The all-new 2026 Ducati Desmo450 MX has officially broken cover in production form, signifying Ducati’s first entry into the motocross market. The bike combines decades of road racing expertise from the Borgo Panigale brand, in addition to valuable off-road development input from factory test riders, including MXGP legend Tony Cairoli.

Image: Supplied.

Designed to compete straight out of the crate, the Desmo450 MX is equipped with a race-proven Desmodromic engine, cutting-edge electronics, and an aluminum chassis crafted for agility and precision.

The Desmo system is a hallmark of Ducati engineering, using a unique valve control system where valves are both opened and closed mechanically, eliminating traditional valve springs. Originally developed for high-revving race bikes in the 1950s, it allows for more aggressive cam profiles, higher rpm limits, and improved valve control at top speed. It’s been a defining feature of Ducati’s success in MotoGP and WorldSBK, now brought to motocross with the Desmo450 MX.

Image: Supplied.

2026 Ducati Desmo450 MX technical highlights:
– 449.6cc single-cylinder Desmodromic engine
– 1.9 US gallon fuel tank
– Max power: 63.5hp at 9400 rpm
– Max torque: 53.5 Nm at 7500 rpm
– Redline at a category-leading 11,900 rpm
– Total weight 231lb (without fuel)
– Twin-spar, aluminum perimeter frame
– Cast aluminum swingarm with forged linkage
– Showa 49mm coil-spring forks, Kashima coated, 310mm travel
– Showa rear monoshock, 301mm travel
– Brembo front and rear brake calipers with Galfer discs
– Ducati Traction Control (DTC) with four intervention levels
– Launch control, quickshifter, and engine brake control
– Two power modes and two riding modes (adjustable via Ducati’s X-Link app)
– DID chain
– Takasago Excel wheels with Alpina spokes
– Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tires front and rear

The Desmo450 MX debuts a patented traction control system that can differentiate wheelspin from jumps and rider input, with automatic reactivation after manual override. Coupled with launch control, quickshifter, engine brake control, and adjustable riding modes, the Desmo450 MX is electronically the most advanced production motocross bike to date, according to Ducati.

Beneath the surface, the frame is built from only 11 elements – around half of what’s typical in the class – with casting techniques inspired by Ducati’s superbike program. The result is a minimalist chassis with race-tuned rigidity, excellent rider ergonomics, and efficient serviceability.

Ducati has equipped its motocross machine with a Showa fork and shock combination. Up front, the fully adjustable fork features 49mm forks with a Kashima coating for reduced friction and increased durability, offering 310mm of travel. At the rear, the fully adjustable shock with 301mm of travel.

In teaming up with its long-time braking partner Brembo to develop high-performance components for motocross, Ducati is continuing that successful collaboration. The set-up features a two-piston floating caliper up front and a single-piston caliper at the rear, paired with Galfer brake discs measuring 260mm at the front and 240mm at the rear.

Priced from $11,495 MSRP, the 2026 Ducati Desmo450 MX will be available starting this July in North America.