Ducati Desert X versus KTM 890 Adventure

Conclusion - what sticks

Ducati has achieved a great success with the Desert X. The machine can do a lot, but is not exactly a bargain. Whether so much technology has to be in an off-road travel enduro is certainly not without controversy. There will be both parties, namely those who say: "Too much stuff" and those who say: "Cool, finally modern technology on a real terrain machine".
 
The test bike was kindly provided by Ducati Hamburg . There is the Desert X as a demonstrator and may be very gladly driven by you. Or you just drop by Ducati Hamburg and enjoy the beguiling sight of Italian motorcycle building art. You will certainly stop in front of the Superleggera. Take coffee, enjoy it and check your account balance! And remember: We only live once and life is damn short.
 

Conclusion - what's stuck?

More steam, more technology, more fun? After our test, we can answer yes to this initial question. However, owners of a 790 Adventure don't have to go straight to the KTM dealer and buy an 890. The differences between these two bikes are not as great as KTM likes to portray. Nevertheless, the 890 Adventure is the better motorcycle.
 
Competitors are the Triumph Tiger 900, the Suzuki V-Strom 1050 and the Ducati Multistrada 950 - the travel enduros of the upper middle class. The difference from the upper-class thick ships such as the BMW GS 1250 and 1290 SAS is clearly noticeable, but as described above, both advantages and disadvantages are noticeable.
 
The test motorcycle was kindly provided to us by Motorrad-Ruser from Haseldorf - thank you very much.