What is the 2026 Ducati DesertX V2?
The DesertX V2 is Ducati’s second-generation lightweight off-road motorcycle, built for professional off-road performance, designed to dominate rally stages while remaining accessible for everyday adventuring.
The Ducati DesertX 2nd Gen is built on the DNA of rally racing and customer feedback from the 1st Gen DesertX, launched way back in 2021. The 2nd Gen further improves on the 1st Gen platform, featuring a lighter chassis, advanced electronics, and a more powerful V2 engine.
What powers the 2026 DesertX?
A liquid-cooled 890cc V2 Granturismo engine powers the 2nd Generation of the Ducati DesertX. The 890cc V2 engine delivers 110 HP at 9,000 rpm and 92 Nm at 7,000 rpm, of which 70% of torque is available from 3,000 rpm for strong low-end grunt, essential for rally situations.
Paired to a six-speed gearbox, designed and tuned for maximising efficiency, with the first 4 gears stacked closely to tackle unprecedented obstacles thrown while offroading and a 6th gear elongated for maximising fuel efficiency and top speed on the highways.
How does the chassis and suspension stack up?
The Ducati DesertX features a unique aluminium monocoque designed specifically for the DesertX, which uses the engine as a structural member of the chassis and also acts as an airbox, for improved packaging and enhanced rigidity.
On the suspension side, the DesertX is equipped with a 48mm Kayaba USD fork (230mm travel) with independent hydraulic adjustment and a rear monoshock with full-floater linkage with 220mm suspension travel.
What are the brakes and wheels like?
Ducati DesertX comes equipped with Brembo M4.32 monobloc callipers with 305mm disc at the front and 265mm disc at the rear. Spoked wheels are 21-inch front/18-inch rear with tubed Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres, ready to take on the mixed terrain.
What electronics and riding aids does it offer?
The 2nd Gen DesertX features a 6-axis IMU, enabling cornering ABS with 4 levels, traction control, wheelie control and engine braking, which can be altered across six modes: Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, and Rally. Standard features include a bi-directional quickshifter, cruise control, and a horizontal 5-inch TFT display with three display modes: Road, Road Pro and Rally.
How are the ergonomics and design?
The DesertX features a design language that, according to Ducati, resonates with the “Form Follows Function” principle, ensuring clutter free and lightweight design offering maximum leverage comfort for off-roading escapades and highway touring.
Does Ducati offer additional accessories for the DesertX?
Yes, for Riders looking to further enhance their DesertX for versatility, comfort, or improved off-road performance can opt for Ducati Performance accessories, which includes range of performance accessories for the DesertX.
