Ducati DesertX 2023 vs. KTM 790 Adventure R 2019

The Ducati DesertX 2023 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2019 are both enduro motorcycles designed for off-road adventures. While they have some similarities in terms of engine type, transmission, and suspension, they also have notable differences in terms of power, weight, and features.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Ducati DesertX 2023 is equipped with a V-twin engine with a displacement of 937cc, producing 110 horsepower and 92 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the KTM 790 Adventure R 2019 has an in-line twin engine with a displacement of 799cc, producing 95 horsepower and 88 Nm of torque. The Ducati DesertX has a slightly more powerful engine, which may provide better acceleration and top speed.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension with a monoshock at the rear. However, the Ducati DesertX is equipped with Kayaba suspension components, while the KTM 790 Adventure R uses WP suspension components. The KTM has slightly larger diameter forks and offers more travel, providing better off-road performance and handling.

Ducati DesertX 2023

When it comes to chassis, the Ducati DesertX has a steel tubular frame, while the KTM 790 Adventure R features a chromium-molybdenum tubular frame that also serves as a load-bearing engine. Both frames are designed to provide stability and durability, but the KTM's frame may offer better rigidity and handling characteristics.

In terms of brakes, both motorcycles feature double disk brakes at the front. The Ducati DesertX comes with advanced rider assistance systems such as riding modes, cornering ABS, ride by wire, shift assistant with blipper, cruise control, traction control, and anti-wheelie. The KTM 790 Adventure R also has ABS, riding modes, ride by wire, and traction control, but lacks some of the advanced features found on the Ducati.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the Ducati DesertX has a front tire diameter of 21 inches and a rear tire diameter of 18 inches, while the KTM 790 Adventure R has the same tire sizes. Both motorcycles have a wheelbase of around 1600mm and a seat height of around 875-880mm. The Ducati DesertX weighs 202kg (dry weight with ABS), while the KTM 790 Adventure R weighs 189kg (dry weight with ABS). The Ducati has a slightly larger fuel tank capacity of 21 liters, compared to the KTM's 20 liters.

KTM 790 Adventure R 2019

In terms of strengths, the Ducati DesertX offers a great chassis with fully adjustable suspension, sophisticated driving modes, a powerful engine, powerful brakes, well-thought-out detail solutions, and extensive standard equipment. The KTM 790 Adventure R has a high-quality chassis that allows for a wide range of use, an engine with great running culture and torque, an easy-to-read display, and a practical rally electronics package.

However, the Ducati DesertX also has some weaknesses, including a smooth running of the engine in the lower rev range, slightly slower suspension response compared to the fork, a very high and non-adjustable seat height, and limited space and no handholds for pillion riders. The KTM 790 Adventure R has a few weaknesses as well, such as the quickshifter not being standard, a slightly fiddly indicator switch, and a seat that may be less comfortable on long tours compared to the standard model.

In conclusion, both the Ducati DesertX 2023 and the KTM 790 Adventure R 2019 are capable enduro motorcycles with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. The Ducati offers a more powerful engine and advanced rider assistance systems, while the KTM provides a high-quality chassis and practical features for off-road adventures. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.