Zach you and Ari were two of the people that inspired me to get a bike. Got my license last week, got my bike yesterday and after this video I'm headed to a lake and dock to have a cup of coffee just because I can. Haven't been out at 10AM on Saturday in a long time. Keep riding brother you get more people into it
This review was incredible! Riding on the passenger seat with no hands, street jumps, urban dirt donuts and wheelies. This guy is a real pro. Makes me want to get out and ride.
Unsure when this was shot, but as a father I can tell the upcoming (or already happened) baby birth has made the bags under Zach's eyes bigger. Stick in there Zach! You will be a great dad!
Got mine earlier today. I’m replacing a Hypermotard 939SP and not having a second thought. A long and comfy dirt bike with tons of motor and really well balanced handling . Thumbs up!!
Really interesting. As fun as your hypermotard ? I’m thinking about switching to something SuperMoto-styled but that Desert X stares at me dead in the eye ;-)
This is the first honest review I have seen on this bike! All the others just gush over it and say how light it feels. As a guy who just purchased a Norden 901 I as a little nervous that I should have waited. But I went from a 500# plus ADV bike and wanted something much lighter and compact and the Norden really works for me. Thank you Zach, love all your hard work!
Hope the Norden works for you. I considered jumping into it from my 701, but the reliability issues that seemed to be prevalent made me rethink that. Hopefully just an early model issue!
@@SimonBrisbane I honestly think that the choice between the two comes down like 90% to aesthetics. If you truly want a banger mid-weight adv bike for smashing offroad, just get the 890R and call it a day.
Ive had mine for about two weeks and all I can say is it the most fun I've ever had on a motorcycle I I also have a Kim 500 - they feel the same - the bike feels extremely light to me - I throw it around on the road like I do the Kim on the dirt - the power is amazing - coming off a BMW rally 850 (which was awesome just different ) it feels like a sport bike for the dirt. Some people who think its heavy should ride it before they assume because it feels as light as the t7 but with a hell of a lot more power
Interesting. I’m riding an F850 GSA and was thinking to upgrade to an R1250 GS Rally but the DesertX got me interested and reading your experience even more!
Same on it feeling light! I was worried because I initially wanted a lighter bike for of road but it feels light to me. Even when picking it up (flat ground)
Ducati has one of these, fully kitted out, in the foyer of their museum, in which of course visitors can see the original Cagiva Elephant, complete with battle scars and road book (with the rider’s handwritten notes). The overall design of the new bike really captures the essence of the original, which is wonderful. Brilliant design and engineering.
When the DesertX was first announced, i immediately thought of my '08 Multistrada 1100S. It was quite hated when it first came out though lol. I put some Continental TKC80's on it and a wider bar, and man, it'll go absolutes anywhere! 5 gallon tank getting 45mpg. Almost 100lbs lighter than the DesertX 😳. It's a great fun bike for those of you who can't afford the DesertX (like me lol). Definitely wanna ride one of these though!
Gotta agree with you - I was lucky enough to ride a desert X on a variety of roads and twisties, and they’ve done an incredible job. It is tall, but…. You could ditch every other bike in your life and just have this. Great handling, even with the 21” front, plenty of power, plenty of tech and comfort, superb brakes, character, practical, great looks and can handle some dirt. I loved it.
My two cents: 517 lbs, 900+ CC engine is not - IS NOT - a middle weight bike. That bike is in the same category as an Africa Twin which is considered a full-size ADV. It might LOOK something like a rally inspired motorcycle, (example: Tenere 700) but it's not. Definitely doesn't have a middle weight price tag either.
@@zacharyhazard6646doesn’t shake on the highway. I’ve been riding one daily for the past week and it is the most stable adventure bike I’ve ridden besides a GS.
Interesting. I just rode this bike in Spain and loved it. The other half dozen guys I was with liked it not so much. They left it in the driveway versus the R1250GS, Multi V4s, Tiger 1200 and 900, and even the Versys 1000. Shocked me. I thought it sounded great, rode well, stopped great, and handled very well even on asphalt with the 21 incher on non street oriented rubber. Seems to be a wider opinion on the thing. Had me grinning 🤷♂️
Zack I’m clear that your are a more experienced and skilled rider than myself. That being said the sitting on the passenger seat on cruise control part feels a little sketchy. They don’t see us. Anywho,, love your content. Big fan!💪🏽
The weight question is all relative. I came to the Desert X from a Multistrada Enduro and a KTM Super Adventure. It's way lighter and more nimble than those (although both great bikes in their own right). I think it's the perfect adventure bike compromise - it's going to be heavier than a Tuareg, but it's got 30% more capacity. Bike magazine's bike of the year for good reason. And it evokes memories of my old Cagiva/Ducati Elefants
I love my Desert X. The crash bars don't vibrate if they are installed correctly. The torque settings need to be perfectly set. I rode mine with and without the bars, and noticed no difference. I am also 6ft, and found the screen to be fine. Off-road it's amazing, and easy to forget that it's so big. My single track Moto is a CRF300 and I wouldn't take my X to single track, but man, they hit the sweet spot with the X and I plan to ride to Alaska in the future. I ma lucky enough to have a Multistrada Pikes Peak too..... which is a sport touring weapon with the "correct" sized wheel for it (17 inch) There is an argument for owning both! :-)
I was watching the 70mph comparison to rpm and noticed the motor going over 5,000rpm, and if it were me personally if I took that long of a trip I would probably gear it up one tooth more on the front sprocket and it might help if the vibration gets to you traveling for long miles. And considering a lot of varying temperatures take along an extra timing belt just in case. I think Ducati is an awesome machine and I am so tempted to purchase one due to the fact that my nearest favorite motorcycle dealership has one of these Desert X and they look absolutely awesome!
@@cliftonsr For sure. For reference, i’ve owned every Multistrada since they came out, along with a few GS’ along the way. When the 950s Multi came out i thought that was the Goldilocks Moto, but have been pleasantly surprised at how well the X tours. I just completed a short 600 mile Fall tour on it. It’s really capable on the pavement, and when curiousity strikes when you see a fire road off the pavement, the X is so confidence inspiring. It really hits a sweet spot that other (admittedly cheaper) bikes like the DR650 etc don’t, especially when balancing street and dirt.
@@KiwiMoto72 do you find the desert X better than the 950/v2s because you do a little more off-roading than the 950 could handle? I'm seriously considering the v2s for long rides and twisty roads and the occasional gravel road. Like you I have my klx300 for single track.
@@chrisnarnos it’s a great question. It has the same engine but it way way more capable off road. Night and day. I think the X is mighty capable as a tourer and i plan to ride it to Alaska next year. I like the options it gives me. BUT if you only think you will be hitting gravel and not a lot of dirt, the v2 Multi is more than capable. Personally i’m lucky to have the PP Multi for sport touring and the X for the off road stuff
T7 looks like crap compared to this. not that the T7 is bad but quality comes with a price tag. you get what you pay for. is this better than the 901 or Tuareg or even AT? we need and ADV middleweight countdown Zach. enjoy your videos like always cheers.
One thing to note about the Desert X.......you have to visit the dealership for every little maintenance that you're supposed to be able to do at home. Even adjustment of the chain tension. Just go for the Japanese or a GS. The japanese are known to be reliable and the GS is pretty much the pioneering ADV anyway
Nice vid, but for med distance travel bike, I'm leaning towards the Tiger 900, which I have and the spicy Tuareg. Love the Ducs, but I'd have to get it lowered and the weight is kinda buzz kill. Kinda cool the Aprilia is on top of the leader board.
I ended up getting the x over the 900. When I tested the 900 it felt taller from the ground for me. I’m just under 5”9 and the balls of my feet were on the ground with the x. The main difference for me was the look of the bike … the 900 looked great in photos but in reality from the seat wasn’t nearly as pretty :) But each to their own. I have also ordered the lowering kit. So your height isn’t as important as your in seam … plenty of 6”2 guys only have 32” in seams.
@@Iron883NZ wow, really. I'm 5'8 w/32 inseam and the Tiger just felt great. The X wasn't out yet and I've not seen it in the flesh yet either. I'll have to take a look.
@@joematiacio3449 I’m fitting the lower seat option next week so will let you know if it makes much difference … I’m about a 31” in seam … i have ordered but I have to wait for the lowering springs
I am *pretty sure* I got my 2018 ATAS with 2000 miles on the clock in 2021 *because* at 6'5" I can only just flat foot it. Tall man need a tall bike. Good to see there are more of them.
What on earth is that steering damper doing next to the bars in plain sight ?? Just in the right place to interfere with tank bags etc, not to mention looking terrible.
I'm falling for this bike. Sat on it in the dealership a few times.... fits me like a glove. I'm thinking of renting it for a day with my gf to be sure. Worried about passenger comfort, and wind bufetting. Usually, I prefer a shorter windscreen, not longer. So my head is in clean air.
This is an excellent video, and ya gotta love Zack. I'm sure this can be a great bike for someone ~5'10" or taller. But a 34.4" (even 33.3" losing ground clearance) seat and 517lbs wet weight is a deal breaker for me at 5'4"! I owned a MultiStrada 1000 S V2, and I had a heck of a time bringing the side stand up. Also, I had to hit the start button several times to get the engine to just the right point before it would actually start. Wouldn't make it on my Daily Rider list. Not for everyone.
Hi Zach, Im going around in circles like a mad dog, GS 1250 Rally Or the Desert X.....Daily ride, from job to job (photographer) Your opinion would be greatly appreciated mate, I love both.....6'4" and confused.....
Zack, I love your review format. But Would love to see your 'research' videos where you take the bike to canyons, single track, etc to get ready for this video. You mention your research rides, but would love to see them.
Great bike, thanks for the thorough review. I’ve been very interested in this bike since it came out. Still, and all, I’m thinking that a 1200cc, or 1250cc adventure bike would be more appropriate, if you’re going to spend that much money. I have an ‘06 Kawasaki KLR650. It’s been my daily rider since ‘07, and has 75,000+ miles on it. Still runs like brand new. I’m definitely in the market for a larger adventure bike. My other bike is a Honda CRF300 Rally. An excellent, street legal off-road bike.
Yes, I agree. I was waiting to see if Zack was going to make any comments on that. I owned a Ducati Scrambler for about 22k miles and even with the aircooled 2V engine it was horrendously expensive to have serviced (quoted over $900 for a major service at the dealer -- I paid $700ish for a major service with two shims changed at a local independent shop) -- which was a primary reason for trading it on a Japanese bike. However, the Scrambler had 7500 mile valve checks -- I'm pretty certain that the water cooled 4V engine in the Desert X has 18K mile valve checks, which is comparable to anything Japanese these days. And, unfortunately, servicing a big Japanese bike you might compare the Desert X to, like, say, an Africa Twin, has gotten ridiculously expensive these days too. We live in an age where motorcycles are awesome, but they cost $20k and you gotta drop $1k every time you leave it for service unless you have the time, tools, SPACE, and skills and desire to do the work yourself.
You can get MBP keepers for the 2V bikes that push checks to 18,000 miles. I don't know why they haven't gone to that design from the factory. The air cooled 2V DesmoDue is so easy to adjust, many do it themselves.
I'm thinking for 80% of people out there, the Pan America's auto lowering feature will make it a much better daily rider in stop and go traffic than the desert x. Not a big deal if you're 6'2", but most people aren't. You also get more motor for the money with the Pan Am, with hydraulic lifters avoiding expensive valve checks.
Bought the first Pan America sold in Tennessee in May of 2021. Traded it back in a year later with 1900 miles on it. The bike is a cooker in the heat and has a TERRIBLE drone from the airbox and there is NOTHING you can do about it. Almost gives you a headache. I so wanted to like that bike as I am a long time Harley guy.
I would like to see some benelli's on a daily writer. Leaderboard maybe start with the TNT 135 anyone who wants to see that. Please feel free to give this comment a thumbs up.
The desert x is absolutely awesome. I’ll admit, the only drawback is premium price tag for service and less aftermarket options (currently) for things like luggage, but the main platform is a phenomenal bike - it’s not a GS in terms of touring, but it is a damn good street bike and will surprise you how well it rides off road. Go watch Steve kamrads review.
Yep, tbh the price + Ducati costs for parts and servicing for me make its off-road performance basically irrelevant. It’ll cost so much to take this off road properly that it would have to absolutely smash the existing market… which is actually already stocked full of superb off road bikes across all disciplines. Expect to see a lot of them tackling the terrain to the coffee shop, but I don’t expect to see many tackling anything more than a few unsealed roads a year. But hey, the SUV car market has made a fortune selling off-road cars that never get dirty, so I reckon VW know what they’re doing
@@skipole09 sure, where’s the Ducati dealer that let you test ride one in the dirt? So you’re really saying - from experience - it not only beats EVERY other offering, but it does it by such a degree that the massive cost difference of purchase and running it in the dirt is worth it? Tbh I can’t see how you’d have that experience without having bought one or been given a free one to test by Ducati… and then that’s not exactly unbiased is it? I’m calling BS here. I’ll buy it’s good in the dirt, but I’m not buying what you’re selling my friend. Buy it for the badge. Buy it because you were born with a silver spoon… but my point was that the price to buy and run in the dirt isn’t going to be worth it against all competition… yeah I can defo stand by that - the cost different alone a massive, and the competition so good.
@@Bobby-wn5yr I've owned 3 GS's, 2 990's, an 1190R, and have ridden friends T7's, Toureg's, 790's, 890's, Tiger 800's and tested a tiger 900 and 1200 rally pro - I bought the desert x on the spot. I'm not the Guru, but trust me, this bike is fire. Is it the best of the bunch? GS is a better touring bike and the 890 is better in the dirt, but Ducati did an awesome job with this platform for their first go around. I encourage you to go watch steve kamrads (adv pulse) review.
@@Bobby-wn5yr I own one - I've had it in the dirt many times now. Its the best platform I've ever ridden. I'm not saying it beats out the 790 or 890, but its close and in my opinion its a better street bike than those.
Vertical TFT just seems superior to me. I like this bike more the more I look at it. Very aggressive. Awesome headlights. Unfortunately for me, Ducati's seem to generally require dealer service (which I don't love), but made worse by my closest dealer being 250 miles away.
I’ve got the same engine in a Multi V2S, like this version but it’s too tall and as 90% of riders never go off road I think the Multi is a better package..like my previous GSs it’s just a Starbucks adventure bike.
So a review of a Dakar type bike that doesn’t go off road at all! Granted some Will buy it’s looks and never take it off road but the review completely ignores its quality as an off road bike! As reviews go for the Desert X pretty pointless. Ryan F9’s absolutely brilliant, covers all sides and bloodstains funny and entertaining too!
i love the bike, love the power and handling of a lighter feeling bike. i ride mine 5 days a week 70 miles round trip to work and back, 8 of those mile round trip is dirt road.
I know ADV bikes handle well but this thing is exceptional. It feels like a big supermoto to me. Put it this way, Could you wheelie and back in any other adv like it?. It’s an incredible bike. I test rode it and immediately bought it
It’s not necessarily the specs but how does the bike make you feel. Some people like hot rods some like Lambos. What pulls on your heart strings. What makes you take a second look as you walk away every day. Some bikes keep drawing your attention even when not running like art.
You can't really work much on these bikes as the Ducati Desert X manual reads over and over "See Local Dealership" for everything. My buddy rode it, but owns the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro and he said both are good, but the better value and performance straight up, was the Tiger Rally Pro 900. It DEF looks better imo too LOL.
I personally would much rather own the Multistrada V2S. Slighty lower seat height (i am 1.79 so about 5.10/5.11), a more road orientated tyre size, electronically adjustable suspension and subjectively better looks imo. I reckon most owners will mostly ride it on the road probably not enough offroad (or hard enough) to really need the different rim/tyre size for the extra offroad abilities.
These new middle weight bikes are the way to go. There will always be expensive Halo bikes with all the whistles and high tech. But that filters down later to their other bikes this bike is beautiful. Ducati building some real winners. So much R&D behind Ducati as owned Audi/VW. Also owns Lambo, Porsche, Bugatti, and Bentley
Thanks Zack for the video! I rode it last week for a 2 hours Great looking bike It is tall and vibrates a lot The air filter is under the tank and it has to be removed to replace it , on a off road bike? I don't think is convenient for me Price is high for a medium size adv bike.
Hey Zack, just wanted to say that you should stop telling us your height when it comes to talking about the seat height of the bike and flat footing and switch to your inseam because that paints a better picture for use since your height doesn't always tell the whole story about your leg length as some people can be tall because of their torso rather than legs.
I've never seen a logo just appear on a wall like that. Michelin's tech is either that good or RevZilla have literal wizards on their team. Kinda freaky but I still wish to see something like this in real life one day
Zach, take a look at the R1250R as a DR. I commute on a ‘15 R1200R (same bike) and feel it is perfect. I’d love to hear what you think. Get one with ESA and all the goodies too.
Had a DesertX on hold at my local dealer but didn’t want to wait all Summer to get the bike, and longer for all the overpriced accessories I wanted for the bike. Cancelled the Duc and bought the 2023 Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer. I know you liked that bike at the press junket, but is a Daily Rider test coming? Thanks Zach, and I think of you and Ari every time I visit the Denver RevZilla store (your Dumb & Dumber mini bike’s in their front window)!
As the owner of three Ducatis, I love them but I’m so tired of the constant repairs. You drop this kind of money you expect supreme. While they are supreme when they run they don’t run supreme as often as they should.
i wonder if the vibes stop or lessen after the bikes break in ?? i really feel like my husky 901 did smoth out a lot after 4k+ miles and a few oil changes
Not sure the price comparo is fair. The standard model costs about $17k, which is spicy, but has all the mod cons. For perspective - the top line Suzuki Vstrom 1050 costs the same, and while I have full respect for Suzuki, it is the dad jeans of adv bikes.
Read Spurgeon's thoughts on the Ducati DesertX on Common Tread! rvz.la/3UlSy1C
And if your bike needs new rubber, check out Michelin! rvz.la/3UpTr9v
forgot video stabilization ?
Will it power wheelie in first and second?
Where's the KTM 890 Adventure stack up??
Zach you and Ari were two of the people that inspired me to get a bike. Got my license last week, got my bike yesterday and after this video I'm headed to a lake and dock to have a cup of coffee just because I can. Haven't been out at 10AM on Saturday in a long time. Keep riding brother you get more people into it
What bike do ya have?
I miss Zach and ari segments… such Chemistry
@@BlindfoldedFox same man
@@cessnadriver9885 2022 Royal Enfield INT650
Welcome to the life.
The passenger POV was the best part of this whole thing
Yeah, it was fortunate that Zack filmed this near Halloween and was able to ride with someone wearing an Invisible Man costume!😀
That was spectacular, and something I may or may not want to try on my Tuareg 😂
The dirt and wheelie were fun too
The POV was great
This review was incredible! Riding on the passenger seat with no hands, street jumps, urban dirt donuts and wheelies. This guy is a real pro. Makes me want to get out and ride.
Unsure when this was shot, but as a father I can tell the upcoming (or already happened) baby birth has made the bags under Zach's eyes bigger.
Stick in there Zach! You will be a great dad!
Got mine earlier today. I’m replacing a Hypermotard 939SP and not having a second thought. A long and comfy dirt bike with tons of motor and really well balanced handling . Thumbs up!!
Really interesting. As fun as your hypermotard ? I’m thinking about switching to something SuperMoto-styled but that Desert X stares at me dead in the eye ;-)
I couldn't make it out of the Ducati configurator without getting the pricetag below $22K. Went for the Aprilia.
This is the first honest review I have seen on this bike! All the others just gush over it and say how light it feels. As a guy who just purchased a Norden 901 I as a little nervous that I should have waited. But I went from a 500# plus ADV bike and wanted something much lighter and compact and the Norden really works for me. Thank you Zach, love all your hard work!
Spite did a review on the Desert X and didn't really like it, relative of course to his expectations.
Hope the Norden works for you. I considered jumping into it from my 701, but the reliability issues that seemed to be prevalent made me rethink that. Hopefully just an early model issue!
I would recommend checking out Big Rock Moto's reviews for adv bikes, incredibly thorough compared to most and always transparent about flaws.
🤔the Norden is 480lbs (218KG). Desert X 492lbs (223KG) Neither are lightweight, neither are compact 🧐
@@SimonBrisbane I honestly think that the choice between the two comes down like 90% to aesthetics. If you truly want a banger mid-weight adv bike for smashing offroad, just get the 890R and call it a day.
Ive had mine for about two weeks and all I can say is it the most fun I've ever had on a motorcycle I I also have a Kim 500 - they feel the same - the bike feels extremely light to me - I throw it around on the road like I do the Kim on the dirt - the power is amazing - coming off a BMW rally 850 (which was awesome just different ) it feels like a sport bike for the dirt. Some people who think its heavy should ride it before they assume because it feels as light as the t7 but with a hell of a lot more power
Interesting. I’m riding an F850 GSA and was thinking to upgrade to an R1250 GS Rally but the DesertX got me interested and reading your experience even more!
Same on it feeling light! I was worried because I initially wanted a lighter bike for of road but it feels light to me. Even when picking it up (flat ground)
Similar experience here. I own an F 850 GSA, a fantastic motorcycle, and the DesertX feels lower and lighter like a T7.
Ducati has one of these, fully kitted out, in the foyer of their museum, in which of course visitors can see the original Cagiva Elephant, complete with battle scars and road book (with the rider’s handwritten notes). The overall design of the new bike really captures the essence of the original, which is wonderful. Brilliant design and engineering.
RIP jump, we will never forget
When the DesertX was first announced, i immediately thought of my '08 Multistrada 1100S. It was quite hated when it first came out though lol. I put some Continental TKC80's on it and a wider bar, and man, it'll go absolutes anywhere! 5 gallon tank getting 45mpg. Almost 100lbs lighter than the DesertX 😳. It's a great fun bike for those of you who can't afford the DesertX (like me lol). Definitely wanna ride one of these though!
That passenger POV stunt was sick. 😂
Been looking forward to this one! All hail the double headlights
Gotta agree with you - I was lucky enough to ride a desert X on a variety of roads and twisties, and they’ve done an incredible job. It is tall, but….
You could ditch every other bike in your life and just have this.
Great handling, even with the 21” front, plenty of power, plenty of tech and comfort, superb brakes, character, practical, great looks and can handle some dirt. I loved it.
“Guzzaline” 🤔 sounds like a Road Warrior reference. Fits real nice with the Desert themed vid. Solid work Mr. Courts. Solid work.
"What a day, what a lovely day"! 😅
I like how the midsize segment nowadays has engines that are almost a liter. 😆
Because the land whales keep getting bigger and bigger. R1300GS coming.... 🐋
We can also thank emissions for that unfortunately
I love these reviews...they remind me just how much bike I get for the money with my Gen 3 KLR 650. 🤣
I have a Versys 650 from 2008 since January as my first bike, and I love the love it gets from Revzilla.
Great review as always
Could you guys put metric numbers for weight und fuel consumption on the screen? Would be really helpful.
Love these reviews. Always hit them when I see a new one. And really interested in this DesertX does anyone else think it has stormtrooper vibes?
Fortnine certainly think so. Check out their Desert X video review.
My two cents: 517 lbs, 900+ CC engine is not - IS NOT - a middle weight bike. That bike is in the same category as an Africa Twin which is considered a full-size ADV. It might LOOK something like a rally inspired motorcycle, (example: Tenere 700) but it's not. Definitely doesn't have a middle weight price tag either.
Shakes on the highway, too heavy to really off road, twenty grand, no, just no
It, and the Africa Twin are very much middleweights albeit under the modern definition. Heavyweight adventure bikes are now 130hp plus.
Haven't Ridden a african twin but just from sitting on it, my desertx feels alot lighter.
@Zachary Hazard my desertx doesn't shake on the highway?
@@zacharyhazard6646doesn’t shake on the highway. I’ve been riding one daily for the past week and it is the most stable adventure bike I’ve ridden besides a GS.
I was honestly waiting for the jump. Sad to see it gone :(
💔
Interesting. I just rode this bike in Spain and loved it. The other half dozen guys I was with liked it not so much. They left it in the driveway versus the R1250GS, Multi V4s, Tiger 1200 and 900, and even the Versys 1000. Shocked me. I thought it sounded great, rode well, stopped great, and handled very well even on asphalt with the 21 incher on non street oriented rubber. Seems to be a wider opinion on the thing. Had me grinning 🤷♂️
Love the review. I was questioning its wheelie-ability given the long wheelbase. Glad you quashed those fears!
Wow Ducati! You just remanufactured a '05 BMW R1200GS. Great Job!!!
Zack I’m clear that your are a more experienced and skilled rider than myself. That being said the sitting on the passenger seat on cruise control part feels a little sketchy. They don’t see us. Anywho,, love your content. Big fan!💪🏽
The weight question is all relative. I came to the Desert X from a Multistrada Enduro and a KTM Super Adventure. It's way lighter and more nimble than those (although both great bikes in their own right). I think it's the perfect adventure bike compromise - it's going to be heavier than a Tuareg, but it's got 30% more capacity. Bike magazine's bike of the year for good reason. And it evokes memories of my old Cagiva/Ducati Elefants
Actually, this bike looks like one of the most successful bikes ever made by Cagiva; Cagiva Elephant 900. You can't go wrong with this bike.
Unless you have a 28 inch inseam
You’re my favorite reviewer
I love my Desert X. The crash bars don't vibrate if they are installed correctly. The torque settings need to be perfectly set. I rode mine with and without the bars, and noticed no difference. I am also 6ft, and found the screen to be fine. Off-road it's amazing, and easy to forget that it's so big. My single track Moto is a CRF300 and I wouldn't take my X to single track, but man, they hit the sweet spot with the X and I plan to ride to Alaska in the future. I ma lucky enough to have a Multistrada Pikes Peak too..... which is a sport touring weapon with the "correct" sized wheel for it (17 inch) There is an argument for owning both! :-)
I was watching the 70mph comparison to rpm and noticed the motor going over 5,000rpm, and if it were me personally if I took that long of a trip I would probably gear it up one tooth more on the front sprocket and it might help if the vibration gets to you traveling for long miles. And considering a lot of varying temperatures take along an extra timing belt just in case. I think Ducati is an awesome machine and I am so tempted to purchase one due to the fact that my nearest favorite motorcycle dealership has one of these Desert X and they look absolutely awesome!
@@cliftonsr For sure. For reference, i’ve owned every Multistrada since they came out, along with a few GS’ along the way. When the 950s Multi came out i thought that was the Goldilocks Moto, but have been pleasantly surprised at how well the X tours. I just completed a short 600 mile Fall tour on it. It’s really capable on the pavement, and when curiousity strikes when you see a fire road off the pavement, the X is so confidence inspiring. It really hits a sweet spot that other (admittedly cheaper) bikes like the DR650 etc don’t, especially when balancing street and dirt.
@@KiwiMoto72 do you find the desert X better than the 950/v2s because you do a little more off-roading than the 950 could handle? I'm seriously considering the v2s for long rides and twisty roads and the occasional gravel road. Like you I have my klx300 for single track.
@@chrisnarnos it’s a great question. It has the same engine but it way way more capable off road. Night and day. I think the X is mighty capable as a tourer and i plan to ride it to Alaska next year. I like the options it gives me. BUT if you only think you will be hitting gravel and not a lot of dirt, the v2 Multi is more than capable. Personally i’m lucky to have the PP Multi for sport touring and the X for the off road stuff
T7 looks like crap compared to this. not that the T7 is bad but quality comes with a price tag. you get what you pay for. is this better than the 901 or Tuareg or even AT? we need and ADV middleweight countdown Zach. enjoy your videos like always cheers.
One thing to note about the Desert X.......you have to visit the dealership for every little maintenance that you're supposed to be able to do at home. Even adjustment of the chain tension.
Just go for the Japanese or a GS. The japanese are known to be reliable and the GS is pretty much the pioneering ADV anyway
That can't be the case.
Please, elaborate more on it.
@@GIGABACHIThe owners manual instructions for every minor maintenance item just says “Go to an authorized Ducati service center”.
Great ride Zach. Nice bike, definitely different!
Best wishes on the pending birth of your new baby, yes you will be a great dad!
Nice vid, but for med distance travel bike, I'm leaning towards the Tiger 900, which I have and the spicy Tuareg. Love the Ducs, but I'd have to get it lowered and the weight is kinda buzz kill. Kinda cool the Aprilia is on top of the leader board.
I ended up getting the x over the 900. When I tested the 900 it felt taller from the ground for me. I’m just under 5”9 and the balls of my feet were on the ground with the x. The main difference for me was the look of the bike … the 900 looked great in photos but in reality from the seat wasn’t nearly as pretty :) But each to their own. I have also ordered the lowering kit. So your height isn’t as important as your in seam … plenty of 6”2 guys only have 32” in seams.
@@Iron883NZ wow, really. I'm 5'8 w/32 inseam and the Tiger just felt great. The X wasn't out yet and I've not seen it in the flesh yet either. I'll have to take a look.
@@joematiacio3449 I’m fitting the lower seat option next week so will let you know if it makes much difference … I’m about a 31” in seam … i have ordered but I have to wait for the lowering springs
This bike owes so much to the Ducati-powered Cagiva Elefant.
Amen! 🙌
Zack I love your enthusiasm! It reminds me of Clint on Clint’s Reptiles. Enthusiasm is infectious!
Feel like I'm looking at the back of Darth Vader's head throughout this video.
Since you pointed it out, I'll never get that image out of my head.....LOL!!
1 more reason to buy them haha
Really cool bike. Price tag is a little much though, even for a Ducati.
I am *pretty sure* I got my 2018 ATAS with 2000 miles on the clock in 2021 *because* at 6'5" I can only just flat foot it. Tall man need a tall bike. Good to see there are more of them.
Amen brother
What on earth is that steering damper doing next to the bars in plain sight ?? Just in the right place to interfere with tank bags etc, not to mention looking terrible.
One of the more beautiful adventure bikes tbh, will have to keep na eye on this one
I'm falling for this bike. Sat on it in the dealership a few times.... fits me like a glove. I'm thinking of renting it for a day with my gf to be sure. Worried about passenger comfort, and wind bufetting. Usually, I prefer a shorter windscreen, not longer. So my head is in clean air.
Nice bike, but the ginormous gradient dots on the windscreen would drive me nucking futs. Perfect example of style interfering with function.
The pattern on the visor doesn’t interfere with vision and hides the wiring of the instrument cluster.
Awesome review! Would be a little bit helpful if you add notes on how the imperial measures translate to metric measures. But overall very enjoyable.
As someone who uses "freedom" units, I agree with you.
It would broaden more their viewing audience. 👌😊
This is an excellent video, and ya gotta love Zack. I'm sure this can be a great bike for someone ~5'10" or taller. But a 34.4" (even 33.3" losing ground clearance) seat and 517lbs wet weight is a deal breaker for me at 5'4"! I owned a MultiStrada 1000 S V2, and I had a heck of a time bringing the side stand up. Also, I had to hit the start button several times to get the engine to just the right point before it would actually start. Wouldn't make it on my Daily Rider list. Not for everyone.
Love the meatball comparison, another wonderful daily rider review!!!
Hi Zach, Im going around in circles like a mad dog, GS 1250 Rally Or the Desert X.....Daily ride, from job to job (photographer) Your opinion would be greatly appreciated mate, I love both.....6'4" and confused.....
Zack, I love your review format. But Would love to see your 'research' videos where you take the bike to canyons, single track, etc to get ready for this video. You mention your research rides, but would love to see them.
Great bike, thanks for the thorough review.
I’ve been very interested in this bike since it came out.
Still, and all, I’m thinking that a 1200cc, or 1250cc adventure bike would be more appropriate, if you’re going to spend that much money.
I have an ‘06 Kawasaki KLR650. It’s been my daily rider since ‘07, and has 75,000+ miles on it. Still runs like brand new.
I’m definitely in the market for a larger adventure bike.
My other bike is a Honda CRF300 Rally. An excellent, street legal off-road bike.
This is the best looking mid-weight ADV. But price!!!!! Patiently waiting for used market to get saturated with ex-trader's regrets :)
Shouldn’t cost of ownership be part of a daily rider discussion? Valve adjustment and frequency for example.
Yes, I agree. I was waiting to see if Zack was going to make any comments on that. I owned a Ducati Scrambler for about 22k miles and even with the aircooled 2V engine it was horrendously expensive to have serviced (quoted over $900 for a major service at the dealer -- I paid $700ish for a major service with two shims changed at a local independent shop) -- which was a primary reason for trading it on a Japanese bike. However, the Scrambler had 7500 mile valve checks -- I'm pretty certain that the water cooled 4V engine in the Desert X has 18K mile valve checks, which is comparable to anything Japanese these days. And, unfortunately, servicing a big Japanese bike you might compare the Desert X to, like, say, an Africa Twin, has gotten ridiculously expensive these days too. We live in an age where motorcycles are awesome, but they cost $20k and you gotta drop $1k every time you leave it for service unless you have the time, tools, SPACE, and skills and desire to do the work yourself.
You can get MBP keepers for the 2V bikes that push checks to 18,000 miles. I don't know why they haven't gone to that design from the factory. The air cooled 2V DesmoDue is so easy to adjust, many do it themselves.
I'm thinking for 80% of people out there, the Pan America's auto lowering feature will make it a much better daily rider in stop and go traffic than the desert x. Not a big deal if you're 6'2", but most people aren't. You also get more motor for the money with the Pan Am, with hydraulic lifters avoiding expensive valve checks.
Bought the first Pan America sold in Tennessee in May of 2021. Traded it back in a year later with 1900 miles on it. The bike is a cooker in the heat and has a TERRIBLE drone from the airbox and there is NOTHING you can do about it. Almost gives you a headache. I so wanted to like that bike as I am a long time Harley guy.
I would like to see some benelli's on a daily writer. Leaderboard maybe start with the TNT 135 anyone who wants to see that. Please feel free to give this comment a thumbs up.
The desert x is absolutely awesome. I’ll admit, the only drawback is premium price tag for service and less aftermarket options (currently) for things like luggage, but the main platform is a phenomenal bike - it’s not a GS in terms of touring, but it is a damn good street bike and will surprise you how well it rides off road. Go watch Steve kamrads review.
Yep, tbh the price + Ducati costs for parts and servicing for me make its off-road performance basically irrelevant. It’ll cost so much to take this off road properly that it would have to absolutely smash the existing market… which is actually already stocked full of superb off road bikes across all disciplines.
Expect to see a lot of them tackling the terrain to the coffee shop, but I don’t expect to see many tackling anything more than a few unsealed roads a year.
But hey, the SUV car market has made a fortune selling off-road cars that never get dirty, so I reckon VW know what they’re doing
@@Bobby-wn5yr go ride a desert x and be prepared to take your foot out of your mouth my man...
@@skipole09 sure, where’s the Ducati dealer that let you test ride one in the dirt?
So you’re really saying - from experience - it not only beats EVERY other offering, but it does it by such a degree that the massive cost difference of purchase and running it in the dirt is worth it? Tbh I can’t see how you’d have that experience without having bought one or been given a free one to test by Ducati… and then that’s not exactly unbiased is it?
I’m calling BS here. I’ll buy it’s good in the dirt, but I’m not buying what you’re selling my friend. Buy it for the badge. Buy it because you were born with a silver spoon… but my point was that the price to buy and run in the dirt isn’t going to be worth it against all competition… yeah I can defo stand by that - the cost different alone a massive, and the competition so good.
@@Bobby-wn5yr I've owned 3 GS's, 2 990's, an 1190R, and have ridden friends T7's, Toureg's, 790's, 890's, Tiger 800's and tested a tiger 900 and 1200 rally pro - I bought the desert x on the spot. I'm not the Guru, but trust me, this bike is fire. Is it the best of the bunch? GS is a better touring bike and the 890 is better in the dirt, but Ducati did an awesome job with this platform for their first go around. I encourage you to go watch steve kamrads (adv pulse) review.
@@Bobby-wn5yr I own one - I've had it in the dirt many times now. Its the best platform I've ever ridden. I'm not saying it beats out the 790 or 890, but its close and in my opinion its a better street bike than those.
I would love to learn to ride even half as good as you. It amazes me every videos.
Vertical TFT just seems superior to me.
I like this bike more the more I look at it. Very aggressive. Awesome headlights. Unfortunately for me, Ducati's seem to generally require dealer service (which I don't love), but made worse by my closest dealer being 250 miles away.
Man, this review was so good. What a great ride and rider.
I’ve got the same engine in a Multi V2S, like this version but it’s too tall and as 90% of riders never go off road I think the Multi is a better package..like my previous GSs it’s just a Starbucks adventure bike.
Always the most thorough and enjoyable review - thanks
So a review of a Dakar type bike that doesn’t go off road at all!
Granted some Will buy it’s looks and never take it off road but the review completely ignores its quality as an off road bike!
As reviews go for the Desert X pretty pointless.
Ryan F9’s absolutely brilliant, covers all sides and bloodstains funny and entertaining too!
i love the bike, love the power and handling of a lighter feeling bike. i ride mine 5 days a week 70 miles round trip to work and back, 8 of those mile round trip is dirt road.
The backseat test is just amazing!
Maybe one of the last things I want to be on while I am 50 miles from anywhere is going to be a Ducati.
I'd love to see you get the new Guzzi on a daily ride but it's a very fresh bike!
I know ADV bikes handle well but this thing is exceptional. It feels like a big supermoto to me. Put it this way, Could you wheelie and back in any other adv like it?. It’s an incredible bike. I test rode it and immediately bought it
It’s not necessarily the specs but how does the bike make you feel. Some people like hot rods some like Lambos. What pulls on your heart strings. What makes you take a second look as you walk away every day. Some bikes keep drawing your attention even when not running like art.
You can't really work much on these bikes as the Ducati Desert X manual reads over and over "See Local Dealership" for everything. My buddy rode it, but owns the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally Pro and he said both are good, but the better value and performance straight up, was the Tiger Rally Pro 900. It DEF looks better imo too LOL.
The ergonomics for a big, tall person (i look anorexic under 190lb) look pretty extraordinary. And god i love the Ducati 'bucket o bots' sound
25:21 that was absolutely fun! Great office entrance!! thanks! great review! haha😄
Amazing review. Love the high front fender option now, looks better OEM just gets caked with mud here.
Was considering it but put deposit down on new Norden expedition.
Love the Ducati too!
Thanks for the content.
Noooo, the jumps gone ⛰️
If you build another one, I hope it's exactly the same, so you can still contemplate riding roads bikes off it
I love these video, but I would love see a daily rider but for apparel.
I personally would much rather own the Multistrada V2S. Slighty lower seat height (i am 1.79 so about 5.10/5.11), a more road orientated tyre size, electronically adjustable suspension and subjectively better looks imo. I reckon most owners will mostly ride it on the road probably not enough offroad (or hard enough) to really need the different rim/tyre size for the extra offroad abilities.
I bought the Multi, it’s a better package on the road.
Best entertaining reviews on bikes. Keep them coming.
These new middle weight bikes are the way to go. There will always be expensive Halo bikes with all the whistles and high tech. But that filters down later to their other bikes this bike is beautiful. Ducati building some real winners. So much R&D behind Ducati as owned Audi/VW. Also owns Lambo, Porsche, Bugatti, and Bentley
Really good pov camera angel, makes it really immersive to watch.
This DesertX is probably a dream bike to many at the moment including me.
Thanks Zack for the video!
I rode it last week for a 2 hours
Great looking bike
It is tall and vibrates a lot
The air filter is under the tank and it has to be removed to replace it , on a off road bike?
I don't think is convenient for me
Price is high for a medium size adv bike.
Come to think of it: it seems like the Multistrada 900S and the Scrambler Desert Sled had a baby and this was the result!
Please comment on the quick shifter. Especially in the lower gears.
A very nice looking motorcycle. Love it.
Never change Zach
I have a 2013 gs650 sertao and this bike looks very similar. It has a smaller engine but is also only 425lbs.
Hopefully you guys can review the new suzuki vstrom 1050 DE
Hey Zack, just wanted to say that you should stop telling us your height when it comes to talking about the seat height of the bike and flat footing and switch to your inseam because that paints a better picture for use since your height doesn't always tell the whole story about your leg length as some people can be tall because of their torso rather than legs.
Zack, you should do a Norden review. Please and thank you.
I've never seen a logo just appear on a wall like that. Michelin's tech is either that good or RevZilla have literal wizards on their team. Kinda freaky but I still wish to see something like this in real life one day
I would like to see you review the new Monster SP
Zach, take a look at the R1250R as a DR. I commute on a ‘15 R1200R (same bike) and feel it is perfect. I’d love to hear what you think. Get one with ESA and all the goodies too.
Haven't felt vibration on the test bike (it had the crashbars).
Had a DesertX on hold at my local dealer but didn’t want to wait all Summer to get the bike, and longer for all the overpriced accessories I wanted for the bike.
Cancelled the Duc and bought the 2023 Tiger 1200 Rally Explorer.
I know you liked that bike at the press junket, but is a Daily Rider test coming?
Thanks Zach, and I think of you and Ari every time I visit the Denver RevZilla store (your Dumb & Dumber mini bike’s in their front window)!
LMAO "I don’t know enough about two meatballs if I’m being totally honest" 😂😂😂
As the owner of three Ducatis, I love them but I’m so tired of the constant repairs. You drop this kind of money you expect supreme. While they are supreme when they run they don’t run supreme as often as they should.
Yamaha needs to put a dash like this on the T7, that casio calculator looked dated before the T7 was even available
The latest T7 has an updated dash.
The 2023 Tenere 700 will have a TFT screen with connectivity
The most important question, though, is would it take you to Utqiagvik and back?
i wonder if the vibes stop or lessen after the bikes break in ?? i really feel like my husky 901 did smoth out a lot after 4k+ miles and a few oil changes
Whoa, you could get a T7 AND a holdover Yamaha Super Ten for that many clams!
Not sure the price comparo is fair. The standard model costs about $17k, which is spicy, but has all the mod cons. For perspective - the top line Suzuki Vstrom 1050 costs the same, and while I have full respect for Suzuki, it is the dad jeans of adv bikes.
Ducati rules!!! So much fun😊
Ducati should explore making the dash with a matted, anti glare finish. It might make it less contrasty but still, maybe better out n about