Ducati, known for its prowess in the world of sport and street motorcycles, has ventured into a new segment with the world premiere of the Desmo450 MX at Campioni in Pista in Madonna di Campiglio. This off-road motocross bike represents a clean-sheet approach by a team of 20 Ducati engineers, showcasing the brand’s commitment to exploring uncharted territories.
Philosophy and Goals:
The philosophy behind the Desmo450 MX involves creating a unique machine that aligns with Ducati’s DNA, deviating from the existing designs in the off-road segment. The goal is to offer a lightweight and high-performing bike, specifically targeting young, passionate Ducati enthusiasts.
Chassis and Engine:
The chassis design presented a challenge in choosing between steel and aluminum, with the engineers opting for an aluminum configuration that strikes a balance between lightness and stiffness. The heart of the MX bike lies in its Desmodromic valve actuation, a signature Ducati technology. Despite the perceived complexity of the Desmo system, the racing engine aims to combine the advantages of Desmodromic valve actuation with the quality and durability of a street-legal engine.
From Racing to Streetbikes and Vice Versa:
Ducati emphasizes the close connection between Ducati Corse and Ducati production, enabling the exchange of information between the two departments. Working with the Desmo system provides insights into the design and performance data of both MotoGP and production motorcycles.
The Timeline and Riders’ Feedback:
Internally named “21J,” the Desmo450 MX project commenced three years ago in 2021. The project involved collaboration with nine-time world champion Tony Cairoli, who joined Ducati in 2023. Cairoli’s vast experience and feedback are integral to the development of the MX bike.
The Racing Program:
The Desmo450 MX is set to participate in the Italian Motocross Pro Prestige MX1 Championship in 2024, with Alessandro Lupino as the rider. The primary objective for the year is to further develop the model through racing, with the intention of joining the MXGP Championship in 2025. The bike is expected to be available for purchase in the second half of 2025.
Future Aspirations:
Ducati’s foray into off-road biking is a strategic move to reach a younger audience passionate about off-road machines. While focusing on the Italian and European markets initially, the brand has ambitions to enter the US market, particularly in Supercross. The prospect of Ducati participating in the Dakar Rally is also hinted at, underlining the brand’s commitment to credibility and excellence in diverse motorcycling domains.
