Ducati DesertX 2022 vs. BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019

When comparing the Ducati DesertX 2022 and the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019, there are several factors to consider.

In terms of the motor and drivetrain, the Ducati DesertX has a V-type engine with a bore of 94 mm and a stroke of 67.5 mm, producing 110 HP of power and 92 Nm of torque. The BMW F 850 GS Adventure, on the other hand, has an inline engine with a bore of 84 mm and a stroke of 77 mm, producing 95 HP of power and 92 Nm of torque. Both bikes have an electric start and chain transmission.

In terms of suspension, both bikes have a telescopic fork front suspension with a travel of 230 mm. The Ducati DesertX has a 46 mm diameter fork, while the BMW F 850 GS Adventure has a slightly smaller 43 mm diameter fork. In terms of rear suspension, both bikes have a swingarm suspension with a monoshock, but the Ducati DesertX has a slightly longer travel of 220 mm compared to the BMW F 850 GS Adventure's 215 mm. The Ducati DesertX also offers adjustment options for compression, preload, and recovery, while the BMW F 850 GS Adventure only offers preload and recovery adjustment.

Ducati DesertX 2022

In terms of chassis, both bikes have a steel frame with a tubular design. The Ducati DesertX has a rake of 62.4 degrees and a trail of 122 mm, while the BMW F 850 GS Adventure has a slightly smaller rake of 62 degrees and a slightly larger trail of 124.6 mm.

In terms of braking, both bikes have dual disc front brakes. The Ducati DesertX offers advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, cornering ABS, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The BMW F 850 GS Adventure also offers ABS, traction control, riding modes, and ride-by-wire.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a 21-inch front tire diameter and a 150 mm width rear tire. The Ducati DesertX has an 18-inch rear tire diameter, while the BMW F 850 GS Adventure has a slightly smaller 17-inch rear tire diameter. The Ducati DesertX has a longer wheelbase of 1608 mm compared to the BMW F 850 GS Adventure's 1593 mm. Both bikes have a seat height of 875 mm. The Ducati DesertX has a curb weight of 223 kg with ABS, while the BMW F 850 GS Adventure has a slightly heavier curb weight of 244 kg with ABS. The Ducati DesertX has a fuel tank capacity of 21 liters, while the BMW F 850 GS Adventure has a larger capacity of 23 liters.

BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019

In terms of strengths, the Ducati DesertX offers an excellent chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated riding modes, a powerful engine, strong brakes, well-thought-out details, and extensive standard equipment. The BMW F 850 GS Adventure excels in smooth and silky engine performance, top-notch ergonomics and comfort, suitability for touring, and off-road capability, and is technically very mature.

However, the Ducati DesertX has some weaknesses, including smooth engine operation in the lower rpm range, slightly inferior suspension response compared to the fork, a very high and non-adjustable seat height, and limited space and no grab handles for the passenger. The BMW F 850 GS Adventure's weaknesses include a high price with additional equipment, a less exciting engine performance, non-adjustable fork, and a relatively high weight.

In conclusion, both the Ducati DesertX 2022 and the BMW F 850 GS Adventure 2019 have their strengths and weaknesses. The Ducati DesertX offers a powerful and well-equipped package with some minor drawbacks, while the BMW F 850 GS Adventure provides a smooth and comfortable touring experience with some trade-offs in terms of price and weight. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.