With the DesertX, Ducati has introduced an adventure bike designed to perfectly master even the most demanding off-road missions.
Designed for off-road riding, it is also equipped with a 21-inch front wheel and an 18-inch rear wheel, a tire size never before used by Ducati. Ducati describes the DesertX as a responsive and easy-to-ride motorcycle that feels comfortable on any track or asphalt.
Ergonomics for long rides off-road and on asphalt
When it comes to ergonomics, Ducati aims to provide a comfortable riding experience when riding off-road in a standing position and also when riding on the road. Maximum control and perfect handling was the aim of the development. Seat height is 875 mm, but can be adjusted with a lower seat or even a lowering kit – both offered as options.
A particularly narrow inner leg arch and immediate compression on touchdown are intended to provide good ground contact.
Chassis and suspension
The chassis layout consists of a newly developed steel trellis frame. The suspension elements are based on long spring travel. A 46 mm Kayaba upside-down fork operates at the front, offering a suspension travel of 230 mm. The shock absorber has a travel of 220 mm. Both are adjustable for compression, rebound and preload. The ground clearance of the DesertX is specified at 250 mm.
For the initial tires, the company opted for Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR in the dimensions 90/90-21 front and 150/70-18 rear. However, specific off-road and on-road tires will also be homologated.
Engine
Propulsion is provided by the liquid-cooled Testastretta 11° engine with 937 cc and desmodromic valve timing. It produces 110 PS at 9,250 rpm and 92 Nm at 6,500 rpm. The engine improvements from the Monster and Multistrada V2 are also already incorporated here, including the lightweight and compact 8-disc clutch and the gearbox, which features a bearing-mounted shift drum to reduce friction and improve smoothness when shifting gears.
The engine has been optimized for the best possible on-road and off-road performance. The transmission has been specially geared. First and second gears in particular are significantly shorter, while sixth gear is much longer.
Equipment
Braking is at the front with M50 monobloc 4-piston radial calipers from Brembo. The two brake discs have a diameter of 320 mm. The brake is actuated by an axial brake pump and an adjustable lever. At the rear, a Brembo two-piston floating caliper and a 265mm disc operate.
The fuel tank holds 21 liters. A second tank is offered as an option that can hold 8 liters and mounts in the rear.
Six riding and four power modes are available, including Rally or Enduro settings. Enduro reduces power and is intended to make off-road excursions easier for less experienced riders. Rally, on the other hand, offers full engine power and reduces electronic control so the rider is less regulated.
The different modes also affect the Engine Brake Control, Traction Control, Wheelie Control, Cornering ABS and Quickshifter (Up&Down).
ABS can be adjusted in 3 levels and deactivated via a dedicated button.
To provide clear information when driving while standing, the 5-inch TFT color display has been vertically oriented. The smartphone can also be paired with it. As standard, the driver can choose between the Standard and Rally displays.
LED technology is used for the lighting all around. The twin headlights are equipped with daytime running lights. The tail light features the Ducati Brake Light System, which activates a flashing tail light during sudden braking to warn following vehicles.
As an option, Ducati offers a wide range of performance accessories. The bags offered hold just under 120 liters of luggage volume, including the aluminum top case.
The dry weight is stated at 202 kg. The DesertX will be available at dealers from May 2022. An A2 version will also be offered.
Ducati DesertX
Colors
- Special paint in the color “Star White Silk
Main standard equipment
- Testastretta 11° engine with 937cc, 110 PS at 9,250 rpm and 92 Nm at 6,500 rpm*
- Exhaust system with one silencer
- Tubular steel frame with cast aluminum swingarm
- Fuel tank with 21 liters capacity
- Spoked rims with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires in sizes 90/90-21 front and 150/70 R18
- rear
- Fully adjustable 46 mm Kayaba suspension fork with 230 mm travel
- Fully adjustable Kayaba shock with 220 mm travel
- 6 customizable riding modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, Rally)
- 4 Power Modes with 3 power levels
- Bosch cornering ABS with 3 levels
- DTC with 8 levels (DTC)
- Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC)
- Engine Brake Control (EBC)
- 5″ TFT color display
- Ducati Brake Light
- Ducati Quick Shift Up & Down (DQS)
- Ducati Cruise Control
- Full LED lighting system
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