Desertx

The Ducati DesertX is the brand's first genuinely off-road biased adventure bike, launched in 2022. It uses the 937 cc Testastretta 11-degree L-twin shared with the Multistrada V2 and Monster, here tuned for around 110 hp and 92 Nm with a flat torque curve. The chassis is the standout: a 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear, 230 mm of front travel and 220 mm at the back, fully adjustable KYB suspension, 250 mm of ground clearance and an optional Akrapovič exhaust. Twin round headlights and the high beak deliberately echo the 1980s Cagiva Elefant Paris-Dakar bikes. From 2024 a more off-road focused DesertX Rally has joined the line-up with Ohlins suspension and reinforced bashplates. The model remains in production.

This is the Ducati for buyers who actually want to leave the tarmac: narrow between the knees, comfortable ergonomics seated or standing, an up-and-down quickshifter and a comprehensive set of riding modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, Rally) with switchable ABS and traction control. On the motorway it cruises comfortably, but its real territory is gravel and light enduro trails. Direct rivals include the KTM 890 Adventure R, BMW F 900 GS and Aprilia Tuareg 660. Note the tall seat (875/890 mm, optional low seat available) and plan for typical Ducati maintenance.