New Ducati DesertX journey bike enhances off-road enjoyable

Six years after Ducati launched the first-gen DesertX, the corporate has given its beloved journey motorbike a serious overhaul, with a view to enhancing off-road efficiency. From the small print and specs we have seen, there are each considerate updates and probably controversial trade-offs for followers of the outgoing mannequin – but it surely’s mentioned to all be in service of creating the DesertX extra gratifying for riders of all ability ranges.

The big-ticket merchandise on the checklist is the brand new 890cc V2 twin-cylinder engine that is practically 13 lb (5.8kg) lighter than the earlier mill – and it is the lightest V-twin the corporate’s ever made. This one will get variable consumption valve timing for extra available energy and higher torque at low speeds.

It really makes the identical 67 lb.ft (92 Nm) of torque because the outdated engine, however you may entry 70% of that down low at simply 3,000 RPM, which ought to make it simpler to methodically sort out tough terrain. Ducati notes that the usage of normal spring-actuated valves on this design permits for 28,000 miles (45,000 km) between journeys to the service station.

The new DesertX seemingly will not be sooner than its predecessor: it is simply a few kilos lighter general at 461 lb (209 kg), and it makes the identical 110 hp because the V1 mannequin. Its 4.75-gallon (18-liter) polymer gasoline tank is smaller too, bringing the vary down from as estimated 233 miles (375 km) to 207 miles (333 km).

That mentioned, the revised tank lowers the bike’s heart of gravity to make for improved dealing with and maneuverability. There’s additionally an all-new aluminum monocoque chassis instead of the earlier metal trellis body. It permits simpler entry to the engine and air filter, which riders will recognize when it is time to perform some upkeep out within the wilderness.

While the 2026 mannequin appears pretty much like the first-gen DesertX, readers with a eager eye will discover the up to date twin headlamps, a decrease entrance finish, and extra trendy bodywork.

Ducati says it additionally presents higher ergonomics within the saddle, due to a slimmer gasoline tank that is simpler to grip, and a rider triangle that’ll provide you with extra steering management on rugged trails. It is tall too, with an ordinary seat peak of 880 mm (34.6 in). A suspension equipment and seat choices can decrease that considerably, should you desire.

Gone is the rally-style vertically-oriented sprint. In its place is a 5-inch horizontal colour TFT that leaves room above it on your cellphone or GPS machine. You can swap between show modes with totally different information layouts for highway driving and navigating off the crushed observe.

You’ll get the same old digital trimmings that you just’d count on on a Ducati: a six-axis IMU that informs cornering ABS, traction and wheelie management, and 6 driving modes. There’s additionally an up to date quickshifter that guarantees extra exact gear adjustments, and has its sensors tucked inside so it is much less inclined to break from the weather.

The DesertX will get tubeless spoked wheels – 21 inch in entrance, 18 inch on the rear. Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires come normal, and you may select from different homologated choices too. The new 305-mm discs and Brembo braking system promise higher lever really feel and modulation whenever you go off-road.

Lastly, let’s discuss suspension. The new KYB 46-mm forks are independently adjustable to fit your preferences, whereas the rear will get a KYB shock absorber with distant preload adjustment and a full floater progressive hyperlink. Ducati says the latter makes for “a softer response in the early part of the stroke and more sustained support when high forces come into play,” which suggests a snug journey throughout various kinds of terrain.

This new mannequin might be had for US$16,995; at that value level, it is pit in opposition to KTM’s 890 Adventure R and the Triumph Tiger 900 range. When you have bought high quality equipment on provide throughout all of them, it isn’t nearly one of the best deal, however which mannequin suits your driving model greatest – so you may actually need to take a look at journey the improbable choices on this section earlier than you make a selection.

Check out the 2026 DesertX on Ducati’s site.

Source: Ducati