Ducati Desmo450 MX

Ducati is making history with its first-ever motocross bike, the Ducati Desmo450 MX. Drawing on MotoGP-inspired technology, this advanced off-road machine is poised to revolutionize the motocross landscape for professionals and recreational riders alike. From a high-performance single-cylinder engine and lightweight aluminum perimeter frame to a next-generation electronics suite, the Ducati Desmo450 MX delivers a blend of power, precision, and reliability that few competitors can match.

Ducati Desmo450 MX Performance

Central to the Ducati Desmo450 MX is its 449.6 cc single-cylinder Desmodromic engine, generating an impressive 63.5 horsepower at 9,400 rpm and 53.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm. Thanks to trademark Desmodromic valve distribution—featuring 40 mm titanium intake valves and 33 mm sodium-filled steel exhaust valves—riders gain access to 70% of peak torque by just 4,200 rpm. This wider torque curve makes the bike less fatiguing to handle than a conventional 450, while maintenance intervals remain rider-friendly at 45 hours for piston replacements and valve clearance checks, and 90 hours for a total engine overhaul.

Supporting the Ducati Desmo450 MX’s performance is a 231-pound wet-weight design, anchored by a minimalistic 19-pound aluminum perimeter frame. Built from only 11 parts for optimal rigidity, this frame lends exceptional maneuverability in competitive or recreational settings. A fully adjustable Showa suspension system with Kashima-coated 49 mm inverted forks provides 310 mm of travel, while the rear mono-shock boasts 301 mm of wheel travel. Coupled with Brembo brakes and Galfer discs (260 mm front, 240 mm rear), the Desmo450 MX ensures precise stopping power under extreme conditions. Further elevating the build are unique rhomboidal radiators, which improve cooling efficiency by 6.5%.

Ducati Desmo450 MX Electronics

Raising the bar in motocross technology, the Ducati Desmo450 MX comes loaded with Ducati Traction Control (DTC). This innovative system measures real-time rear-wheel slip and suspends its intervention during jumps or rapid bursts of acceleration, seamlessly reactivating when needed. The Desmo450 MX also includes Launch Control, Engine Brake Control, and a quick-shifter—each fine-tuned through the optional X-Link app. These advanced electronic aids allow riders to adapt the bike’s behavior for specific tracks or riding styles, underscoring Ducati’s commitment to race-oriented, user-friendly design.

Ducati Desmo450 MX Availability and Customization

The Ducati Desmo450 MX is slated for a European release in June 2025, followed by a North American debut in July, and a worldwide rollout thereafter. Priced at an MSRP of $11,495, this motocross contender comes in the signature Ducati Red finish. Riders can tailor their bike with official Ducati Performance accessories, including Akrapovič exhaust systems, Brembo Racing calipers, and other factory-spec components.

About The Author

Allan Lane

Philadelphia born and bred, Allan Lane is the Publisher and Editor in Chief of digital magazines. He launched his first publication, SportBikes Inc Magazine in 2010, followed by dosage MAGAZINE in 2019. Recently, Allan launched his third online publication, Club For Man. As a journalist, Allan covers fashion, lifestyle, culture, art, and motorcycles.

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