Ducati is taking a step into a very different direction into the world of Motocross with the 2026 Ducati Desmo. The 450 Desmo is Ducati’s first motocross bike to feature the desmodromic timing design that carries the Borgo Panigale racing DNA off-road.
The 449.6cc Desmo engine is said to deliver a maximum power of 63.5 hp at 9,400 rpm and maximum torque of 53.5 Nm at 9,400 rpm with the limiter set at 11,900 rpm, with the motor running at such high revs it means less gear shifting. The engine is a four-stroke, single-cylinder, chain driven four-valve DOHC with magnesium alternator, head and clutch cover.
Ducati’s choice of suspension is Showa and that has been Ducati’s choice for their road bikes for quite some time. Ducati says they trust in the extensive racing experience of Showa. Out front they have used a 49 mm USD fork that offers 310 mm of travel and the rear is fitted with a 16 mm shaft with 129 mm of travel which is mounted on the cast swingarm.
Stopping power – same as with the suspension Ducati has gone with another long-term partnership, Brembo. the bike is equipped with Brembo stoppers, a 4-piston front caliper biting down on a 260 mm Galfer single brake disc and a single piston rear caliper with a 240 mm Galfer brake disc.
The Desmo 450 has an aluminium frame and subframe that is composed of just 11 elements, roughly half the number used in the frames of other motocross bikes. The frame weighs in at just 8.96 kg. Ducati has decided to go with a perimeter frame with the least possible number of weld joints. They say that this is to achieve a combination of reliability, light weight and stiffness calibration. It also supplies the straightest possible intake ducts to increase engine performance.
Ducati has designed the Desmo to be compact to “Maximise rider freedom of movement and bike control.” The structures and frame has been designed to allow for quick and easy trackside maintenance.
As for rider assistance systems, the Desmo 450 has taken advantage of Ducati’s experience in developing electronics. The Desmo 450 comes standard with two Riding Modes and will also be able to create completely custom Riding Modes thanks to the Ducati X-Link app, the rider can adjust throttle response, Ducati Traction Control, Engine Brake Control and Launch Control.
Coming soon!
