Ducati Desmo450 MX production commences at Borgo Panigale
Ducati’s first motocross bike, the Desmo450 MX, has commenced production at the Borgo Panigale factory. Developed and tested for power, lightness, and reliability, the Desmo450 MX, according to Ducati, is designed to enhance the riding skills of both professional and amateur riders, providing the confidence to push their limits. The bike’s Desmodromic engine, chassis, and innovative electronics aim to offer high performance with reduced physical effort.
The Desmo450 MX is the initial model in a planned range of specialized off-road motorcycles, intended to introduce the Borgo Panigale company to new segments, appeal to new motorcyclists, and expand the Ducatisti community.
Ducati CEO, Claudio Domenicali, stated that the company looked internally for unique aspects of its culture, identifying the close relationship between racing and production motorcycles as a key characteristic of Ducati. He also noted the significant number of off-road enthusiasts within the company.
These factors, he said, enabled the creation of the Desmo450 MX which is a user-friendly and high-performing bike for riders of all levels.
The 449.6 cc Ducati single-cylinder engine with Desmodromic distribution is presented as unique in the off-road category, allowing for greater utilization of each gear ratio due to its favorable power delivery, which combines low and medium-rev torque with significant extension. The lightweight aluminum frame is designed with a minimal number of welds to enhance solidity, lightness, and rigidity.
The Desmo450 MX also introduces a new element in its segment with electronics: it is described as the first motocross bike equipped with Traction Control capable of precisely determining rear wheel slippage and identifying riding phases where intervention should be limited to preserve performance.
The Ducati Performance catalogue offers various parts to bring the Desmo450 MX closer to the bikes ridden in the MXGP World Championship by Jeremy Seewer and Mattia Guadagnini. These include Factory components machined from solid aluminum (wheel hubs, triple clamps), AkrapoviÄ titanium slip-on silencer, and Brembo Racing brake calipers. The range of accessories will be expanded over time.
To complete the Factory look, the Ducati Performance catalogue also features a technical collection created in collaboration with Drudi Performance, including an Alpinestars jersey/pants/gloves/boots set, an Arai helmet, a wind vest, a softshell jacket, and a rain jacket.
The Desmo450 MX is scheduled to arrive at selected European dealerships starting in June 2025, followed by North America in July, and then the rest of the world. PH pricing and availability will be announced soon by Ducati Philippines.
