Ducati has unveiled the long-awaited Desmo450 MX motocrosser, and it's ready for production. The circuit-only bike weighs 104.8kg when empty, and has 63.5bhp of power at 9400rpm, as well as 39lb.ft of torque at 7500rpm.
Using a 450cc single-cylinder engine, a standard feature for motocross bikes, it features Ducati’s Desmodromic valve system, also found on their MotoGP and Superbike motorcycles. The intake valves are made of titanium, and the exhaust valves are made of steel, with a hollow stem filled with sodium to improve heat exchange and provide consistent performance.
The Desmo450 MX engine has a 96 x 62.1mm bore and stroke, and has a high rev limit. Because of this, it can more easily reach its 70% of torque at 4200rpm, making it easier to ride compared to other 450 motocross bikes. The bike is also fast, with Mattia Guadagnini, a Ducati factory rider, taking fourth place in the opening round of the 2025 Motocross World Championship in Argentina.
In the chassis, Ducati uses a twin-spar aluminum frame with minimal welding points, resulting in higher rigidity and lighter weight. Suspension is from Showa, with 49mm adjustable fork with 310mm travel, and fully adjustable rear shock absorber with 301mm travel.
The motorcycle is stopped by Brembo brakes, with a two-piston floating caliper at the front and single-piston caliper at the rear. There are Galfer brake discs with a 260mm diameter at the front and 240mm at the rear. The Ducati Traction Control (DTC) has four levels of intervention, as well as Launch Control and Engine Brake Control, which can be adjusted using the app.
The Desmo450 MX will be available in European dealerships from June 2025, priced at £11,245 in the UK. North American customers will have to wait until July, with other countries to follow.
