Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 vs. Ducati DesertX 2022

In terms of engine and drive train, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 features an in-line engine with a bore of 92 mm and a stroke of 81.5 mm. It has an engine power of 102 HP and a torque of 105 Nm. The starter is electric and it has a chain transmission. The bike has 2 cylinders and a displacement of 1084 ccm. On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a V-type engine with a bore of 94 mm and a stroke of 67.5 mm. It has an engine power of 110 HP and a torque of 92 Nm. The starter is also electric and it has a chain transmission. Similar to the Honda, it has 2 cylinders but with a smaller displacement of 937 ccm.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 has Showa suspension components with a front fork diameter of 45 mm and a travel of 230 mm. The rear suspension travel is 220 mm. The suspension can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound. On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2022 has Kayaba suspension components with a front fork diameter of 46 mm and a travel of 230 mm. The rear suspension travel is also 220 mm and it can be adjusted for compression, preload, and rebound.

In terms of chassis, both bikes have a steel frame. However, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 has a double cradle frame type, while the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a tubular frame type. The rake and trail measurements are similar, with the Honda having a rake of 62.5 degrees and a trail of 113 mm, and the Ducati having a rake of 62.4 degrees and a trail of 122 mm.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022

In terms of brakes, both bikes have double disk brakes at the front. The assistance systems on both bikes include riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. However, the Ducati DesertX 2022 also has a shift assistant with blipper, which the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 does not have.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150 mm with a diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase of the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 is 1574 mm, while the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1608 mm. The seat height of the Honda is 850 mm, while the Ducati has a higher seat height of 875 mm. The kerb weight of the Honda is 236 kg, slightly heavier than the Ducati's 223 kg. The fuel tank capacity of the Honda is 18.8 liters, while the Ducati has a larger fuel tank capacity of 21 liters. The range of the Honda is 391 km, while the Ducati has a slightly shorter range of 375 km. The combined fuel consumption of the Honda is 4.8 l/100km, while the Ducati has a higher fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100km.

Ducati DesertX 2022

In terms of equipment, both bikes have connectivity and TFT displays. The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 also has Bluetooth and LED headlights, while the Ducati DesertX 2022 has additional features such as heated grips, LED daytime running lights, and extensive standard equipment.

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 has a high-torque engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT, a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It also has a windshield that is perfect for off-roading. On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2022 has a great chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated driving modes, a powerful engine, powerful brakes, and well-thought-out detail solutions. It also comes with extensive standard equipment.

In terms of weaknesses, the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin DCT 2022 has standard handguards that are not very robust for off-road use. Its electronic operating concept may require familiarization and close examination due to the flood of switches. Additionally, its windshield offers manageable protection. The Ducati DesertX 2022 has a smooth running of the engine in the lower rev range and its suspension response is slightly behind that of the fork. It also has a very high, non-adjustable seat height and little space with no handholds for a pillion passenger.