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 powerful engines and advanced features.

Starting with the Ducati DesertX 2022, it is equipped with a V-type engine that has a displacement of 937cc. The engine produces 110 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque, providing ample power for off-road adventures. The DesertX also features a chain transmission and an electric start for convenience. The suspension system includes a telescopic upside-down fork with 46mm diameter and 230mm travel in the front, and a swingarm with a monoshock and 220mm travel in the rear. The chassis is made of steel and has a rake of 62.4 degrees and a trail of 122mm. The front brakes are dual disc type. In terms of advanced assistance systems, the DesertX offers various modes of riding, ABS for curves, ride-by-wire, shift assistant, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The dimensions and weights of the DesertX include a 21-inch front tire, 150mm width rear tire, 1608mm wheelbase, 875mm seat height, and a curb weight of 223kg. The fuel tank capacity is 21 liters, providing a range of 375km. The combined fuel consumption is 5.6 l/100km. Additional equipment includes connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT screen.

Ducati DesertX 2022

On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 features an inline engine with a displacement of 1084cc. The engine delivers 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque, offering strong performance on and off the road. Similar to the DesertX, the Africa Twin has a chain transmission and an electric start. The suspension system consists of a telescopic upside-down fork with 45mm diameter and 230mm travel in the front, and a swingarm with a monoshock and 220mm travel in the rear. The chassis is made of steel and has a twin-spar frame design with a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm. The front brakes are dual disc type. The Africa Twin is equipped with ABS, various riding modes, ABS for curves, ride-by-wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie as advanced assistance systems. The dimensions and weights of the Africa Twin include a 21-inch front tire, 150mm width rear tire, 1574mm wheelbase, 850mm seat height, and a curb weight of 226kg. The fuel tank capacity is 18.8 liters, providing a range of 383km. The combined fuel consumption is 4.9 l/100km. Additional equipment includes Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT screen.

In terms of strengths, the Ducati DesertX 2022 excels in its excellent chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated riding modes, powerful engine, strong brakes, well-thought-out details, and extensive standard equipment. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 stands out with its powerful engine, sophisticated electronic riding aids, smooth operation of the optional DCT, color touchscreen, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and off-road-friendly windshield.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Ducati DesertX 2022 has a slightly less 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. On the other hand, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 has a less clear and intuitive electronic system operation concept, less robust handguards for off-road use, a windshield that offers reasonable protection, and less than ideal ergonomics for standing riding.

In conclusion, both the Ducati DesertX 2022 and the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2022 offer powerful engines, advanced features, and capable off-road performance. The choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities, such as the desired level of electronic assistance, suspension characteristics, seat height, and overall ergonomics.