Ducati has unveiled the second generation of its hardcore adventure machine, the Ducati DesertX, completely redesigned around the brand’s new 890cc V2 engine and a monocoque chassis. The new model aims to deliver stronger off-road performance. Press: Ducati ANZ. The DesertX marked Ducati’s entry into the serious off-road adventure category when it first appeared in production form in 2021, following the concept debut at EICMA 2019. With its distinctive rally-inspired design and 21-inch front wheel, the model quickly built a following among adventure riders seeking genuine off-road capability.

Now the Bologna manufacturer has taken that concept further with a comprehensive redesign shaped by racing and development experience gathered on demanding terrain around the world. Ducati cites events such as the Erzbergrodeo, the Rally of Albania, the Transanatolia rally and the 1,500-kilometre NORRA Mexican 1000 desert rally as key influences in refining the bike’s capabilities.At the heart of the new DesertX is Ducati’s latest 890cc V2 engine, described by the company as the lightest twin-cylinder engine with four valves per cylinder it has ever produced. Featuring IVT variable intake valve timing, the engine produces 110hp and 92Nm of torque, with Ducati noting that 70 per cent of peak torque is already available from 3,000rpm to deliver strong low-end response.

Gear ratios have been configured for the adventure role, with shorter lower gears for difficult terrain and a taller sixth gear aimed at improving comfort and efficiency during highway transfers. Service intervals are also generous, with valve clearance checks required every 45,000km and oil changes scheduled every 15,000km or two years.The new engine sits within a monocoque frame that uses the engine as a structural element while also functioning as the airbox, helping reduce overall size while increasing chassis rigidity. Ducati says the new layout improves handling and intuitive control while also making the air filter easier to access for cleaning after dusty off-road rides.

A rear trellis subframe retains a link to Ducati’s traditional design language while providing easier access to engine components. The aluminium swingarm has been developed specifically for the DesertX to provide the strength required for demanding off-road use.Suspension has also been upgraded, with a fully adjustable KYB 46mm upside-down fork offering 230mm of travel and a KYB rear monoshock delivering 220mm via a progressive Full-Floater linkage. Ducati says the system offers a softer initial response for comfort and traction while increasing support deeper into the stroke when riding off-road.

Braking is handled by Brembo M4.32 monobloc calipers gripping twin 305mm front discs, paired with a redesigned axial master cylinder for improved feel and modulation when riding on loose surfaces.The DesertX retains its rally-inspired wheel setup, with 21-inch front and 18-inch rear tubeless spoked wheels fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally Street tyres in 90/90-21 and 150/70-18 sizes. Ducati also notes that the bike carries triple homologation for various tyres within the Pirelli Scorpion range, allowing riders to tailor the bike for more road-focused or off-road-oriented use.

Ergonomics have been refined to improve both road riding and off-road control. The layout moves the footpegs rearward and positions the seat and handlebars forward, creating a more active riding position. A slimmer and lighter 18-litre polymer fuel tank improves rider mobility while placing fuel mass lower to reduce the centre of gravity.Crash-resistant tank pads provide protection during typical low-speed off-road falls, while textured side panels improve grip when standing on the pegs. The redesigned front mudguard sits higher to allow greater clearance for mud and debris during difficult off-road conditions.

Seat height is 880mm as standard, though Ducati offers a lowering solution that reduces this to 840mm with a different seat and suspension configuration.Electronics play a major role in the new DesertX. The bike features a latest-generation rider-assist package based around a six-axis inertial measurement unit that manages systems including Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control and Engine Brake Control.

Six riding modes are included: Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, plus Enduro and Rally modes developed specifically for off-road riding. Each system can be adjusted across multiple levels, allowing riders to tailor the bike’s behaviour depending on conditions or skill level.

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Cornering ABS offers four levels of intervention, with the first two designed specifically for off-road riding and the ability to disable the system completely when riding in Enduro or Rally modes.

A new Ducati Quick Shift 2.0 system delivers clutchless up- and downshifts without external sensors, reducing exposure to mud, dust and impacts during off-road use.

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Rider information is displayed on a new 5-inch TFT dashboard with 800 x 480 resolution. The screen offers three display layouts—Road, Road Pro and Rally—each designed to prioritise relevant information depending on the riding situation. Rally mode transforms the display into a navigation-style interface including tripmaster functions.

In keeping with the DesertX’s functional design philosophy, the bike’s styling remains minimalist and purposeful. The front end has been lowered by 20mm to create a more dynamic appearance, while new airflow ducts help improve thermal comfort for the rider.The tail section is deliberately minimal to allow the installation of accessories such as an auxiliary rear fuel tank, passenger grab handles or pannier frames. Ducati also offers a range of factory accessories including aluminium panniers, Mosko Moto soft luggage, radiator guards, larger windscreens and a Termignoni exhaust.

Connectivity options include compatibility with the Ducati Multimedia System for smartphone pairing and turn-by-turn navigation.

The new DesertX will arrive in European dealerships in April 2026, with distribution continuing to the United States in May and Australia and Japan from June. Ducati will also offer an A2 licence-compliant version limited to 35kW.

2026 Ducati DesertX – Key Specifications
Engine: 890cc V-twin, IVT variable intake timing
Power: 110hp @ 9000rpm
Torque: 92Nm @ 7000rpm
Wet Weight (no fuel): 209kg
Fuel Tank: 18L
Suspension (F): 46mm KYB USD fork, fully adjustable, 230mm travel
Suspension (R): KYB monoshock with progressive linkage, 220mm travel
Brakes (F): Brembo M4.32 calipers, twin 305mm discs
Wheels: 21in front / 18in rear tubeless spoked
Electronics: 6-axis IMU, Cornering ABS, Traction Control, Wheelie Control, Engine Brake Control, Quick Shift 2.0
Riding Modes: Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, Rally
Dash: 5in TFT display with three Info Modes

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