New Ducati DesertX image gallery

Ducati has completely reworked the DesertX from the ground up, and this second-gen model follows in the footsteps of several other bikes, including the Panigale V2 and Multistrada V2, by adopting the new 890cc Ducati V2 engine. Despite its slightly smaller displacement compared to the outgoing 937cc Testastretta unit, peak output remains unchanged at 110 hp and 92 Nm, with Ducati claiming 70% of that torque available from as low as 3,000rpm. This lighter engine has helped other models shed a notable amount of weight, but at 209kg (wet, without fuel), the new DesertX is only 1kg lighter than its predecessor.

The new DesertX is built around a monocoque frame that uses the engine as a stressed member. Suspension is fully adjustable, with a USD fork offering 230 mm of travel up front and a rear monoshock, which now features a unique full-floater linkage system, offering 220 mm of travel. The bike rides on 21-inch tubeless spoked wheels at the front and an 18-inch rear, wrapped in Pirelli Scorpion Rally Street tyres.

On the electronics front, the DesertX features a six-axis IMU enabling cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, engine brake control, and a bi-directional quickshifter. These systems are managed through six riding modes and accessed via a new 5-inch TFT dashboard.