Step into the world of off-road excitement with Ducatis very first motocross offering, the Desmo450MX. Unveiled at the Ducati World Premiere earlier this April, this trail-blazer brings the marques racing pedigree from BorgoPanigale into the mud and mayhem of motocross. Trust us, its every bit as thrilling as it sounds.
At its heart lies a single-cylinder Desmodromic engine of 449.6cc, the only one of its kind in the MX450 category. Thanks to Ducatis signature valve-control system, the bike revs eagerly up to an astonishing 11,900rpm, producing 63.5hp at 9,400rpm and 53.5Nm of torque at 7,500rpm. Even more inviting is the torque curve: 70percent of peak torque is on tap as low as 4,200rpm, making corner exits and Holeshot sprints smoother and less exhausting.
Ducatis no-compromise chassis is a lightweight aluminium twin-spar frame weighing just 8.96kg. Comprising of only 11 pieces, making it roughly half that of rivals, it balances rigidity and agility perfectly, while the 7.2litre tank and a dry weight of 104.8kg ensure nimble handling. Showa suspension includes fully adjustable 49mm upside-down forks (310mm travel) with Kashima coating. Plus a 301mm-travel monoshock, along with Brembo brakes with Galfer discs (260mm front, 240mm 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 Desmo450MX is Ducatis triumphant leap into motocross.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 449.6cc single-cylinder Desmodromic
- Power: 63.5hp @ 9,400rpm; Torque: 53.5Nm @ 7,500rpm
- Frame: Aluminium twin-spar (8.96kg)
- Suspension: Showa 49mm USD forks (310mm); monoshock (301mm)
- Brakes: Brembo calipers with Galfer discs (260mm front; 240mm rear)
- Weight (dry): 104.8kg; 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 45hours; full overhaul at 90hours
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.