The Desert X is a dream adventure bike... | Ducati Desert X Review 

I love my 2023 desert x RR22, this review is spot on, wind buffeting and wind noise is annoying, the suspension if you a bigger rider is soft,air filter swap is about 25 mins the first time you do it, the stock seat after about 4-5 hours is a monkey butt maker, fit a terminogi race exhaust and the evo remap from ducati and it gives you big grins on your face and torque and bhp gains every where.. issues with mine after 3500 Mile's, front forks making a knocking/clunk noise when front wheel lifts up sharply, oil leak from the timing belt shaft under the plastic cover, rear brake pads were nearly dead after 2500 miles... parts from ducati are very slow to turn up !!! Been waiting 5 months for my crash bars and a sticker that decided to lift off soon as I left the show room, the hand grips are rock hard as are the heated ones, mods you need, bash plate crash bars and bark busters and head light protector as the headlights are silly money, lose the rubber dampers off the foot pegs, check the spindles and any moving parts been lubed properly. Keep a eye on the spoke tension , the stock chain is not good quality as is the brake pads not the best so swap them out for proper brembo sintered brake pads,gear lever at highest postion still not high enough for tech 7 boots 😂😂

The biggest problem aren't the air filter access or the suspension or the rear axle. It's the WHEELS ! The rims itself. They will eventually crack if you really offroad that thing. Be prepared to spend 2k into aftermarket wheels !!! If you have time, Read below for my full take on the bike. DDX Owner since Sept 22. 5500km mainly offroad. She's allready dented and scratched, as proper offroader will be very quickly. My take as an average level offroad rider : The bike is amazing for it's engine, chassis and electronics. And I mean AMAZING ! To cover the things you said : Rear axle ? Not a problem at all. Eastbound kit is there for you. Yep, it's 100bucks. Yep that sucks. But it's quickly forgotten. Air filter access ? Fitting a UNIfilter only requires to clean it every now and then. Remember, it's shit to access, but it's at a very clean area on the bike, unlike 890's or t7's. Now Aurora rally kit in Greece is coming up with a carbon tank with direct access to the filter. Yep that will be expensive. Suspensions ? Not a problem at all for me, I'm 80kg all geared up. Actually LOVE the suspensions. Balance ? Perfect. FREAKING perfect coming from a KTM 990 adventure. The chassis on this bike is amazing. Engine ? Like you said. Nothing more to add. It has what all the inline 2 have, plus so much more. Electronics ? Magic. that's it. Magic. Buffeting ? Buy a GS or a Multistrada if you want a commuter. Protection ? NEEDED! A Skidplate that protects the side stand pivot is mandatory. Good crashbars are, also, to save your tank. Riding the bike ? It's a therapy. Main issues with the bike : The wheels !!! If you ride soft offroad and mostly on road that will be OK. If you really offroad the bike, you'll quickly bend them then end up craking them. Yep. You have read that right. You'll crack them. BART tubeless now make great after maket wheels but... about 2k€. Antoine Meo has those in his videos... That's for a good reason. All in all, I freaking love this bike. It has flaws... But the moment you ride it, you forget. The pleasure of riding this beast is out of this world. You just have to know is not perfect out of the box. In other words, it's expensive to buy and expensive to own. Just like any Ducati ? I don't know. It's my first one. Me ? Not rich at all. Do I regret ? Not at all. It's my passion, and I'm ready to spend money on my passion. Are you ? If not, just buy a tenere and be happy.

Great review, I bought one about 2 months ago and when I was trying to decide between the DX vs the others every single conclusion you have come to were the very same as mine all the way down to the clutch. Things that made this bike pop above the 890R were the path of upgrades such as the extra fuel tank, seat options, road performance, balance and just plane Ducati cool factor. No bike is perfect which is why I have several for their respective tasks but this one for a whole lot of challenges does it very well. I love my KTMs and have had many but this bike is a different vibe all the way around. I would have been happy with the 890R but I don't think as happy as I am with the DX. Great review!

I went with the rally version, just clicking 15,000 Kms on mine no issues, love the bike and quality so far only added heated grips and full exhaust system, the decat almost weighs 8 lbs so was nice to get the mass and heat out of the bike….also double take mirrors really help in reduce buffeting…

Great 👍 review, and I honestly like Ducatis - have owned one ☝️, and most European bikes . BUT for a European bike to have soft suspension ( for the more experienced rider ) and in Australia, is-unexceptionable ! AND at the price tag . Plus the air filter access and rear wheel ( in the Middle of the Australian desert- your not going to be carrying a toque wrench 🔧. I would take the T7 - spend the extra coin 🪙 on the suspension- which you expect from a Japanese bike . OR a 660 Aprilla- no problems their with air filter or suspension. Disappointing for a Ducati ( even through other stuff is very good 👍)

Your Buddy Bret loves the Desert-X too. I think you need to be pretty experienced to handle such a heavy buke off road. I'd love to see you review the Tuareg 660, much lighter in weight maybe better for those of us less experienced.

I was watching a review and it talked at length about the Brembo brakes on the Desert X, but there was nary a mention of the gear ratios, or the cruising RPM. Reviews like these should start first by talking about the gear ratios, because you spend 97% of your time in 6th gear, at speed, or in 1st gear accelerating from a stop. Why does the Desert X not have an overdrive? We have to start demanding an overdrive gear on all modern motorcycles, especially a large ADV bike.

Excellent content as always, thanks! I see so many reviews these days with something to the effect of "road handling is superb despite 21 wheel"...are we ready to admit that it's a solved problem at this point? It sure seems that way to me. Then again I ride an Africa Twin, which is reputed to have somewhat marginal handling on the road, and it suits me just fine. I'm likely just not a fast enough rider to know the difference-and I'd wager I'm hardly alone. What I'm trying to say is, don't let this idea that "21-inch front = crappy road handling" influence you. I LOVE the way ADV bikes handle, along with their ergonomics, and have never found them to be a compromise whatsoever, for my riding style. Lots of people with ADV bikes never even intend to go off-pavement and that's perfectly fine. Hell, even if you just want the 21" spoked front for style...I say go for it!

Nick from maschine did the fink track stock. He says the suspension is on the soft side. Your points are valid, but i dont think most of us adv riders are even close to the level where we could pick holes in the desert x. As a 500k + road rider who switched to adv. The desert x is amazing on road, with the scorpions, I can smoke most R1 and s1000 riders who dont have a clue how to ride their shoe ponies. Off road, I have been smoked by a Himalaya because I don’t know how to ride my show pony😂

You are going to a 1 week adventure riding vacation (bike included in trip). Do you pick Desert X or the T 7(00)?. Assume both bikes are properly set up for you, your favorite mods but still stock suspension etc.

Apparently Ducati are about to enter the Motocross world, next year, with a new 250 four stroke, along with triumph, that will be interesting 🤔🤔🏍️

1 year later, adding to my other comment. Performance wise, DX is hard to beat. 890 has better suspension, but also comes with a lot of maintenance problems. Speaking of, here’s what’s happened with my DX. Bent the front rim. They’re basically impossible to bend back (shipped it to woodys and they couldn’t do it) and they’re horribly expensive to replace. I had venting issues with my fuel tank multiple times resulting in a dent, which, thank god, Ducati replaced on warranty. My chain stretched after 6500 miles, which is absurd. Fit and finish is great, but you just have to understand that it’s like an Italian sports car..you’ll get a smile, but your wallet will feel lighter.

Stunning looking bike-they got it right! However I do not mind one bit my KTM getting bashed and bruised.This bike looks like an expensive drop!

I was all set to buy a Tiger 900 Rally Pro, but then I test rode the Desert X and now I'm really not sure! The Tiger 900 was more comfortable, better equipped and created less turbulence around my helmet, but the Desert X offered a better riding position and felt a lot more fun. I've only ridden the Tiger 900 RP in the wet and the Desert X in the dry, so that could well be something to do with it, so I need to try them both back to back on a nice dry day.

Great video. I've had mine for 8 weeks and already have 2k miles on it. I have it fitted with the full race Termignoni titanium race exhaust system and 120hp EVO tune. The bike sounds absolutely awesome.

Great review- properly ridden and tested. The DX initially tempted me away from the new ktm 890AR but in the end the air filter access, rear axle nut, and foot/peg/lever protection offered by ktms fuel tank, pulled me back to the 890. Prefilter on 890 just sealed the deal for AUS riding.

Premium bike for premium money owners, 95% of owners will never go serious off road. Simply because they are Ducatist'as. Another big issue, easy damage for fuel tank even with protection bars, rear spindle 180Nm - forget about solo riding. So want a more capable, best electronics, best suspension from factory, bike for a bit less money buy KTM 890 Adventure R (yes it also has its own issues). For a bit less, still most reliable Honda Africa twin. Very cheap with possibility to make it super custom with fancy custom parts fro Ohlins and others - Yamaha Tenere 700.

you add the cost of the tech to bring the ktm up to or a little above the desert x you're looking at nearly the same price

"Grab some biscuits" Thats so British 🤣😂👍🏻

Llel, your work has really gone up a few more notches with this one! I learned a lot more about this moto than I read a year ago even. Right up there in the league of a certain slow-talking Aussie 😂. My only concern is Ducati reliability. While they’ve likely exceeded KTM already there, my first (and last) test ride ended with the dealer demo having a broken clutch. Still very compelling though. Well done.

That was nice Lell. The stuff dreams are made off😄👍🏻

Any comments regarding the weight of the Desertx compared to the 890 Adventure R. It's not a massively heavier in stock trim (about 9-10kg) but then you also have to add crash bars due to the tank being so vulnerable (as we saw from the Aussie press launch), plus a rack, which although rubbish on the KTM is included int he weight figure, so now you're getting closer to 15-16kg. The Desertx also has a lithium battery. Put a lithium in the 890 and now you're at more like 18kg difference in weight which isn't insignificant.

Are you reviewing this bike? more like a soothe to my ears with the right combination of Soundtrack inspired me to do better! Thanks brother! and i'm getting this bike this weekend lol

BACKGROUND MUSIC PLEASE..... LADY VOCALS PLEASE GIVE LINK OR NAME??

Weak and abrupt suspension, easy to brake wheels and low parts quality esp plastic parts. But! My god it sounds good and rides fine. :)

Was looking at the GS, KTM and after viewing Ryan F9’s review, i added the DDX to my list. Settled for the DDX as my bike of choice. Over 4000km ridden so far with it, i can say that the review here is spot on. Suspension is a bit soft. Original scorpions are not the best for off-road use. Am now changing them for Trailmax Raid. Wind buffering is not an issue for me. Air filter access is a bit difficult. All in all, a great bike. 50/50 use here north of Montréal.

Awesome review 👌👌👌Aesthetically the bike is sensational and brings ideas of historical Dakar (even though it has no right to). There’s a guy here in Australia who rode on from east coast to west coast on as many dirt roads as possible. It performed great I hear but what scares me is the servicing costs, parts replacement cost and a break down in the middle of the bush. It would be a cafe bike for me I think…😂

As long as you have to remove the fuel tank to replace the air filter this is not an adventure bike...

Thank you. You've articulated all the reasons I love my bike.

Great scenery and filming. I am an intermediate adventure rider at best and find many of the attributes you mention about the DesertX even apply to a rider of my limited skills. Thanks for an insightful review and wonderful trails and roads of Spain👍

Awesome video and review! I got a chance to take the Desert X on a short ride a while back and was really impressed with how it felt.

Would really be great if you could now get on a Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Adventure and compare.

As a DX owner, I know I’m biased, but IMO this is best DX review to date, second only of course to Ryan F9’s masterpiece! 😂 I will say though, you gave a very accurate description of what the bike feels like to ride and what it’s shortcomings are (The suspension especially. Mine is in getting stiffer springs as we speak.) Anyway, fantastic review! Well done.

Excellent. Ha ha 😅 you're making me feel like I need a Ducati and a lonerider tent now 🤦🏼‍♂️

After 150,000kms on current Africa Twins, and also our 901, our latest addition of the DesertX is by far the best tour bike out of the box we've had. Upgrade the springs and it's handling exceeds expectations.

No mention of the F650GS DAKAR in the intro. I feel it has become the forgotten ADV bike. There is still a massive following for them too!

This bike is wonderfull the best big trail and enduro bike

I just wish they hadn't missed the mark with the maintenance. Chain adjustments by the dealer? Have to take the tank off to service the air filter? Really?

Easily one of the best (maybe THE best) motorbike review channels available. Bravo Llew!

such a beaut, sullied with massive euro license plates; they need to figure out a smaller version like the states...

Would you consider a review about the AJP PR7? Thanks in advance.

Really great review. Thanks. Answered every question I’ve had about this beast.

I've just tested this on the road for an hour and it's been a mind-blowing experience on how well it rides, the engine is very smooth for a v twin, I agree with the suspension comments...I'm 104kg and it felt soft from the bat but I was sitting on the rally version and that felt much better and not as soft... Might just be my next bike. I am a huge fan and subscriber and would love to understand how you find roads for adventure bikes versus full off road bikes on maps and how you create the routes... Would potentially be a good video. Thanks for the review! Are you aiming to test the rally version as that might thick all the boxes for you as well? 🤔😅

Awesome video! But it leads me to ask a question that perhaps you can answer since you have experience on this AND the T7. I bought a T7 recently and starting to think I should have bought a DDX. I ride primarily road here in Germany but bought the T7 for trips to Portugal and Spain {TET} The T7 isn't really exciting but I have a S1000rr for that. However I'd still like to have a bit more performance. Does the weight of the DDX feel close to the T7? Before I invest a couple grand in suspension on the T7 (I'm big and tall) maybe I should sell it and get a DDX. Opinions?

You only own an Italian motorcycle once in your life. I had mine, loved it. Only have the t-shirt now. But much happier.

Awesome review as usual. Pointing out the positive and negatives. Well done.

Good review and especially the thoughts on lowering the forks for suspension balance. However, you said that the Traction Control is only one setting. Actually there are multiple levels of traction control that you can set into the Enduro and Rally modes. So, while you can't quickly change the TC level on the fly like the KTM, you can pretty much program it how you want. With two separate off road modes: Rally and Enduro, I have one set up with the medium level traction control. I think there are 6 different levels of TC.

AWESOME!!! I enjoyed a lot watching this video, very good job.

Thanks man Im weighing I just missed the KTM 890 Rally... Im really sad about that but there is a 901 expedition in the garage. I need one for me They dont make a 750 and its my favorite size. I have had several 650's Have one now but little extra in the 750 does it... then 900 is too big 1250 and 1300 are too big Now I want a big street bike 1300 is fine but If Yamaha would just put a decent suspension on the Tenere or the Transalp was actually something good. I appreciate you guys all doin the reviews saves me a ton and points more closer to true north.

0:34 The Cagiva Elefant 900 has a Ducati engine… MV Agusta (Cagiva brand owner) and Ducati are both using the color scheme from Dakar winning bikes to make their way into the adv bike market I think both have bragging rights…

I'm currently at five months of ownership, doing a 6k mile oil and filter change today. The DesertX has performed flawlessly. Most of the miles have been in the brutal Texas heat, around 20% of the miles off-road.

Great review of a great bike. I dont expect many of these £15000 bikes will see much dirt though. Would compliment my t7 nicely.

I love your reviews they are a story told. Much more than any other review bar none. I was looking for a review on their V2S by you to compare both bikes as you say the X makes a great road bike. But, in your opinion, which for you is the better road bike as I ride 95% on road.

Hi, awesome content. I'm at the point of getting navigation. What made you choose TrailTech over others? Having an older style bike (G650XChallenge) I could do with features offered on the model. What software do you use to plan adventures like the one in the video? I'm on paper, Basecamp and when in the desert, my absolute fav thing is Beeline.

they make a black version.Fantastic review.I want it more now

I live in Cancun Mexico. I am so in love with it. Just drove it few kms but close to buy it. This video is so great. Thank´s for share it.

excellent review as always - thanks. I have the 821version of this engine (and have to keep it above 3k or...), it's a wonderful engine. Have I learned my lesson owning a 10 year old Ducati... a cry for help? dunno

The desert x has tons of traction control settings, i can bury it in sand, traction control doesn’t even kick in in low mode. I don’t understand your comments

Great video. That's the best way to get to know a motorcycle. Ride safe Amigo

What a beautiful review of this bike. Love to listen to your calming and chilled voice. And of course your knowledge in adv stuff. I'm just asking myself if the mosko moto bag will fit on my "X" with the additional fuel tank attached on it 😅 Thanks for this video.

Welcome to one of my favourite parts of Spain. However, a word of caution: Picos de Europa is a national park, and offroading or free camping can get you heavily fined. Legislation has become draconian regarding off-road in general, it's mostly forbidden, and even more in protected areas. However, roads are wonderful and if you avoid national parks there's plenty of off-road where you have low risk of a bad encounter.

Fantastic video with valuable insights! I appreciate your meticulous attention to detail, particularly the information concerning static balance and the suspension limit. The comparison with Dessert X and its competitors was also enlightening. Keep up the excellent work!💥

Wow, wonderful review Lel. Better then that is the ride, absolutely beautiful. Spain WOW.

Would like to hear your thoughts on the Husky Norden, and a comparison with this bike. Enjoy your channel, thank you!

How do you know when to get the front wheel over unseen obstacles? This guy must be good.....maybe....even the best.

Great review, who would have though the Italiens could do it. One thing - the 360 cam, just forget about it when disorted ;-)

Pausing now at 1:27 to go get a hot drink and a biscuit! 🤩

The engine is the same as Hypermotard 939/950 with 3/4 BHP reduced

Very tempted by one of these now my GSA has gone. Just not sure if I can get approval from my wife for bike number three!! 🤣

Thanks for all the great reviews! I am wondering if you consider the hydraulic clutch to be an advantage over the cometition?

Great review Llel, see your bringing your KTM 450 to the Beacons Rally, would of been nice to see you haul that thing round some super nice Welsh trails next weekend! I think as ever with bikes too many get lost in the specs and forget what bikes are for - riding. Gotta go and do some riding in Spain, that looks awesome, maybe if I can find you I'll come and have a chat at the Beacons, maybe a late September trip is just what I need. Thanks, Mike

Amazing review and video , subscribed and excited.

Lawrence of Liberia to the rescue in the worst mud pit ever! Burnt clutch plates but freedom from the eternal mud pit! Not a bad trade off. 😊

High praise

Chain make those clunky noises on low rpm forces high 1 and 2 gear change is there a way to fix that ?

Tiger 900 RP is an excellent road bike and competent off road

How does it compare to the Norden 901 Expedition? Its not the same as the ktm 890R

Superb. This channel has some of the best reviews in YT Land.

Thx for the review, it was very entertaining to watch and gave me a lot to think about. Cheers!

😂

Thanks. You're one of the few people I trust to give an honest review. Do I need to chop my KTM 890R for one of these? The suspension is far too hard on the 890 - it's not just my opinion; the sag figures prove it. I'm 87kg with kit. I've spent 43 years developing my riding skills; so simply don't get traction control (or cruise control).

The airfilter change on the Desert X is a bit ridiculous. That would put off especially in heavy bulldust conditions.

ive always had to at least re-spring every bike ive bought far as i recall

That is how you do a review! Insightful, informed and wide reaching. Top draw and reinforces my own thoughts. Will I part with my Africa Twin….?

That road looked like the road that took us from Spain into France

If you really want to see a crappy air filter design, check out the Arica Twin. People seems to be afraid of lifting the tank in the Desert X, in reality an air filter change shouldn't take more than 20 minutes to half hour - I have helped a friend changing the filter on his Desert X. On the Africa Twin you have to remove the top trim and right fairing which include unclipping and popping out a dozen plastic clips (eventually they will break or wear out earlier or later...just a matter of time), then the airbox access itself is a bit problematic. I hated working on that bike.

I haven't ever tried another brands quickshifter, but I do think that the DDXs quickshifter does "stutter" sometimes, where I takes away too much throttle, or doesn't shift at all. Is it just me, or is this sth. more ppl have expierienced?

It’s come down to this or the KTM 890-R for me.

Same engine in my road biased Multi V2S, very underrated bike. Perfect balance of handling, grunt and comfort, sadly the Desert X is too tall for me but I do like the looks.

Better? Your list was/is extremely short and very livable. I enjoy my DX and T7 but on long trip the T7 is staying at home.

it blows through the shock because of bad design. The shock does not follow the arc of the swingarm, deviations from which must be compensated for by heavier springs.

Yes !!!!

Excellent review mate

Abs on rear brake on road is intrusive on corners

Fantastic video! Loved this, edited cleanly and genuine advice.

I’m an older rider. I’m 6’3” tall and around 225Kg, so no lightweight. I test rode a Desert X today but it wasn’t for me. Firstly, Ducati Glasgow were really helpful and I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending them. They made me feel like I wanted to buy a bike from them, no BS, just constructive information. I found the Desert X way too soft on the front and disconcertingly unstable at speeds above about 85mph on the road (which I never do of course). I can’t imagine the bike with a top box as tank slappers could be a risk, something I’ve not said about a bike since my RD350 in 1976. The seat was uncomfortable and the riding position odd for me. The bike was fast and turned in like a bloodhound. There was a lot of valve gear noise that came up through the fairing and dominated the sound of the full Termi system to the extent that I wondered why anyone would pay the premium for it. The front brake is ferocious and requires a one finger pull in anything but emergencies. That, compared with the ‘dive to the centre of the earth’ sensation from the soft front end, makes riding in traffic a challenge. My conclusion was that the Desert X might be a weapon in the hands of the best riders but isn’t remotely suitable for me with my mainly road use and occasional green lane expeditions. The final zero for the Desert X was the fuel consumption. It reported a range when completely full of 147 miles and I used 3.5 litres to do about 30 miles. I bought a Triumph 900 Rally this afternoon. Similar power to the Ducati but in a different league in terms of usability for me. For the same test circuit the Triumph used 2.2 litres of fuel. You can have an auxiliary tank at huge cost to give the Desert X a similar range to the Triumph however it is then not possible to fit any luggage other than a sailing bag over the pillion seat. Specified to my fairly basic needs the Desert X came in at just shy of £20k. I paid less than £15k for the fully loaded Triumph.

Question, is anyone else experiencing this? When standing you sort of resting with your hill on the kick stand ?

Are those the mosko 40's or the 80's ?

Thar Ryan F9 bit always gets me 😂

nice ride out. what are the tyres like over 85/90mph on the tar roads. as a 908 front get a bit wobbly after them speeds. would be nice if manufactures would have a adventure bike you could ride off road with proper tyres on not the stock str tyres on. demo bike, as a lot of riders do use these types of bikes off road more. and on you tube look at all adventure bikes and they are all the best. but like you no every one rides different and you have to have a ride on a bike before you put your money down on one.