Ducati has officially entered the off-road segment with the Desmo450 MX, its first motocross bike. Developed with the expertise of Tony Cairoli and Alessandro Lupino, the Desmo450 MX brings racing DNA straight from MotoGP and Superbike into the dirt world.
At its heart lies a 449.6cc single-cylinder engine with Desmodromic distribution, making it the only motocross bike in its class with this setup. The result? A rev-happy motor delivering 63.5 hp and 53.5 Nm of torque, paired with class-leading over-rev and a strong low-end punch.
Built around a lightweight aluminium perimeter frame, the bike tips the scales at just 104.8 kg (dry) and features Showa suspension, Brembo brakes, and a new Ducati Traction Control system, marking a segment first. The DTC system offers four levels of adjustability and works seamlessly with launch control and engine brake control.
Born on the track and tested in Italy’s MX Championship, the Desmo450 MX will be available in Europe from June 2025, with a North American release in July, followed by a global rollout. Ducati also offers a full range of performance parts and gear via its Ducati Performance catalogue for those looking to go full factory-spec.
This marks Ducati’s bold leap into off-road territory, aiming to expand its community with a bike that’s built for podiums – yet friendly enough for amateurs.
