Ducati has officially taken the wraps off the second-gen DesertX. The brand says the new model has been redesigned from the ground up, drawing on extensive customer feedback and experience gained from multiple rally competitions.
- Powered by 890cc V2 engine producing 110hp and 92Nm
- Features monocoque frame that uses engine as structural element
- European deliveries begin April 2026
New Ducati DesertX: All you need to know
Latest model to be powered by the Ducati V2 engine
The new DesertX follows in the footsteps of several other models, including the Panigale V2 and Multistrada V2, by adopting the new 890cc Ducati V2 engine. Despite its slightly smaller displacement compared to the outgoing 937cc Testastretta unit, peak output remains unchanged at 110hp and 92Nm, with Ducati claiming that 70 percent of peak torque is available from as low as 3,000rpm. The gear ratios have been tailored specifically for the DesertX, with shorter first four gears and a longer sixth gear. The engine also acts as a structural element within the all-new monocoque frame.
Ducati has made notable revisions to the suspension setup as well. The fully adjustable KYB components include a USD fork offering 230mm of travel up front and a rear monoshock that now uses a unique full-floater linkage system, delivering 220mm of travel. Braking is handled by Brembo M4.32 monobloc calipers paired with new 305mm discs. The DesertX rides on a 21-inch tubeless spoked front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel, shod with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres.
Ergonomic changes include more rear-set footpegs, with the seat and handlebars repositioned slightly forward. The new 18-litre fuel tank is slimmer and lighter, and Ducati states that the fuel mass has been positioned lower to help reduce the bike’s centre of gravity. Seat height stands at 880mm, which can be lowered to 840mm with the optional low seat and suspension kit. At a claimed 209kg wet weight (without fuel), the new DesertX is 1kg lighter than its predecessor.
The DesertX comes equipped with a 6-axis IMU that manages cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, engine brake control, and a bi-directional quickshifter. Riders can choose from six riding modes: Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, and Rally. All information is displayed on a new 5-inch TFT screen.
The new Ducati DesertX will reach European dealerships in April 2026. While Ducati has not officially confirmed its India launch timeline, given that much of the brand’s global lineup is available here, we can expect it to arrive in our market.
