Ducati DesertX 2022 vs. KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

The Ducati DesertX 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive features and performance.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Ducati DesertX 2022 is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 937ccm, producing 110 HP of power and 92 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 boasts a more powerful V-twin engine with a displacement of 1301ccm, delivering 160 HP of power and 138 Nm of torque. This gives the KTM an advantage in terms of sheer power and performance.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The Ducati DesertX 2022 is equipped with Kayaba suspension components, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 features WP suspension components. The KTM offers slightly less travel in the front and rear suspension compared to the Ducati, but it compensates with electronically adjustable suspension, allowing for a more customizable riding experience.

In terms of chassis, the Ducati DesertX 2022 features a steel tubular frame with a rake of 62.4 degrees, while the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 features a chromium-molybdenum tubular frame with a rake of 65.3 degrees. Both frames are designed to provide stability and durability, but the KTM's frame offers a slightly steeper rake, which may contribute to its more playful handling.

Ducati DesertX 2022

When it comes to brakes, both motorcycles are equipped with double disk brakes at the front, branded by Brembo. This ensures powerful and reliable braking performance for both models.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer a range of features. The Ducati DesertX 2022 comes with riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 offers suspension electronically adjustable, riding modes, cornering ABS, radar cruise control, ride by wire, and traction control. The KTM also has the advantage of adaptive cruise control (ACC), which is a unique and advanced feature in this segment.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a front tire diameter of 21 inches, a rear tire width of 150 mm, a wheelbase of 1608 mm, and a seat height of 875 mm. It has a dry weight of 202 kg and a kerb weight of 223 kg. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has a front tire diameter of 19 inches, a rear tire width of 170 mm, a wheelbase of 1560 mm, and a seat height of 849 mm. It has a dry weight of 220 kg and a kerb weight of 243 kg. The KTM offers a slightly smaller front tire diameter and a wider rear tire, which may contribute to its handling characteristics.

In terms of fuel capacity and range, the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a fuel tank capacity of 21 liters, offering a range of 375 km. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has a larger fuel tank capacity of 23 liters, offering a range of 416 km. This gives the KTM an advantage in terms of longer range, which can be beneficial for long-distance touring.

KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023

Both motorcycles come with a range of equipment and features. The Ducati DesertX 2022 offers connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 offers connectivity, keyless system, cornering lights, LED headlights, a TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen. The KTM also features a larger 7-inch display, which provides a clear and well-structured interface for the rider.

In terms of strengths, the Ducati DesertX 2022 excels in its chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated driving modes, a powerful engine, powerful brakes, well-thought-out detail solutions, and extensive standard equipment. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 stands out with its very sporty yet cultivated V2 power plant, extremely playful handling despite its high weight, comfortable driving-friendly seating position, good brakes including cornering ABS, comprehensive electronics package, adaptive cruise control (ACC), and a clear, well-structured instrumentation with a huge 7-inch display.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Ducati DesertX 2022 may have a slightly rougher engine performance 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 and lacks space and handholds for a pillion passenger. On the other hand, the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 has some features like the gearshift assistant available at an extra cost. It also has an idiosyncratic look and a stiff seat bench.

In conclusion, both the Ducati DesertX 2022 and the KTM 1290 Super Adventure S 2023 offer impressive features and performance in the enduro motorcycle segment. The Ducati excels in its chassis and detail solutions, while the KTM offers a more powerful engine, adaptive cruise control, and a larger display. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.