Ducati is thrilled: Production of the Desmo450 MX Motocross has started!

Ducati is thrilled: Production of the Desmo450 MX Motocross has started!

On May 27, 2025, Ducati started production of the Desmo450 MX, its first motocross machine, at the Borgo Panigale factory. The first session rolled off the assembly line immediately after Jeremy Seewer's second World Championship podium finish at the French Grand Prix. The celebrations included prominent guests such as Tony Cairoli and Alessandro Lupino, who took Ducati's first victory and national title in motocross. This new machine is not only a technical masterpiece, but also a significant step for Ducati to establish the brand in the off-road sector and open up new markets.

The Desmo450 MX has been specifically designed and tested for racing to offer performance, lightness and reliability to both professionals and amateurs. The machine combines high performance with low effort and is equipped with innovative electronics and a high-quality Desmo motor. Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali highlights the close connection between racing and production motorcycles.

Technical details of the Desmo450 MX

The Desmo450 MX is the first motocross bike with desmodromic controls, based on Ducati's racing DNA and incorporating experience from MotoGP and WorldSBK. The 449.6 cm³ single-cylinder engine delivers 63.5 hp at 9,400 rpm and a maximum torque of 53.5 Nm at 7,500 rpm. This allows for a maximum speed of 11,900 rpm, improving acceleration and increasing performance. According to Dirtbikelover, desmodromic control reduces mechanical losses and allows for more extreme cam profiles. A cooling system with rhomboid radiators increases cooling performance by 6.5%.

The lightweight aluminum frame at just 8.96kg provides excellent stability and control. In addition, the Desmo450 MX is equipped with an adjustable handlebar that can be set in four positions to allow for individual adjustment. The Ducati's electronics include an adjustable traction control system and two different riding modes. A launch control with three intervention levels optimizes engine performance when starting. Prices for the Desmo450 MX start at $11,495.

A new chapter for Ducati in the off-road segment

The Desmo450 MX is the first model in a new range of off-road motorcycles that Ducati is planning to expand the Ducatisti community. The vehicle will be presented live next weekend as part of the MXGP race in Teutschenthal. In addition, test drives for motocross fans are planned at selected events from June 7th to 14th. Availability of the Desmo450 MX will be at select retailers in Europe and the US from July 2025 before being offered globally later.

With the introduction of this motocross machine, Ducati not only aims to gain a foothold in the competitive field, but also wants to promote the passion for off-road riding. With a comprehensive Ducati Performance catalog that includes specialty parts and an apparel collection in collaboration with Drudi Performance, the company equips both amateur riders and professionals for their off-road challenges.

By combining racing technology and series production, Ducati shows that it is ready to build a new foothold in the off-road segment and expand competition opportunities for all riders. This innovative development could be a significant turning point in the history of motorcycle manufacturing, comparable to other historical milestones in the industry such as those documented by Heise.