Ducati has updated its Desmo450 MX and Desmo450 MX Factory motocross bikes for the 2027 model year.
What is the 2027 Ducati Desmo450 MX?
The Ducati Desmo450 MX is Borgo Panigale’s first production motocross motorcycle, first revealed in November 2023. It’s based on a 446 single-cylinder platform engineered for closed motocross tracks.
For 2027, Ducati has introduced subtle mechanical tweaks instead of a complete mechanical refresh, based on the feedback received from racing and customers.
What is new on the 2027 Desmo450 MX?
The 2027 Ducati Desmo450 MX receives a set of race-developed refinements rather than a new engine or chassis. The changes include shorter gearing, which Ducati says improves torque delivery to the rear wheel, and it now comes shod in new Pirelli Scorpion MX32 Mid-Soft tyres front and rear.
Ducati has redesigned the gearshift and rear brake pedal contact tips for better rider feel and control. Ducati engineers have revised several durability-related components, including the starter-motor gear coupling, water-pump oil seal, exhaust manifold near the silencer, chain-guide support, fork slider guards and front engine-to-frame mounting brackets, for improved reliability.
Ducati offers an optional Wi-Fi module that enables predictive maintenance, analysing real-world usage and adjusting engine-service intervals accordingly.
What type of engine does it use?
The Ducati Desmo450 MX uses a 449.6cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four-stroke single-cylinder engine with Ducati’s Desmodromic valve timing. The engine produces 63.5 hp at 9,400 rpm and 53.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm, paired to a five-speed constant mesh gearbox. The engine revs all the way up to 11,900 rpm.
What electronics does the Desmo450 MX offer?
The 2027 Ducati Desmo450 MX offers a motocross-focused electronics package built around Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Power Launch, Engine Brake Control and an up-only Quick Shift system. These systems are designed to help riders manage wheelspin, starts, engine braking and gear changes on loose, challenging motocross surfaces.
What is different about the Desmo450 MX Factory? What new updates does it feature?
The Desmo450 MX Factory is Ducati’s race-focused version of the standard Desmo450 MX. For 2027, it receives every update introduced on the standard bike, while adding a titanium Akrapovič exhaust, which saves up to 1.7 kg and works with dedicated engine mapping, upgraded Showa suspension, billet-machined triple clamps, a Holeshot device and extra off-road protection.
