2024 Ducati DesertX Rally Vs. 2024 KTM 890 Adventure R Rally | Spurg's Take

[@RevZilla]

Keep up with all the best in motorcycle news at RevZilla's Common Tread: rvz.la/46gkSsP

[@DavidDualSport]

I own a DDX standard version and I tested a 890R.... They feel very different. The DDX feels more stable at high speeds, it has a very nice relaxed position and a narrow seat. The position in the KTM is much more agressive. And the KTM feels more agile. Since I got a smaller bike for heavy off road I think the ddx fits better my needs. On the the road I think the DDX handles better.

[@ciocanelwar]

I also had the chance to get the DDX and test the 890, felt the same way as you.

[@4R1P5R]

The Ducati is easier to ride for inexperienced riders. If you have a lot of off road adventure riding experience, you'll appreciate the KTM and push the Duc beyond it's limits very quickly. The KTM is a way more capable off roader.

[@elvulch2710]

@@4R1P5Rhaving owned the KTM and now owning the Desert X, I would agree the KTM is better off-road, but not way better. With a suspension upgrade, the Duc will run circles around the KTM. One other very important factor is that KTM customer service sucks ass.

[@jonathanmcfarland34]

All the specs are important, but at the end of the day, just look at that Ducati. On looks alone it is worth double the price of that funny looking KTM. And I’m a KTM fan.

[@chilly243]

and then youre out and about and need some minor maintenance done and on the Duc youre pretty much f*cked in comparison

[@blackbuttecruizr]

Competition is good, hopefully Ducatis offering will push KTM (and others) to build better bikes.

[@kaizen2049]

Desertx is a beast the rally will be nothing short of spectacular

[@rankandvile]

Aesthetically, the Ducati is on top....... but what do the Italians know about design anyways...

[@kenbowlus2995]

Aren't they the ones that put a screen door in a glass bottom boat?

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@kenbowlus2995 Maybe you're referring to a submarine.

[@Roberta_Esposito]

🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹

[@raulsalanaranjo6565]

I like the looks of the Ducati better. On the other hand, the best of these two is the one that doesn’t leave you stranded

[@ciocanelwar]

A few years ago I would have said the KTM even with it's issues... I spent more than I can afford and more than I will be able to afford again to get the DDX. Have no issues (except the heat) and to me it really feels like a quality product unlike the 890/901 (got to test ride them).

[@chrisvantassel8867]

I have owned the 1190 and the 1290 but never an 890. I do currently own a standard DX now. I love KTM and I feel like KTM and Ducati provide the best riding experiences. That being said, specs only mean something to those who can ride their bike to its fullest and 90% of us don't need to worry about suspension travel and fork adjustability. I will say that for an intermediate + rider like myself I find the Desert X to be the most balanced all around ever made. The DX on road is just phenomenal and off-road I found to be as easy to ride as my Beta 390. If hard core was my objective the KTM Rally is the choice but I would never push it to its capabilities. I chose the DX because it excels at everything, it is more expandable and accessorizable and offers up a better solution to everyday and all around riding. The only negative I have on the DX is the engine heat. One thing to note is that Ducati for some reason has a miserable break in meaning the engines are awkward and lumpy and stiff until they hit the 600 mile mark. They seem to open up better than any engine I have experienced and once they do they are seriously good. I still have my 1290 Super Duke and that is also a top class engine. I will take a V twin over a parallel twin any day. To sum up, if you are seriously hard core adventure/offroad the KTM, if you are looking for every day and all around with really no compromises I would go DX all day.

[@manoloorz]

the KTM looks like something i could talk myself into buying, the ducati however makes me feel like im better off throwing more money at my tenere to see how much i can improve it.

[@therealturbofanisme]

Looks to me like the desertx rally matches the standard 890R rather than actually competing with the 890 Rally.

[@AndrewMurray-w9i]

My thoughts exactly

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Goodness motorcycles like this are getting *stupid expensive.* And everyone knows, you gotta throw another $3G's into an Akrapovic system.

[@savmix2088]

With only 700 units for the new rally, resale value on your 2021 should hold high.

[@elvulch2710]

I had the KTM 890R and sold it the day after I test rode the Desert X.

[@chrismathias5438]

me too

[@P6_7R_Nick]

Come on Spurge, why are you comparing the two. Does it matter if the Ducati is the better bike, we're still gonna buy the KTM. Its like the Multi Strada v the Super Adventure. The Ducati is a better bike but I'll stick with my KTM thank you 😁

[@bens5186]

I love the rally variant. Would have thought that limiting a run on something that, if you miss out may drive you to another brand or hold onto your current bike is a bit of a bad idea. Even though you can up spec the standard bike to the rally spec if the performance is what you are after, it will cost more and have lower resale.

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Honestly that's what pushed me over the edge in buying my '21 Rally. To build out a base model 890 Adventure R with just suspension, electronic, seat, and pegs it was pushing like $25/26K. If you're after this type of performance, it really is a "value".

[@4tech69]

The biggest point for the Desertx is you'll just be able to buy one, and let's face it. It's sexy as hell. The worst will be the cost of ownership and general maintenance. I'll keep my 23 890 R. I can't ride that to it's limit so have not need for either of these Rally versions.

[@cp4512]

That DesertX Rally looks dope. I think that’s the bike that will affect your KTM 2021 bike depreciation more.

[@jackson_foto]

I’d be very surprised to see no preload adjustment on the front of the DX rally as the base model forks have them

[@7arkhwf]

Exactly, I would find this hard to grasp!!

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Me too, but I couldn't find mention of a preload adjustment for the front.

[@paul.vanhout57]

About the same range on my DesertX. Probably 45mpg overall and sometimes better while touring.

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Thanks for the info!!

[@7arkhwf]

Let's not forget, the rear "OEM" fuel tank, though extra cost 😏

[@ferociousfrankie]

Anyone with a multi 950/V2 or monster 950 and hypermotard can you tell that. It's a great engine.

[@dashuntas.m4045]

Everyone keeps going on about how good the Desert X Rally looks but I don’t see it, the base DX looks better to me.

[@LeeGHThomas]

Agreed. I think the "adventure" fender suits the big bikes better than the dirt bike style fender does, but the Ducati rally still looks better than the KTM.

[@7arkhwf]

Same here!

[@7arkhwf]

​@@LeeGHThomas Bingo, Adv. Fender, was waaay prettier on the DDX!

[@larsgidlof5831]

Wrong, Desert X Rally has pre load adjustment on the forks, also on the normal Desert X

[@lancekmurray]

My thought is the KTM is probably going to handle substantially better offroad, due to the lower center of gravity due to the gas tank engine wrapper design. The Ducati tank looks like the tank from the BMW 1200 GS Adventure. Lots of gas is good, but slinging 6+ gallons through corners and woops while 4'-5' off the ground has to be tiring. The weird/unconventional KTM tank solved that problem admirably, and looks better than the steel buoy stacked on the BMW and Ducati. Be good to see objective rally/race competition between the KTM and Ducati Rally bikes.

[@KTMK73]

This caveat should always be pointed out when comparing fuel tanks

[@dirtbikernv]

Kayaba suspension is great. There's a reason Yamaha has stuck with it and keeps winning. Plushness on an adv is important.

[@babyfknblu]

more of these pls! also more time for spurg's actual take even if it means less time for specs!

[@Showza83]

Gotta love the KTM haters....36k on my 790 Adv R and still ripping.

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

What if want a luxury ADV but don't have money or sense?

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Grand Theft Moto... Just don't get caught.

[@manoloorz]

Grand Theft Moto sounds like your better option.

[@7arkhwf]

​@@manoloorzYea, and the only option!

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

LMFAO!🤣

[@ThisTall]

I’m just glad a company is FINALLY attempting to make actual competition for KTM. For the first time by any company in any model outside motoX

[@terrarecon]

I'll take the Ducati Desert X Rally please.

[@Scratti80]

Oh man the 1090R... the only bike i regret selling...😢

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

I still miss the sound of her voice.... Rottweiler intake with an Akra race exhaust off of a Super Duke.... My 1090 was the best sounding bike I've ever owned....

[@exothermal.sprocket]

I took a rip once on a 1190 Adventure (the non-R model) and boy that Vtwin absolutely ripped.

[@paulg4213]

do I want a Desertx Rally? Yes! Would I ride it off road? No! Am I a Philistine? Yes! probably. Do I have more money than sense? Quite possibly.

[@gerardomusano6919]

Hi have you just read the specs of the Ducati and not seen the video put out by the official youtube chanel ?

[@bsmukler]

Yes, the Rally rear suspension is adjustable for high and low speed compression and rebound, with remote adjustable preload.

[@houjous5131]

Do you have an opinion on the wp xplor vs wp xplor pro? I'm looking to upgrade the 2022 's' Suspension, but too attached to the bike to sell it for a 'r' or 'r rally'

[@charge6267]

Also interested in this for my Husqvarna 701 Enduro.

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Yeah.... While the WP Xplor is is still going to be a decent step up in performance for you, the WP Pro components takes it to a whole new level. It's pretty much the best off-road suspension I've ever used. I wrote an article years ago about working with a WP Service shop to install one on a 790R. The information in there is still up-to-date for the 890's: www.revzilla.com/common-tread/2020-ktm-790-adventure-r-rally-review-the-best-adv-bike-yet Long story short, if money is no object, the WP Pro Components are the way to go. If you want to speak to someone about this, give the guys at Solid Performance KTM in Downingtown, PA a call. They are one of the top WP Service centers in the country and build suspensions for people around the world. They can walk you through any specific questions you have and give you pricing options. They are the main reason I keep buying KTMs. They have killer customer service and know this product inside and out. Good luck! Let me know what you decide, @houjous5131

[@houjous5131]

@SpurgeonDunbar @SpurgeonDunbar awesome, thanks for the lengthy reply and link! I'll have look up the guys from solid performance. I may respring while fund the new forks & shock.

[@bradleyalexander5821]

A bit too rich for my taste. But then again, I’m looking at a 2023 BMW 1250 GS as a cruiser. Got a Tiger for trails.

[@OG_Mereles]

How much money do you have? Please do tell.

[@pinkiewerewolf]

Steve Kamrad was really impressed with the Desert X Rally recently.

[@communistgreyman2078]

Ducati is the way.

[@codforlife]

mic level too high

[@OrangeGenerator]

So the two best production off road motorcycles on the planet both use Tubed rims and yet everyone on the V strom and Transalp reviews and comments were NON STOP WHINGING my god about the tubed tyres..... WHAT NOW ?!

[@dashuntas.m4045]

Good point, the endless complaining gets really annoying

[@frankcastronovo]

Accurate review from a tech standpoint. Rode both on/off am a Ducati road rider but KTM wins with the adventure/off road: so went with the 24 Rally got one of the 700!!! Love the italian thing!

[@sierrarider]

I think you got the suspension facts wrong on the DX - I've seen reviews that state the adjustability of the front and rear

[@georgemorissette8856]

Nice review my USA 890 Rally Bro 🤙🏻

[@robsonenduro3316]

Why KTM discontinued 1090R :(

[@lasseadm-z4t]

Desertx is my next bike its just bad ass

[@CraigSmith568]

Availability may be the deciding factor. I would think a person would be happy with either decision.

[@mdragon99]

The KTM 890 scrotum, I mean fuel tank, saves having to armor up with engine protection while the Ducati still needs full caging.

[@mullayho1759]

The scrotum tank is the reason I went with a 790 over a transalp

[@demonsync57]

Add Norden 901 to the excel please.

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Not a competitor against these two bikes. The Norden 901 is aimed at more of the base 890 Adventure, not the R version and certainly not the Rally. The new Norden 901 Expedition will be similar to the 890 Adventure R/DesertX, but not the regular Norden.

[@demonsync57]

@@SpurgeonDunbar I mean the norden Expedition

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

@@demonsync57 well, than that makes more sense.... But like I said above, the Expedition is going to competing against the base 890 Adventure R as well as the base DesertX. The two Rally versions discussed in this video will remain in a class all their own.

[@leonstrydom9898]

In South Africa the KTM 890R is a quarter of the price less than the Rally version. Does the suspension justify the extra cost in your opinion? And yes we will make use of that extra travel in the suspension in Africa if it's available 😂

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

The Pro Components suspension sold it for me. It's hard to really describe how good it is compared to anything else. Even Zack doubted me, and then he rode my bike. Its not just about the extra travel but rather the overall circuit and valving. It's firm, it's plush, it makes the bike easier to ride if you're tall enough to enjoy it.... I was looking at buying a base model and just upgrading the suspension, but then I found my Rally used at a dealership close to home. I have ZERO regrets.

[@leonstrydom9898]

O my.... That might just push me to pay over my deposit for the Rally in the morning 😱

[@leonstrydom9898]

Paid my deposit today for a 2024 Rally 🎉🎈🎉

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

@@leonstrydom9898 I'm celebrating for you!!

[@cliftonsr]

I would keep the KTM 890 Adventure Rally you got and possibly update the plastic faring or maybe not because being such a rare machine that yours is and if I sold it I would just be as anxious just to quickly replace it with the new KTM 890 Adventure Rally coming out, but swap it for the DesertX Rally?> NEVER!

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

I knew I liked you....

[@sudhinkumars7940]

Wrong the front suspension on 890 adv r is 270mm ..and 240 mm back.

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Nope, with all due respect, you're incorrect. As an owner of one, they feature 270 mm (10.63 inches) of travel front and rear. Still don't believe me? Here is the link to KTM's site: www.ktm.com/en-us/models/travel/ktm-890-adventurerrally2024.html I expected better from you, Sudhinkumars!

[@paulleggett9735]

“standpoint" drinking game.. I'm smashed 4minutes in.

[@elvulch2710]

Ummm… the desert X actually does have a preload adjustment.

[@TheRealTaylorC4]

That Ducati 939 is a fun motor; at least in the 939 Hypermotard. Stat sheets aside, it will interesting to see how they feel from behind the bars.

[@mountainridevideos2749]

On the desertx you need to add proper crash protection to protect the tank atleast. Will add more weight. The KTM can be taken offroad as its coming out of the shop. I love Ducati, but its funny that in the DesertX Manual its state, bring the bike to the Dealer for ever littel thing to avoid warrenty issues, conflicts with what is built for. I sold my DesertX and going for the KTM 890Adventure R. It feels much easier to handle (not top heavy)

[@rc51bigdaddy]

I threw the KTM Pro suspension on my 2022 890r so it is basically Rally spec but without the exclusivity. The Ducati looks great and might even be more reliable than the KTM:) KTM and Ducati aside, the bike that has me excited is the Kove 450 Rally. Just waiting for that bike to be sold road legal. Might compliment or replace my 890r.

[@iwoodbbill69]

I’m 5’10” in heels, but I don’t have any issues with the tall saddle on my 890R.

[@MrJeepinZeke]

That’s a lotta money…. I think I’ll kick around on my ‘85 XL350R for a bit longer and save my pennys… haha

[@exothermal.sprocket]

Scramblers are appealing more to me these days than these gucci ADV machines.

[@billh4301]

Surprised you didn't mention the KTM storing some fuel down low? I've checked out the Ducati and will keep my KTM

[@johnanthony6141]

Desert x is longer about 3 inches. I’m in the market and trying to decide between the 2. Oh wait, BMW F900. I’ve owned lots of Ktm dirt bikes but want something more for Colorado passes. Great comparison. Thanks.

[@MacawAviculture]

KTM 890 R Rally needs a major facelift, that hideous headlight and colors needs to go, along with the complex and problematic electronics. The Desert X Rally is a work of art in typical Ducati design perfection, has simpler electronics and feels lighter to me when riding both. I am leaving KTM forever because of their electronics issues and dated design qualities. I will move on to the Desert X Rally. Great video, thanks for sharing!

[@daveraskin5199]

Specs are specs, but KTM wins out in the gas tank design category - lower center of gravity = better handling off road!

[@terrarecon]

Not sure what you mean when you say, "lower center of gravity." I could assume you mean versus the Ducati Desert X, however, that bike has possibly the best COG of almost any adventure bike in its class.

[@joseaguirre7517]

Till now I can watch this video!! So.. what I'd like to say is.. that I own 2 KTMs.. first one is my 950 SUPER ENDURO 2008 !! THAT.. I won't sale never ever! So and the second one is a 1290 SUPER ADVENTURE R !! It means and show the way I love KTM! But now .. my mind Just changed.... after to see for tje first time the DUCATI DesertX RALLY! SPECS etc .. I'm sure that next year it is going to be in my garage !! 😊 I think it is way ahead better than the 890 R.. ! This is it!! 😊😊😊😊🎉🎉🎉

[@DankoStojanovic]

Don't get mw wrong, the video is great, but if I had seen the price at the beginning I would have moved on to Zack's video. $22k for a toy is just way too much

[@khakimzhanmiras]

cheaper than a new GS

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Toy? OR purpose built off-road weapons? To each their own!

[@charlesmusyoka5890]

I don't own a bike but I've ridden those of my friends. Am a little confused on what you're talking about! But I enjoyed the video. If this guys taught universities, we'd all understand. 😂🔥 Very interesting. Let me climb a tree to find a network spot❤️

[@zecRjee]

also a big plus for ktm is acrapovic exhaust

[@jimu2896]

It's not the new model tanking your value, it's the 890 camshaft debacle..

[@speedytoo]

The DesertX reliability over the KTM is the biggest factor.

[@comfortablyunknown700]

Specs seem to tip towards the KTM. Buuuut, cmon, the looks go to the Ducati. They are just so good and making their bikes pretty. My T7 is still the prettiest girl at the ball.

[@TMTVTX1800]

Spurg, with the new KTM pay twice to keep your features unlocked, Sally should be worth more!

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

I like the way you think!

[@lionelcook8522]

Spec's aside, air filter access is a PIA on the Duck.

[@c.church5661]

I know each bike has its purpose and all, but geez for that price, I’d just go buy a super adventure R, throw the tech pack on it and call it a day.

[@MatBettinson]

Yeah so down under we don't buy bikes for the bush where you have to take the tank off to access the air filter.

[@ig29]

But probably the issues that Ducati os better you simply dont know.. for example maybe the 2024 version is heavier than yours .. so maybe this ia not the right time to do this comparison.. im waiting for a new comparison in the future having a better info on both machines... cheers my friend!!!

[@texasadventurestogo2970]

And here I am, still wanting a Tuareg 660. 😂

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

The Tuareg is a great bike.

[@mikeyb64mb]

You are forgetting that KTM Cam Shafts self destruct in about 1.5 to 2 seasons of ownership ship so you can keep your 890….. I have one so I am speaking from personal experience….. Ducati will get my money next go around

[@flexywing]

Bet you can't get the KTM now, all sold out! 😢

[@christianbailey8113]

The ducatis cams won’t eat themselves hopefully 👍

[@chris_austria]

I never drove the Desert X, but I drove the 950 streetfighter. And that engine is bullshit for driving on roads with narrow corners. Up to to 7000 rpm there happens nothing, you just have to race it all the time. A 790 or 890 KTM goes much better from lower rpms And the suspension of a 890 Rallye is another dimension, if you wanna compare the Desert X the much cheaper Adventure R is the right bike.

[@2WHEELADVLIFE]

Then a T7 pilot shows up and spanks both of them with no electronics by doing everything those two bikes do. Film at 11 back to you Johnny at the studio.

[@jetlee7743]

probaly gas burners. noting ktm gear ratio not so friendly in city streets but off road powerful at lower rpm

[@glennboy66]

Ducati looks better, KTM let down by CF moto engine with possible cam failure looming. Bring back the LC8 KTM

[@viperq]

I don't picture hardcore off roaders paying this much for a new bike.

[@dashuntas.m4045]

It’s mainly going to be Starbucks Princesses (I’m just teasing) that are mostly going to buy these

[@viperq]

@@dashuntas.m4045 Probably right.

[@jayd3931]

I know "hardcore" off road guys that have spent more than this setting up 690/701's in rally spec or buy 450 rally's. If you don't know about off road riding, you wouldn't really understand or be drawn to these bikes. You'd buy a GS. KTM are also pretty particular about who they sell these limited edition bikes to.

[@jetlee7743]

ktm pay for tech pack which ducati includes. plus ducati had cruise control. anyways best to try out for your purpose

[@LooxJJ]

Desert X is rather “meh” when it comes to the off road - also, FIX THE AIR FILTER ISSUE!!!!!!

[@izom]

20grand!? im out - for both :-(

[@enhancdreality]

Both too heavy. I reckon 95% of riders wouldn't be able to do much more than gravel roads on these. Especially once you drop it a couple times and have to pick it up to literally save your life and you realise you don't want to do that again.

[@MtbPoland]

Lucky you...most of us, hard working can not afford it!

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Are you implying I don't work hard? How dare you...

[@MtbPoland]

How dare you accusing me of that?@@SpurgeonDunbar

[@therealturbofanisme]

Sorry spurg, i dont know if that's a joke but complaining that KTM makes a bike that they've made every year of production except 2020 is dumb.

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

They only made a Rally twice before to my knowledge, one production year for the 790 and one production year for the 890... until the 2024 announcement. Also, I wasn't actually complaining. Just making entertaining content for the internet my friend... Not actually complaining, I'm very happy with my bike.

[@therealturbofanisme]

@@SpurgeonDunbar Ah, you're right! I didn't realize they didn't do a rally in 2019. So it's just 2020 for the 790, and 2021 for the 890. Interesting. Anyway, all good. Fun bikes, good comparo.

[@_shreyash_anand]

Okay was the vertical format of the talking head intentional that allowed the fancy ass graphics or did Spurg eff up and they had to save it?😂😂

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

I never make mistakes.

[@kenbowlus2995]

It's tough being perfect in an imperfect world.... a problem that I too must live with every day. 🤣@@SpurgeonDunbar

[@kugangles9860]

Nothing says I have too much money than beating the snot out of a $23k+ bike off road.

[@danielmerlo538]

Interessante Ansätze, man hat wirklich den Eindruck, dass hier Manipulation und Inszenierung mit im Spiel ist!

[@mickleblade]

Uhm, servicing? Air filters...

[@diegocella6791]

The KTM is better looking... and that says it all!

[@terrarecon]

Opinions vary. And that is just fine.

[@MJGAZ64]

That’s a spicy meatball..forget about it….

[@nihvl]

Inches!! You’re using inches to measure suspension travel? God I hate America

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

You're only saying that because 3-inches doesn't sound as impressive as 76 millimeters.... ZING!

[@blackbuttecruizr]

I'm sure America reciprocates... 😂😂😂

[@nihvl]

@@SpurgeonDunbarSUS, pretty sure when you’re working on your motorcycle every metric is perfectly laid out in hamburger units 😂

[@THX5000]

FREEDOM UNITS ;)

[@theprodigalstranger5259]

@@nihvl yet no problem with inches for the seat height, pounds for the weight, horsepower, foot pounds for the torque, or USD for the price?

[@josephreisinger33]

You sound pissed......that's just the way it is, Bro. I have a 2013 VT750rs with 1700 miles on, and you could eat off it and it isn't worth a plugged nickel. Sorry about your, Katoom but welcome to the club.......

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

Just making entertaining content for the internet, Amigo. Self deprecation is more entertaining than not. Couldn't be more happy with my purchase.

[@kenbowlus2995]

We all know that "resale value" is never a consideration for a KTM owner, as they never plan on selling. @@SpurgeonDunbar

[@SpurgeonDunbar]

@@kenbowlus2995 my man!

[@GIGABACHI]

Impressive how the smaller KTM engine makes more TQ. Must be the byproduct of higher C.R. I still can't get over how awful, tacked on and cheap that front fender on the DUC looks. 🤦‍♂️👎 I prefer the regular Desert X's look.

[@obeii1805]

Are these bikes good first bikes? Or I shouldn’t be here lmao 😂 ..

[@unclebuck5051]

I’m sticking with my tried and true KLR. Ducati and KTM can suck it.

[@ericashwell1392]

Short and sweet - Ducati is still a luxury bike and KTM is "ready to race" an actual rally.

[@bikegiant1376]

Yeah I get that perspective and I think there’s *some* truth to it, but it’s still a bit of an oversimplification. I’m a fan of both brands and I would be THRILLED with either! That said, the DX Rally, as spec’ed outperformed the KTM at Erzberg so I’d be a little hesitant to call one a *real* rally bike and the other just eye candy.

[@ericashwell1392]

@bikegiant1376 for sure there is a pedigree with both and performance results shouldn't be taken out of context though (rider, mods for the race/leg, focused data sets, etc. ) My oversimplification was just that, and if it's my money (not a sponsored bike), I would lean towards the KTM as a purpose build, but sure would be happy with either as well 😀

[@terrarecon]

I think you are a little premature with an assessment about a bike (Ducati Desert X Rally) no one has ridden yet.