Ducati has officially entered the motocross world with the launch of the Desmo450 MX, marking a historic moment for the Italian brand. Known for its dominance in MotoGP and Superbike, Ducati is now taking its racing expertise off-road, bringing cutting-edge technology and innovation to motocross riders worldwide.
A Racing-Inspired Machine
The Desmo450 MX embodies Ducati’s philosophy of developing bikes through competition before bringing them to the public. By analysing segment trends, competitor offerings, and FIM and AMA technical regulations, Ducati has crafted a lightweight and high-performance motocross machine featuring a Desmodromic distribution engine and state-of-the-art electronics—a first in the class.
Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, explains the move into off-road racing:
“Ducati is a healthy company that generates resources, therefore has the opportunity to grow by opening up to a new segment of enthusiasts. Our closeness between the world of racing and production bikes defines our brand, and with so many off-road enthusiasts in our team, we saw an opportunity to create a motocross bike that blends high performance with ease of use.”
Innovative Powerplant and Electronics
At the heart of the Desmo450 MX lies a 449.6cc single-cylinder engine with Desmodromic valve control, an innovation borrowed from Ducati’s MotoGP and Superbike experience. This system allows for higher revs and stronger power delivery, particularly in the critical moments of a race, such as explosive starts and tight cornering.
- Maximum Power: 63.5 hp at 9,400 rpm
- Maximum Torque: 53.5 Nm at 7,500 rpm
- Rev Limiter: 11,900 rpm (a new benchmark in the 450cc class)
Thanks to its torque-rich powerband, the Desmo450 MX delivers 70% of maximum torque at just 4,200 rpm, ensuring superior traction and acceleration. Riders can push harder with less fatigue, making it an attractive option for both professional and amateur riders.
Ducati’s expertise in electronic systems shines through with the Desmo450 MX being the first motocross bike in the world to feature a patented Traction Control system. This advanced system fine-tunes rear-wheel slip based on real-time conditions and can be deactivated instantly when needed. Additional electronics include:
- Launch Control for explosive race starts
- Engine Brake Control for optimised deceleration
- Quickshifter for seamless gear changes
- Two configurable Riding Modes via the Ducati X-Link App
Precision-Engineered Chassis and Suspension
The Desmo450 MX’s aluminium perimeter frame is designed for optimal strength, lightness, and rigidity. At just 8.96 kg, the frame is crafted with only 11 pieces, significantly fewer than competitors, resulting in better durability and performance. The entire bike weighs only 104.8 kg (without fuel), making it one of the lightest in its class.
Ducati has partnered with Showa for the suspension setup, ensuring superior ride quality and adjustability. The package includes:
- 49mm Showa inverted front forks (310mm travel, Kashima Coating)
- Fully adjustable Showa rear shock (301mm travel)
- Aluminium swingarm with forged linkage for progressive suspension response
For braking, Ducati has teamed up with Brembo to deliver a high-performance system featuring:
- Front: Two-piston floating caliper with a 260mm Galfer disc
- Rear: Single-piston caliper with a 240mm Galfer disc
Cooling System and Reliability
The rhomboid-shaped radiators on the Desmo450 MX offer a 6.5% larger cooling surface compared to traditional designs. This ensures efficient engine cooling even in extreme racing conditions. Ducati’s rigorous testing in 2024 MX1 Italian Championship races confirmed the durability and reliability of this system.
Additionally, the maintenance intervals set a new standard in the motocross segment:
- Piston replacement: Every 45 hours
- Valve clearance check: Every 45 hours
- Full engine overhaul: Every 90 hours
Factory Racing DNA in a Production Model
Ducati’s factory racing success has already been evident in the Desmo450 MX’s early outings, with Alessandro Lupino winning the MX1 Italian Championship. Riders Jeremy Seewer and Mattia Guadagnini also claimed holeshot victories in their debut MXGP race in Argentina using a near-stock Desmo450 MX with an Akrapovič exhaust from the Ducati Performance catalogue.
For riders looking to replicate this factory setup, Ducati offers an array of Performance Parts, including:
- Factory-spec wheel hubs, triple clamps, and brake calipers
- Akrapovič titanium slip-on exhaust
- Drudi Performance-designed riding gear by Alpinestars, Arai, and Spidi
Availability and Global Rollout
The Desmo450 MX will arrive at selected European dealerships in June 2025, followed by North America in July, and a global rollout thereafter.
For more info on the Desmo 450 MX visit www.ducati.com
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