Nice review ! Being an owner myself of the Ducati DesertX (got it early september), being a former enduro rider, and using this bike as hard as my ability will get me on and off road, I'll add that, to me : It's a real 50/50 bike ! I've tried all the other bikes in the range (except for the tiger and africa which have never been an option to me) and this one is the only one being a real blast both on and offroad. -On road, the V2 engine SPEAKS. This caracter it has is what lacks all the competitor with their similar L2 engines. The chassis works great, the brakes are roadbike level. You can ride it as a supermoto, foot down and slide it from braking point to power sliding exiting a corner (DTC off of course) or ride it like a naked/sport bike, with proper lines and assistances on. It's a wheelie machine, should I add. You can feel the road DNA of Ducati. -Off road, the more you ride it, the more you get confident, the more you go for it. It's impressive how light yet planted the bike feels. At some point you feel like you could go anywhere the enduro 450's would go. I'm not a huge fan of electronic assistance, yet I suprised myself using it a lot ! And ... it is actually very easy to swith modes once you've taken like 30 minutes to really understand the sequencing display. You can switch while riding in 2 seconds. One big advantage : When you select a riding mode and kill the engine (or stall), the moment you switch the bike on again, it's still in the same mode ! I do not know about the KTM on that. Who has never swallowed their own balls as their bike would not brake due to ABS being on again ?! On the DDX You can modify every modes to your taste which seems like a detail, but in real life it isn't! The DTC (Ducati thorttle control or ESP) is like no others to me. I like it on the 890R but to me ducati really nailed it with this throttle control. Enduro mode with only 75hp is extraordinary in muddy wet conditions. The rally mode is... well : 110hp offroad... It's nowhere to be necessary or faster, but damn is it joyfull. Suspension wise, I'm a light and small guy (174cm and less than 80kg all geared up). Had to realease slightly the preload on the front, rear was fine from factory. Reduced a bit the compression setting on both fork (left leg) and shock, too. Now it's just fine. Where the 890r has excellent suspensions, I'd say this one has very good ones. Position and ergonomics is perfect, I felt at home right away which was not the case on any o the other bikes I tried. It is aboslutely true : the DesertX is forgiving offroad for the exact reason they mentionned. The traction is impressive. Even on the more roadish oriented tires it's got from factory, man does it fell like the rear wheel will NOT slip unless you want it to! The first time I took it offroad with DTC oof, I really thought the TDC was actually still slighly there, but it wasn't! Don't get me wrong, it does amazing power slide if you want it to. - Technically : air filter is well located when it comes to getting clean air versus dusty air, but it's true that it's a pain to access. Takes about 45min when you are used to doing it. Other issue is the torque spec of the rear wheel. Other than that, it's just like the other bikes. My dealer lets me work on the bike and won't void the warranty for it. It's wel built and pretty easy to work on, actually. I'll add here that the shifter is great on mid and high rpm's but sometimes won't work well on low rpm. Hey, it's a v2 engine... That's normal. It's also normal that it won't be as smooth as an L2 on low rpm, yet I found myslef tractoring that thing on very steep hills whith no issue. This bike won't stall. In other words, tehcnically there is nothing to be affraid of. - Price wise : It is up to everyone to decide whether this bike is worth spending the amount versus another cheaper bike. Tuareg is a great choice for the buck if you plan on riding mostly offroad or if road performance isn't important to you. Reliability may be a bit of a problem with the aprilia though, time will tell. That said, ktm 890's have plenty of issues as well. T7 is a rock. So I'll conclude the same way I started. You pay more for this bike, but you get a REAL 50/50 bike that'll put a smile on your face no matter where you take it. THe 890R will be a blast offroad, and with time and training, I'm sure it's much quicker than the ducati. On road, well it's just a big enduro with all the downsides you may imagine. Hoping this will help people make a decision. Please bear with me : this message is only a perspective : My perspective.

Geez, let Rennie speak! Quit constantly talking over the dude when he's trying to make a point.

I went with the Ducati. It has over 5k miles (in scorching Texas heat) in the 4.5 months of ownership. Fitted with the Termi full race exhaust (de-cat) w/EVO tune, bash plate, crash bars, and GPS mount. The DesertX has performed flawlessly.

Nice to see someone actually comparing the two. So much of the media has shied away from comparing new adv bikes to the 890. It's interesting to see them side by side. The 890 actually looks slim next to the Desert X. Not sure your weights are correct though. A fully fuelled 890 is around 213kg. The Dessert X is 223kg.

This review along with the Tenere/Africa Twin episode were outstanding. Appreciate the discussion and insights. I think your observations on the KTM and Ducati were spot on. Though a long-time KTM fanboy I went with the DesertX because: 1) I was ready to try something new and 2) thought it would be a better all-rounder given my skills and use. First time Ducati owner so crossing my fingers in terms of reliability.

Boys. Turn your input gains DOWN. You're running those pres too hot, especially given how close you are to the mics.

Both are capable. The offroad bonafides of KTM keep me coming back. If you want a hardcore offroad bike, you just cant go wrong with the KTM. Everything else is hit or miss.

Please do a full comparison between all the current adv bikes (Dx, 890 Adv R, Tuareg 660, T7, gs850, etc).

I have about 800 miles on my Desert X. I’ve done a mix of road and level 1-2 dirt. Very happy thus far with the off road capabilities. I can not believe it’s on road handling!!! This is coming form someone who’s owned/own 996, S4RS, Supersports, Monster R, Pikes Peak etc… It corners far better on the road than it should with knobbies and a 21” front wheel. Not sure how Ducati did it; however, that’s why I’m brand loyal. I’m sure the KTM is as capable or maybe a little better off road, no way it can keep up on the road.

I had a 790 Duke and have several friends that have the 890 adventure and they have a lot of reliability issues. I have had several KTM dirtbikes back in the day and they were dead reliable, but the 790 was a nightmare.

No mention about the different service philosophies of KTM vs Ducati. Sure KTM is "Ready to Race", but it's "Fix it Yourself, Because You Have to" vs Ducati's "Take it to the Dealer" for everything from cleaning your chain to changing the air filter. Ducati publishes NO DIY service information, such as tightening specifications. At least KTM's Owners Manual provides some useful information. BTW, I own both the DesertX and multiple KTMs, including a 1090R Adventure. My comments are based on firsthand experience, not hearsay.

By far the best bike review , honest fair to the brands!!!! Useful information. Helpful for anyone that want to learn and form their own preferences . KTM 890 R owner. I made my purchase after all your other reviews.

Missed one key difference- air filter accessibility. If you ride in dusty conditions, the Ducati is pretty much ruled out.

I really don't understand everyone saying "these aren't middleweight adventure bikes" because they're almost 1000cc. THEY ARE MIDDLEWEIGHT. You have heavyweight bikes like the big 1250GS's, V4 and big v2 multis, 1290 KTM, 1200 Tiger, etc. Then you have MIDDLEWEIGHT like the 890/901, T7, Desert X, Tiger 900, 850 GS, etc. Then you have lightweight ADV like KTM 690/Husky 701/GASGAS 700, 390 adventure, and you could categorize DR650 here too. Anything lighter than that is a dual sport, not an adventure bike. Anything heavier than the heavyweights is a jeep. These are middleweight ADVs. They're in the middle of their respective manufacturer ranges. They weigh more than the lightweight but less than the heavy hitters. Middleweight.

Good review and fair. But you needed to talk about air filters. Basic maintenance. Fuel economy. Those factors even in isolation are real breakers for the Duc - with whom even the owners manual directions are ‘see dealer’

One main thing to consider about the Ducati is the air filter location, in order to put a foam filter and a clean it regulary. It seems to be a one hour job, because it's under the fuel tank. Than's a big down to one that's thinking in riding off road. Maybe Ducati's next generations will fix that thing as KTM have done in the past (950-990 have the same issue)

Not sure why you’d pick on the Desert X electronics and dash. I find it super easy to use and quickly change rider modes on the fly as I hit different conditions. If you can’t get used to that get a bicycle.

2023 ktm adv 890r is the best bike on market for this purpose.

All the reviews be like it's a great bike! I will never understand why no one mentions about the practicality issues of Ducati. It might be a great ride but it's not a great bike... - Anyone seen what it takes to clean the air filter on Desert X? To clean the air filter you have to remove the fairings, gas tank etc. if you are not handy or don't have space to do it, t will cost you few hundreds $ at the dealership. Simply forget about cleaning it on long journeys. - If you add the reserve tank you cannot add the factory bracket system for your top case and panniers. It's oxymoronic to give more range and take away the luggage options. It's like where you go you won't need extra clothing... - If you add crash bars to DesertX, its price matches with 1290 ADV R in Canada, gets very close in US. - Ducati doesn't come with knobs to adjust the forks, you need an additional tool to do it. - Ducati has a metal tank, even the bike in the video is already dinged up. - Vertical screen takes the space away from additional navigation devices. I love my Ducatis and the 950 engine. We pay the extra $ to Ducatis because they look nice, have a pedigree and perform on the track as they promise etc. Impractical pretty bike is not gonna cut it in the bush. It's a fun bike, looks great for sure but Desert X has long way to catch up with the segment. It's just not a comparison...

Spark arrestor available on that Termignoni? In California unfortunately, still required in a lot of places..

it would have make all more sense if we were comparing both 2023 models as KTM went to several updates

KTM 890R is a weapon on and off road. I drove both bikes many times and KTM is superior in almost every way! Sorry but there is only one winner here KTM 890R

Great review gents. Thank you as I was on the fence with both as the dealerships in Melbourne won’t let you take them off road so this will help me convince my wife, AKA CFO, why I need to spend more and get the Ducati. 👍😎🇦🇺

I never understood comments regarding how to handle electronic and buttons when riding a new bike versus others you know for a while ... (probably even without any dealer explanations and/or RTFM)

Any idea where in Colorado the Ducati footage was shot?

Good content. Audio quality and balance required a lot of work though. Nearly ruined the video.

These bikes are like a surgeon's scalpel: most buyers will use them like a butter knife. Any comments about ease of servicing and servicing costs and OEM aftermarket parts costs? Microphone levels completely all over the place, fellahs!

Nice comparison and great work. I love it when folks ask can you do a comparison of so and so? Really like these machines are cheap to buy.

I was really looking forward to watching this, but I'm struggling to get past the poor audio. Otherwise, nice video work!

Excellent reviews. You guys are good

Would love this review style of 1290S with full tech pack vs MultiV4S covering touring and offroad adv riding.

I noticed you never mentioned the tires. Are you planning to do a review on the Karoo 4 anytime soon?

Jess, your mic is over saturated, cleaner sound is easier on the ears (as a sound tech I'm picky :) ) Love my KTM 790 R for the reasons you give. I'm 5'10" and enjoy the more compact size and it's performance capability is beyond what I can tap most of the time. Also have it lightened to 450 wet which I really appreciate. But, I also love the DesertX for the reasons you give too! The price would keep me away from a new one but a 2-3 yr. old clean used one down the road is a real possibility. Plus, a couple more model years will build a consensus on common issues that may arise. Good job guys, always put a lot of stock in your opinions.

The concerns with the air filter change accessibility and laboursome task can be overcome by instaling a new carbon fibre tank from Aurora rally equipment. You can then change the air filter in seconds.

One deciding factor these reviews hardly ever cover is the maintenance schedule, i.e. how often do you need a valve check, AND, is it possible to do it yourself. Having owned a few Ducs,. that is my Number One question...

I had a deposit on a DX and got stuffed around by the dealer, the 2nd time by this dealer! That aside on reflection from what I believe is that if owners do maintenance theirselves there is a possibility of voiding warranty. This to me is a deal breaker and doesn’t seem to be practical in Australia. I rode the DX around for about 30 minutes and didn’t like the clunky quick shift particularly 1st to 2nd. At one stage I thought I had broken the gear box as it was that violent. It no doubt is a nice bike but didn’t impress me in the power delivery as it seemed quite dead down low. I had just got off a Turareg 10 minutes prior and that is very punchy for a small capacity engine but didn’t have the premium feel of the DX. In my disappointment with the dodgy dealer I purchase a 1000k KTM 790 R 21 model. So far I am really enjoying the ride and playing with all the adjustments and settings. I consider myself a reasonably capable rider, my other current bike is a 21 Ninja 1000sx and I have been riding for 48 years. The 790 owes me about 21k with the few additions I have made. If I would have taken delivery of the DX it would have cost me about 31k+ to get to the same spec. With reflection I don’t think there’s 10k difference. Just my 2 bobs worth. Cheers

Top notch review, personally I am going for the DeGucci.

890R is a brilliant performer, I loved the performance of mine, however there is just no getting around mine was a piece of shit... like most other new KTMs I have bought. I am on a Tenere 700 now. Lacking the outright performance by comparison, but I can ride it (since it isn't in the shop waiting for unavailable parts), I can trust it (since stupid things don't happen like a fuel petcock falling apart and spewing gas on the dealership floor during new delivery), the engine sounds great (because I can hear the note rather the clatter from a failing cam chain tensioner), the engine runs on both cylinders even on cold starts without unburnt fuel coming out the exhaust, and I can adjust the controls the way I like them (without interference issues between the the parts I want to adjust).

On a modded Suzuki Dr650, which I feel I would need to keep if pulled the trigger on either of these. Wouldn't want the downtime waiting for parts or service especially with a 6 month riding season where I am. It's currently minus 27°C outside.

Great show ,from SA

Thank you very much! I like both of them bikes, but if I could afford the expense I would go for the KTM. Anyway, now I know something more than before about them.

What is the point of an 'adventure' bike where you have to lift the tank to get at the air filter? Give us a break Ducati.

Great video but Ducati electronics are awesome and easy to navigate (though to be fair I ride a Panigale not an adventure bike) once you’ve read the instructions once! If you can’t be assed to RTFM (Read the F manual) your not in a position to criticise! The learning curve for the Desert X is 10 mins if you can open the handbook (or download it). In terms of analysing the bike dynamics I thought it was an excellent review.

Can you do a comparison between KTM Duke 890R and Ducati Monster SP?

Dude, I like the show but let your partner finish a sentence please. You cut him off every time he is trying to make his point.

The choice is clear, keeping my 2x 1190 Adventure! If you go off road, just add knobbies, and Crush bars like I did on one of mine. I am also 6-1, 260.

Why isn’t anyone mentioning the dealership with the Ducati you got to go to the dealership for everything including air filters adjustment of the chain. The list goes on. They don’t offer you. Any literature or manuals on doing your basic maintenance.

Great review folks. Here's hoping, KTM finally launches the 790/890 ADV in India as MY2023 models. 28122022

Don’t get me wrong. Both of those motorcycles are absolutely gorgeous and you cannot go wrong with purchasing either one of them but you also need a second mortgage to be able to afford it.

What holds me back from buying the Ducati is the air filter. Buying the Husqvarna expedition or bmw 900 gs

I own both of them and I prefer the desert X.

Is the KTM reliable. I've seen a few reviews with cold starting issues with 890's.....my 1190 fails every time below 10⁰C

I have a ducati desert x with a rear auxiliary tank. But i ride it in the outback of Australia so i think it's worth the money. Not many Petrol stations out here.

im so torn between the DesertX and the Nord901 too many great bikes to choose from.

I have owned both KTM and Ducati for decades I would never consider Ducati as equal or better than KTM

but the looks on the ducati !!!!! beautiful

What about he MV Agusta Lucky Explorer??!! ;)

Try changing an air filter yourself. I’ve watched a video on this and it’s not something you can do in a half an hour like the KTM. Seriously this is a game changer. Search it and watch it you’ll soon know what I am saying.

The metal tank (up high and super vulnerable) and air filter access put me off it for harder Adv use, where we change filters a few times on a 2 week outback ride. The long wheelbase is more road and gravel track oriented than the 890 that begs you to find fun single tracks to ride. I honestly think the DX is more comparable to the T7 and Africa Twin ~ where it clearly wins. It isn’t even in the same ballpark as an 890 Rally…or the same cost, obviously, but then the full capability of the 890 package absolutely shines! I’d have bought a DX as a weekend explorer / fun commuter bike if it had decent wind protection at highway speeds, but it buffets you around just like the 890 :(

Good review. Interesting that you call the 890 reliable... my belief is its anything but.....

Oh that knee buster crash bar mount on the Ducati needs to be fixed.

Cool video but bad audio!

Para que la Ducati desert, si ya existe la ktm 1090 advR? Con la misma geometría, mejor motor y mejores suspensiónes?

What about the air box to hard to work on.

The Duc doesn't come with the crash bars, bash plate, or exhaust for $14-15k. With all the toys you had it's closer to $18-20k. It's seems a little Ducati red apples to KTM oranges IMHO.

It's funny to me how everyone raves about the Desert X but its specs on paper are almost identical to the Honda Africa Twin manual base model. I think people forget that the AT base is a serious offroad weapon. I guess because you mostly see AT's with DCT and electronic suspension that weigh 540lbs. I love the Desert X but I also want to do my own maintenance.

You should 100% jump everything if you ride an 890. It loves it

Funny that you never mentioned the Norden 901. It is more of a direct competitor to the X? Both have the retro looks and more of a travel set up vs the R.

Nothing about maintenance? The maintenance of the Ducati looks to be a nightmare so far.

As always great review, but your audio is pants.

My completely stock 2022 KTM 890 Adv R with a full tank of gas came in at 463 lbs. Might want to check your scale if you really think it weighs 490 lbs.

At the end of the day, 5000km far away from home the best bike is the one who still works. That is why i have bullet proof king of reliability - T7. 😜

Alright who put the dent in the tank of the DX?

Ducati has never been there before? They who built the Elefant!

What about road manners? These bikes are for roads as well.

As brands go, Ducati is generally more reliable than KTM. I like both bikes and the KTM 690/790/890 have made their mark. But, KTM is good however, Ducati as I said is generally more reliable. Also, unless you ride a Japanese bike as far as availability of dealer maintenance and repairs are concerned, it's easier to find a Ducati dealer than it is a KTM dealer. Get the bike you want but you also have to consider the support model as well.

You simply can’t take a bike that you have to take the fuel tank off to service the air cleaner seriously

Norden 901 expedition is the correct answer.

There is no way their weight is similar. I would expect at least a 15-20lbs difference between the two.

Can we expect an Aprilia Tuareg review?

Ducati are always Beautiful bikes .. what about the most important aspect .. longevity and reliability ?

Sorry but Ducati was making Rallye bikes much before KTM...Cagiva elefant ..350 to 900 fuel inj...late 80's

The elephant in the room… the air filter.

Ducati looks better; but just looks!

Like the comparison. The Ducati is pretty. I don't know what the Ducati weighs but the 890R is no where near 490 lbs w/ fuel - own one.

If a company could make a bike that kept its ABS off once you change it to off despite turning the bike off and on when on the trail would be great. I will sign a waiver or whatever it takes….these companies make sweet middle weight bikes that can you leave you hanging in technical terrain due to what I think is liability thinking companies. I am looking at a used 790 right now…and I already cringe to think of what if I stall and how I will have to reset the ride mode each time so I can safely navigate a technical trail.

You stated the difference between susp travel for the bikes but how much travel??? Ah I'll go to the manu sites.

Both bikes got +63 steering head angle...

Maintenance aspect should have been covered.

I love riding my 790, but the reliability sucks.

What an awesome time for adv bikes. I own a well accessorized KTM 790 r and riding rocky and rutty terrain you forget the size. It feels close to the smaller dual sports unless you ride deep sand or have to pick it up. It’s truly an amazing bike. I am sure Ducati crushed as always

Good video. But my Triumph Tiger 900 better on road than KTM and better offroad than Ducati :)

Off topic but not....CFMOTO 800MT build is ok but the KTM 790 motor they use in it, is the worst motor/electronics I have ever ridden, and unfortunately I bought one! It's been back at the dealers more than in my garage or out on the road. CFMOTO refuse to admit that the bike has big issues. KTM have been having QC and fueling issues lately as well. So maybe Ducati should be given a go, if you are in the market but these days just about every manufacturer is having troubles. Maybe it is the fact that they are being pushed by the emissions rules, and the duty of care to baby all riders with their (bike must be stopped to change certain modes etc). Deciding on a bike is now very stressful, and the freedom and joy of riding has left the building, in my opinion. I was looking at the KTM 890 Adventure R until I saw some of the issues, loose steering head bearings, leaking front brake master cylinder cap and the pay to play cost. I know because I also have a 2023 890 Duke GP.

Yah this video is loud even when you put the volume down 😂

"No one rides it like Chris Birch..." You may be right about that, but even Birchy isn't motocrossing a STOCK 790 Adventure S like I am either. Can only imagine what I'd be capable of with an R/Rally model. I do have to hand it to KTM for as many times as I've bottomed out this suspension in 25k miles without it or anything else breaking...

I'd take either one. But alas... I'm 3 months away from paying off my '18 KLR-650 (sexy black on black).....with new tires...and a LeoVince pipe. Lotto money? Africa Twin with the manual tranny, tubed tire rims, and smaller tank (cheapest/lightest one) *as much as i like the Duck, you can't even adjust your own chain 🤬 and the KTM is......

Hats off to your interaction and review. Of course the KTM is better (obviously) but great review. 😂😂😂

Guys do the reviews out on the road. All wanna be KZfaqr reviewers doing the same. Sitting in a room, reading the specs and showing the videos / pictures of rides. No fun. Review while riding . Get some nice shots . Test these over different terrains , talk about suspension .

What a mission to change an air filter.

The interruptions are off-putting.