Ducati DesertX 2023 vs. BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

The Ducati DesertX 2023 and BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 are both enduro motorcycles that offer powerful engines and advanced rider assistance systems. However, they have some key differences in terms of technical specifications and strengths.

Starting with the Ducati DesertX 2023, it is equipped with a V-type engine with a displacement of 937cc. It delivers 110 HP of power and 92 Nm of torque, providing a strong and responsive performance. The engine is paired with a chain transmission and features an electric starter. The DesertX has a steel tubular frame and a front suspension with upside-down telescopic forks, offering a travel of 230mm and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The rear suspension consists of a swing arm with a monoshock, providing a travel of 220mm and adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings. The DesertX is equipped with double disk brakes at the front and has advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. It has a 21-inch front tire, 18-inch rear tire, and a wheelbase of 1608mm. The seat height is adjustable from 875mm to 890mm, and the bike has a kerb weight of 223kg. It also features connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 is equipped with a boxer-type engine with a displacement of 1254cc. It delivers a higher power of 136 HP and torque of 143 Nm, providing even more impressive acceleration. The engine is paired with a prop shaft transmission and also features an electric starter. The R 1250 GS Adventure has a steel frame with a load-bearing engine design. It has a front suspension with telelever forks, offering a travel of 210mm and adjustable preload settings. The rear suspension consists of a single swing arm with a monoshock, providing a travel of 220mm and adjustable preload and rebound settings. The bike is equipped with double disk brakes at the front and has advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, anti-slipping control, hill start assist, electronically adjustable suspension, riding modes, and ride by wire. It has a 19-inch front tire, 17-inch rear tire, and a wheelbase of 1504mm. The seat height is adjustable from 890mm to 910mm, and the bike has a higher kerb weight of 268kg. It features cornering lights, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, a heated seat, TFT display, and an adjustable windscreen.

Ducati DesertX 2023

In terms of strengths, the Ducati DesertX 2023 offers a great chassis with fully adjustable suspension, allowing riders to fine-tune their riding experience. It also has sophisticated driving modes that enhance performance and handling. The powerful engine and brakes provide excellent acceleration and stopping power. The DesertX also has well-thought-out detail solutions and extensive standard equipment, including connectivity, heated grips, LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, and a TFT display.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a high-torque engine that accelerates strongly from low revs, making it ideal for off-road adventures. The bike's low center of gravity ensures surprisingly accessible maneuverability, even with its higher weight. It also offers practical details for frequent riders, such as cornering lights, a heated seat, and an adjustable windscreen. The R 1250 GS Adventure has a gigantic range of 600km and impressively low fuel consumption. It provides great ride comfort, thanks to its powerful engine, great electronics, and easy-to-read display. The bike also offers a confident feeling in the saddle, practical riding aids, and great ergonomics for tall riders.

BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Ducati DesertX 2023 may have a slightly rougher engine performance in the lower rev range compared to the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure. Its suspension response is slightly behind that of the fork, which may affect the overall ride quality. The DesertX also has a very high, non-adjustable seat height, which may not be suitable for shorter riders. Additionally, it lacks space and handholds for pillion riders, which may limit its usability for two-up riding.

On the other hand, the BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 has a higher weight, which may affect maneuverability, especially in off-road conditions. The gearshifts at low revs can be somewhat clumsy, requiring more effort from the rider. The R 1250 GS Adventure also has a jagged appearance with little elegance, which may not appeal to riders looking for a sleek and stylish design. Lastly, the bike is relatively high-priced, especially when equipped with full equipment, which may be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.

In conclusion, both the Ducati DesertX 2023 and BMW R 1250 GS Adventure 2023 offer powerful engines, advanced rider assistance systems, and a range of features suitable for off-road adventures. The DesertX excels in its chassis and suspension adjustability, while the R 1250 GS Adventure impresses with its high-torque engine, low center of gravity, and practical details. However, each bike has its own weaknesses, such as the DesertX's rough engine performance and high seat height, and the R 1250 GS Adventure's higher weight and jagged appearance. Ultimately, the choice between these two models will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.