Ducati DesertX 2022 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

The Ducati DesertX 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures. While they have some similarities, they also have distinct differences in terms of their technical specifications and features.

Starting with the technical specifications, both motorcycles have a V-type engine and chain transmission. The Ducati DesertX has a 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 937cc, producing 110 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a 2-cylinder engine with a larger displacement of 1301cc, delivering 160 horsepower and 138 Nm of torque. This makes the KTM more powerful and capable of higher performance.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature a telescopic upside-down fork at the front and a swingarm with a monoshock at the rear. The Ducati DesertX is equipped with a Kayaba suspension system, with a 46mm diameter fork and 230mm of travel at the front, and a 220mm travel monoshock at the rear. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S, on the other hand, comes with a WP suspension system, with a 48mm diameter fork and 200mm of travel at the front, and a 200mm travel monoshock at the rear. While the Ducati DesertX offers slightly more travel, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a suspension that can be electronically adjusted for added convenience.

Ducati DesertX 2022

In terms of chassis, the Ducati DesertX features a steel frame with a tubular design, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a chromium-molybdenum frame. The rake angle, which affects the motorcycle's handling, is 62.4 degrees for the Ducati and 65.3 degrees for the KTM. This means that the KTM has a slightly sharper turning behavior.

Both motorcycles are equipped with Brembo dual-disc brakes at the front, providing powerful stopping power. The Ducati DesertX offers advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, cornering ABS, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S also has similar rider assistance systems, including electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, cornering ABS, cruise control, and traction control.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Ducati DesertX has a 21-inch front tire, a 150mm wide rear tire, a wheelbase of 1608mm, and a seat height of 875mm. It weighs 202kg dry and 223kg with ABS. The fuel tank has a capacity of 21 liters, providing a range of 375km. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S has a 19-inch front tire, a 170mm wide rear tire, a wheelbase of 1560mm, and a seat height of 849mm. It weighs 220kg dry and 243kg with ABS. The fuel tank has a capacity of 23 liters, providing a range of 416km. While the KTM has a slightly larger fuel tank and longer range, the Ducati has a higher seat height.

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles come with modern features such as LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and TFT screens. The Ducati DesertX also offers connectivity, heated grips, and additional LED lights. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S includes curve lights, an adjustable windshield, and a large 7-inch TFT display.

In summary, the Ducati DesertX 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2021 are both capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Ducati offers an excellent chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated riding modes, a powerful engine, and extensive standard equipment. However, it has a slightly smoother low-end engine operation, slightly inferior suspension response, a very high and non-adjustable seat height, and limited passenger space. On the other hand, the KTM provides a sporty yet refined V2 powertrain, extremely accessible handling despite its weight, a comfortable riding position, good brakes including cornering ABS, a complete electronic package, and a clear and well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display. However, it has somewhat slower turning behavior, opaque packaging design, and pricing policy, and the instrument panels and switches may not be of high quality. Ultimately, the choice between these two motorcycles will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.