First look at the second-generation Ducati DesertX, the “travel enduro” adventure bike with Antoine Meo on the R&D and housing a new 890cc V2 engine in an updated chassis with revised ergonomics to deliver more power, better off-road control and less weight for 2026.

Ducati’s DesertX marked the Italian manufacturer’s genuine entry into the world of off-road. Genuine not just because of the all-important 21-inch front wheel, a sump plate and some handguards, but because it was actually capable off-road and a pleasure to ride. It was also something of a pre-cursor to the motocross and enduro models which have followed.

And that is not forgetting the DesertX Rally edition which Enduro21 tested in Morocco: Tested: Ducati DesertX Rally – all Adventure bikes should be like this

Presented in 2019, the DesertX went into production in 2021 and helped forge the new wave of “maxi-enduro” and adventure bikes which had the road and travel presence but also helped scratch the itch for riders who want decent off-road performance.

The fact multiple enduro world champion Antoine Meo has been putting the bike in among it at events like Erzbergrodeo and Bassella Race have only helped its reputation.

DesertX Gen 2 – created to improve off-road performance

The second generation of DesertX arrives as result of e”xtensive feedback and experience gained over years of development and competition on the most challenging terrain, including the Erzbergrodeo, the Rally of Albania, the Transanatolia and the 1,500 kilometres of desert in the NORRA Mexican 1000 Rally”, Ducati say.

They continue: “the new DesertX was created with the specific aim to further improve off-road performance without sacrificing the riding pleasure typical of Ducati motorcycles.” And that sounds good to us.

New 890cc V2 engine

The 890cc V2 is Ducati’s lightest twin-cylinder with four valves per cylinder and features IVT variable intake timing. Output is 110hp with 92Nm of torque, delivering 70% of peak torque from just 3000rpm for strong drive out of corners.

Gear ratios are tailored for adventure use: shorter first to fourth gears for technical terrain, longer sixth for motorway comfort and economy. Service intervals are class-leading at 15,000km oil changes and 45,000km valve clearance checks.

Monocoque chassis and updated suspension

The monocoque frame uses the engine as a stressed member and integrates the airbox, increasing rigidity and centralising mass. The rear subframe is a steel trellis design for strength and easier maintenance, paired with a dedicated aluminium swingarm.

Brakes are Brembo M4.32 monobloc calipers with new 305mm discs, revised pads and an axial master cylinder for improved feel off-road. The system allows fitment of a high front mudguard without extra kits.

Suspension sees major updates

A new Kayaba fork offers smoother action and independent hydraulic adjustment in each leg. At the rear, progressive linkage improves comfort and control off-road. Wheels remain 21-inch front and 18-inch rear tubeless spoked rims, fitted as standard with Pirelli Scorpion Rally Street tyres (90/90-21, 150/70-18) and triple homologation for alternative options.

Revised ergonomics and fuel tank

The riding position shifts forward with pegs moved back and bars and seat repositioned for a more aggressive stance. Seat height is 880mm, reducible to 840mm with a lower seat and suspension kit.

A new 18-litre polymer tank is slimmer and lighter, with integrated crash protection. Fuel mass sits lower to reduce centre of gravity and improve handling. The front mudguard is raised for better mud clearance, and redesigned side panels improve grip when standing.

Electronics and rider aids

A six-axis IMU manages Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Wheelie Control (DWC) and Engine Brake Control (EBC), all adjustable. Six Riding Modes — Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro and Rally — tailor throttle response and electronic intervention.

Cornering ABS has four levels: 1 and 2 optimised for off-road, 3 and 4 for road use. ABS can be disabled in Enduro and Rally modes.

A new 5-inch TFT (800x480 resolution) features three display layouts — Road, Road Pro and Rally — with day/night switching and integrated tripmaster in Rally mode. Two USB ports are standard. Ducati Quick Shift 2.0 now runs without external sensors for greater durability in mud and dust.

Design and accessories

Styling is sharper and more functional, with a 20mm lower front end and improved airflow management. The minimalist tail accepts accessories including an 8-litre auxiliary rear tank.

Ducati Performance accessories include radiator guards, bull bar, touring screen, aluminium panniers, soft luggage developed with Mosko Moto, Ducati Multimedia System with Turn-by-Turn navigation, and a Termignoni-approved silencer.

Availability

The new DesertX arrives in Europe in April 2026, the USA in May, and Australia and Japan in June. An A2-compliant 35kW version is available.

In the UK, the DesertX V2 launches at £14,995 for orders placed before 30 June 2026.

More information: www.ducati.com