The Desmo450 MX: Ducati's first motocross machine
Step into the world of off‑road excitement with Ducati’s very first motocross offering, the Desmo450 MX. Unveiled at the Ducati World Premiere earlier this April, this trail‑blazer brings the marque’s racing pedigree from Borgo Panigale into the mud and mayhem of motocross. Trust us, it’s every bit as thrilling as it sounds.
At its heart lies a single‑cylinder Desmodromic engine of 449.6 cc, the only one of its kind in the MX450 category. Thanks to Ducati’s signature valve‑control system, the bike revs eagerly up to an astonishing 11,900 rpm, producing 63.5 hp at 9,400 rpm and 53.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm. Even more inviting is the torque curve: 70 per cent of peak torque is on tap as low as 4,200 rpm, making corner exits and Holeshot sprints smoother and less exhausting.
Ducati’s no‑compromise chassis is a lightweight aluminium twin‑spar frame weighing just 8.96 kg. Comprising of only 11 pieces, making it roughly half that of rivals, it balances rigidity and agility perfectly, while the 7.2 litre tank and a dry weight of 104.8 kg ensure nimble handling. Showa suspension includes fully adjustable 49 mm upside‑down forks (310 mm travel) with Kashima coating. Plus a 301 mm‑travel monoshock, along with Brembo brakes with Galfer discs (260 mm front, 240 mm rear).
Electronics are equally cutting‑edge. Ducati Traction Control monitors real wheel slip and adapts dynamically, yet automatically steps aside during jumps. Four DTC levels, plus Launch Control, Engine Brake Control and a quick‑shifter, are all configurable via Riding Modes in the X‑Link App. Professionals and weekend warriors alike will appreciate the ease of use and performance boost.
Whether ready to race or simply raise your off‑road game, the Desmo450 MX is Ducati’s triumphant leap into motocross.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 449.6 cc single‑cylinder Desmodromic
- Power: 63.5 hp @ 9,400 rpm; Torque: 53.5 Nm @ 7,500 rpm
- Frame: Aluminium twin‑spar (8.96 kg)
- Suspension: Showa 49 mm USD forks (310 mm); monoshock (301 mm)
- Brakes: Brembo calipers with Galfer discs (260 mm front; 240 mm rear)
- Weight (dry): 104.8 kg; Fuel capacity: 7.2-litre
- Electronics: Ducati Traction Control, Launch Control, Quickshifter, Engine Brake Control, two Power Modes, two Riding Modes
- Maintenance: Piston and valve check every 45 hours; full overhaul at 90 hours
Ducati at Vertu Motorcycles
For more Ducati models and information on servicing, joining our motorcycle club, or just more news on your favourite bikes, check out the Vertu Motorcycles site, or pop into your local dealership.