Ducati DesertX vs CFMoto 800MT-ES
Specs side by side, plus our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
The Ducati DesertX and CFMoto 800MT-ES are among the most cross-shopped adventure bikes of 2026. The CFMoto 800MT-ES undercuts the Ducati DesertX by about $7,496, so value is squarely on the table. On paper the Ducati DesertX leads on power with 110 hp. Below we put them head to head on price, performance, weight and seat height, then give our verdict on which one is the smarter buy for the way you ride.
Our pickDucati
Ducati DesertX
CFMoto
CFMoto 800MT-ESThe verdict
The Ducati DesertX edges it overall at 8.3/10, but the CFMoto 800MT-ES wins on best value, so let how you ride decide.
Ducati DesertX
A2-legal, 110 hp.
Ducati DesertX
110 hp and 0.49 hp/kg, the strongest here.
CFMoto 800MT-ES
Our 8/10 at $10,499, the most bike per dollar.
Ducati DesertX
223 kg with an 875 mm seat, the easiest to throw around.
Ducati DesertX
Our top score in this matchup at 8.3/10.
Cyan marks the best figure in each row. Specs are the most-cited for the current model; verify before relying on them.
Still torn between them?
Answer a few questions and we'll rank every bike by how well it fits you.
Ducati DesertX vs CFMoto 800MT-ES: your questions answered
Which is faster, the Ducati DesertX or the CFMoto 800MT-ES?
The Ducati DesertX makes the most power at 110 hp and 92 Nm, giving it the edge on outright performance.
Which is cheaper, the Ducati DesertX or the CFMoto 800MT-ES?
The CFMoto 800MT-ES is the most affordable here with an MSRP around $10,499.
Which is lighter, the Ducati DesertX or the CFMoto 800MT-ES?
The Ducati DesertX is the lightest at 223 kg, which makes it the easiest to manage at low speed and in the bends.
Which is better for a beginner, the Ducati DesertX or the CFMoto 800MT-ES?
For a new rider we'd point to the Ducati DesertX: A2-legal, 110 hp and 223 kg make it the most approachable of the group.
