Ducati DesertX 2026 - New Generation Unveiled with 890 V2 Engine

With the first DesertX, Ducati entered the segment of serious offroad adventure enduros. The 21-inch front wheel clearly indicated from the start that off-road capability was the main focus.

The new Ducati DesertX 2026 is the result of years of development and rigorous testing on challenging terrains, including events like the Erzbergrodeo. The goal was to further enhance off-road performance while maintaining the distinctive Ducati riding pleasure on the road. The motorcycle has been completely redesigned and consistently built around the new Ducati V2 engine.

At the heart of the Ducati DesertX is the new 890 cc V2 engine. This unit features the IVT system with variable intake timing, ensuring consistent power delivery and responsive throttle across the rev range, as our experience confirms. Ducati claims it's the lightest twin-cylinder with four valves per cylinder they have produced to date. Therefore, it's surprising that the weight of the DesertX 2026, as stated by Ducati, is only 209kg without fuel—just 1 kg less than its predecessor.

The engine delivers 110 hp and a peak torque of 92 Nm. Seventy percent of the maximum torque is available at just 3,000 rpm, providing a strong curve in the low to mid-range, which is crucial for controllable thrust in technical off-road conditions.

The gear ratios are clearly tailored for purpose. The first four gears are shorter to precisely tackle obstacles. The sixth gear is longer to reduce RPM and fuel consumption on fast stretches. Maintenance intervals are set at 45,000 kilometers for valve clearance checks and 15,000 kilometers or every two years for oil changes.

The chassis of the Ducati DesertX is based on a monocoque frame that uses the engine as a load-bearing element and also serves as the airbox. This design ensures a compact structure and high rigidity. The repositioned airbox makes the air filter more accessible, which is practical for off-road use. The front is 20 mm lower than its predecessor.

At the rear, a trellis frame is used, and the aluminum swingarm has been specifically developed for the DesertX, designed for durability.

At the front, a 46-millimeter Kayaba upside-down fork is employed. It's designed to respond sensitively, effectively absorb bumps, and offers separate hydraulic adjustment options on both legs. At the rear, a shock absorber with progressive linkage is used. This setup aims to enhance comfort and traction off-road. Ducati has designed the suspension to provide stability for beginners while offering experienced off-road riders ample reserves for a sporty ride.

The braking system is sourced from Brembo. At the front, M4.32 monoblock calipers work in tandem with new 305-millimeter discs. An axially operated brake master cylinder with a newly designed lever aims to enhance modulation off-road while providing adequate braking on the road.

The new braking system also allows for the installation of a high front fender without additional kits, ensuring the DesertX remains functional even in mud and loose terrain.

The ergonomics are clearly off-road oriented. A wide handlebar, narrow knee area silhouette, and a newly defined ergonomic triangle with more rearward footpegs ensure an active riding position. The seat and handlebars are positioned further forward, allowing for increased pressure on the front wheel.

The 18-liter polymer tank is designed to be slimmer and lighter. The fuel volume is positioned low, lowering the center of gravity and improving handling. Protective pads on the tank enhance resistance in case of falls in off-road conditions.

The seat height is 880 millimeters. It can be reduced to 840 millimeters with a lower seat and an appropriate suspension kit.

The Ducati DesertX features an electronics package based on a 6-axis inertial platform. This system captures roll, pitch, and yaw movements in real-time, controlling cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control, and Engine Brake Control.

Six riding modes are available: Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, and Rally. Each mode is specifically tuned and can be individually customized. The cornering ABS operates with four levels and can be deactivated in the Enduro and Rally modes.

The Ducati Quick Shift 2.0 operates without external sensors, making it less susceptible to dirt and mechanical influences.

The display is provided by a new 5-inch TFT screen with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels—now in landscape rather than the portrait format of its predecessor, which may offer less rally flair. Three info modes—Road, Road Pro, and Rally—highlight relevant information depending on the usage. Control is via a new joystick. In Rally mode, the display is enhanced with a tripmaster function. Two USB ports are standard.

The Ducati DesertX rides on a 21-inch tubeless spoked wheel at the front and an 18-inch wheel at the rear. Standard tires are Pirelli Scorpion Rally Street, sized 90/90 at the front and 150/70 at the rear. Triple homologation allows for alternative tire options.

The Ducati Performance program offers a wide range of accessories. These include a rear auxiliary tank with an additional eight liters of capacity, aluminum panniers with special mounts, a soft bag kit in collaboration with Mosko Moto, and protective components like radiator guards and crash bars. Electronic upgrades such as the Ducati Multimedia System and turn-by-turn navigation are also available. For sport-oriented riders, there's an approved Termignoni exhaust with titanium sleeves and carbon end caps.

The Ducati DesertX 2026 will arrive in Europe in April 2026. A version limited to 35 kW will be available for A2 license holders.

The model is available in the color Matt Star White Silk.

How much power does the Ducati DesertX 2026 have?
The Ducati DesertX 2026 delivers 110 hp and produces a maximum torque of 92 Nm.

What is the displacement of the Ducati DesertX 2026?
The V2 engine of the Ducati DesertX 2026 has a displacement of 890 cc.

What is the seat height of the Ducati DesertX 2026?
The seat height is 880 mm and can be reduced to 840 mm.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the Ducati DesertX 2026?
The main tank holds 18 liters, with an optional additional 8-liter rear tank available.

What are the maintenance intervals for the Ducati DesertX 2026?
Valve clearance checks are required every 45,000 km, and oil changes every 15,000 km or two years.

What riding modes does the Ducati DesertX 2026 offer?
Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, and Rally are available as standard.

What are the wheel sizes on the Ducati DesertX 2026?
21 inches at the front, 18 inches at the rear.

Is the Ducati DesertX 2026 A2 compliant?
Yes, there is a version limited to 35 kW available.

What display is installed?
A 5-inch TFT display with 800 x 480 pixels and three info modes.

When will the Ducati DesertX 2026 be available?
The market launch in Europe is set for April 2026.