Ducati has officially unveiled the Desmo450 MX, marking its long-awaited debut into the world of motocross. This highly anticipated model is the first of its kind from the renowned Italian manufacturer and is the result of rigorous development and competitive testing, led by motocross legends Tony Cairoli and Alessandro Lupino.
At the heart of the Desmo450 MX lies a unique engineering marvel: it is the only bike in its category to feature a Desmodromic engine—a signature Ducati technology derived from its MotoGP and Superbike platforms. This high-revving, single-cylinder 449.6 cc engine offers an unmatched blend of torque, acceleration, and top-end performance, delivering 63.5 hp at 9,400 rpm and 53.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm.
Complementing this power is a lightweight aluminium perimeter frame weighing just 8.96 kg. Designed with minimal welds and composed of only 11 parts, the chassis combines Ducati’s racing heritage with cutting-edge ergonomics and durability, ensuring top-tier performance for both professional racers and passionate amateurs.
The Desmo450 MX sets a new benchmark in motocross electronics, becoming the first in its class to incorporate an advanced traction control system (Ducati Traction Control). This patent-pending system can analyze rear wheel slippage and riding dynamics in real time, adapting accordingly and even deactivating when performance calls for full engine output. It is supported by additional racing-derived features like Launch Control, Engine Brake Control, selectable Riding Modes, and a Quickshifter—all configurable via Ducati’s dedicated X-Link App.
This motocross debut is more than just a standalone model—it represents Ducati’s first step into a full range of specialist off-road motorcycles. To support this new venture, Ducati is investing in its dealer network by training a select number to specialize in motocross service and sales, ensuring that new Ducatisti entering the off-road segment receive the same premium experience the brand is known for.
Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, reflected on the significance of this move:
“Over the past 18 months, many have asked why Ducati is entering off-road racing. The answer is simple: we’re a healthy company ready to grow. We found a deep well of off-road passion within our own team, and we’re using our unmatched connection between racing and production to bring a truly special bike to the market.”
The Desmo450 MX has already made its mark in competition, with Lupino clinching the MX1 Italian Championship using the race prototype. Ducati’s intense involvement in real-world racing has allowed continuous refinements, ensuring that the production model benefits directly from track-proven insights.
In terms of cooling and durability, the bike also introduces rhomboid-shaped radiators, improving the cooling surface area by 6.5% over traditional solutions while maintaining compact dimensions. These innovations, combined with the premium Showa suspension system, Brembo brakes, and meticulously engineered geometry, create a high-performance machine that is as agile as it is robust.
To further support riders, Ducati has set competitive maintenance intervals: 45 hours for piston replacement and valve checks, and 90 hours for a full engine overhaul—among the best in class.
Additionally, Ducati is offering a complete range of accessories and performance upgrades via the Ducati Performance catalogue, including Factory-style components, Akrapovič exhaust options, and a full technical apparel collection developed with Drudi Performance, Alpinestars, and Arai.
The Ducati Desmo450 MX will hit select European dealerships in June 2025, followed by North America in July, and global availability shortly thereafter. Orders are already open through official Ducati retailers.
With the Desmo450 MX, Ducati boldly enters a new era, expanding its racing legacy into the dirt with a machine designed to excite, perform, and redefine what’s possible in the world of motocross.
