Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special published on 2/22/2021.

Price Ducati DesertX

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Harley-Davidson Pan America 1250 Special

Model year
Current average market prices

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