Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 vs. Ducati DesertX 2023

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the Ducati DesertX 2023 are both enduro motorcycles that offer impressive performance and advanced features. However, they have some key differences that set them apart.

Starting with the engine, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 is equipped with an in-line, 2-cylinder engine with a displacement of 1084cc. It delivers a power output of 102 HP and a torque of 105 Nm. On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2023 features a V-twin engine with a displacement of 937cc. It offers a slightly higher power output of 110 HP but a lower torque of 92 Nm. Both bikes have electric starters and chain transmissions.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 is equipped with Showa suspension components, including a 45mm diameter fork with 230mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension offers 220mm of travel and the same adjustable settings. On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2023 features Kayaba suspension components, including a 46mm diameter fork with 230mm of travel and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension also offers 220mm of travel and the same adjustable settings.

In terms of chassis, both motorcycles have steel frames. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 features a double cradle frame, while the Ducati DesertX 2023 features a tubular frame. The rake and trail measurements are also slightly different, with the Honda having a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113mm, and the Ducati having a rake of 62.4 degrees and a trail of 122mm.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

When it comes to braking, both motorcycles have double disc brakes at the front. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 does not provide specific details about the brake type, while the Ducati DesertX 2023 also has double disc brakes but does not specify the size or type.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer a range of features. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 includes ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The Ducati DesertX 2023 also offers riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both motorcycles have 21-inch front tires and 18-inch rear tires with a width of 150mm. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 has a wheelbase of 1574mm and a seat height ranging from 850mm to 870mm. It has a curb weight (with ABS) of 226kg and a fuel tank capacity of 18.8 liters, offering a range of 383km. The Ducati DesertX 2023 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1608mm and a higher seat height ranging from 875mm to 890mm. It has a curb weight (with ABS) of 223kg and a larger fuel tank capacity of 21 liters, offering a range of 375km.

Ducati DesertX 2023

In terms of equipment, both motorcycles offer modern features. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 includes Bluetooth connectivity, LED headlights, and a TFT display. The Ducati DesertX 2023 offers connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 is praised for its powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, optional DCT transmission, touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, long-distance capability, and a windshield that is suitable for off-road riding. On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2023 is praised for its great chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated driving modes, powerful engine, powerful brakes, well-thought-out detail solutions, and extensive standard equipment.

However, both motorcycles have their weaknesses. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 is criticized for its unclear and unintuitive operating concept of the electronics, not very robust handguards for off-road use, a windshield that offers limited protection, and ergonomics that are not ideal for standing riding. The Ducati DesertX 2023 is criticized for its smooth running of the engine in the lower rev range, slightly delayed suspension response compared to the fork, a very high non-adjustable seat height, and limited space and no handholds for pillion riders.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the Ducati DesertX 2023 are impressive enduro motorcycles with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Honda offers a powerful engine, advanced electronics, and good ergonomics, while the Ducati offers a great chassis, sophisticated driving modes, and extensive standard equipment. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.