Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 vs. Ducati DesertX 2022

The Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the Ducati DesertX 2022 are both enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures. While they share some similarities in terms of engine type, transmission, and suspension, they also have distinct differences in their specifications and features.

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 produces 102 horsepower and 105 Nm of torque, providing ample power for off-road riding. On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 2022 features a V-twin engine with a displacement of 937cc. It delivers slightly more power with 110 horsepower but has a lower torque rating of 92 Nm.

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 Africa Twin utilizes Showa suspension components, while the Ducati DesertX uses Kayaba suspension. Both suspension systems offer adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings, allowing riders to fine-tune their riding experience. The front forks on both bikes have a travel of 230mm, while the rear suspension travel is 220mm.

When it comes to the chassis, both motorcycles have a steel frame. However, the Honda Africa Twin has a double cradle frame, while the Ducati DesertX features a tubular frame. Both frames provide stability and durability for off-road riding.

Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disc brakes at the front. The Honda Africa Twin does not specify the type of brakes used, while the Ducati DesertX features powerful brakes that provide excellent stopping power.

In terms of advanced rider assistance systems, both motorcycles offer a range of features. The Honda Africa Twin includes ABS, riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The Ducati DesertX 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 a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire width of 150mm. The Honda Africa Twin has a rear tire diameter of 18 inches, while the Ducati DesertX has a slightly larger rear tire diameter of 18 inches. The wheelbase of the Honda Africa Twin is 1574mm, while the Ducati DesertX has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1608mm. The seat height of the Honda Africa Twin is 850mm, while the Ducati DesertX has a higher seat height of 875mm. The Honda Africa Twin has a kerb weight of 226kg, while the Ducati DesertX is slightly lighter at 223kg. The fuel tank capacity of the Honda Africa Twin is 18.8 liters, while the Ducati DesertX has a larger fuel tank capacity of 21 liters. The range of the Honda Africa Twin is 383km, while the Ducati DesertX has a slightly shorter range of 375km. The combined fuel consumption of the Honda Africa Twin is 4.9 l/100km, while the Ducati DesertX has a higher fuel consumption of 5.6 l/100km.

Ducati DesertX 2022

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

In terms of strengths, the Honda Africa Twin has a powerful engine, sophisticated electronic driving aids, a wonderfully functioning DCT (optional), a touch-screen color display, good ergonomics, and long-distance capability. It also has a windshield that is good for off-road riding. On the other hand, the Ducati DesertX 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 Africa Twin has an operating concept of the electronics that is not very clear and intuitive. Its handguards are not very robust for off-road use, and the windshield offers manageable protection. The ergonomics are also not ideal for standing riding. The Ducati DesertX has a smooth running of the engine in the lower rev range, and the suspension response is slightly behind that of the fork. It also has a very high, non-adjustable seat height and little space and no handholds for a pillion passenger.

In conclusion, both the Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin 2023 and the Ducati DesertX 2022 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Honda Africa Twin offers a powerful engine, sophisticated electronics, and good ergonomics, while the Ducati DesertX boasts a great chassis, powerful brakes, and extensive standard equipment. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.