Ducati unveil the Desmo450 MX Factory, a new edition of its 450cc motocross bike that builds on the standard Desmo450 MX with reduced weight and a selection of high-spec components aimed squarely at race use.

The Desmo450 MX is already a motocross bike that impresses in the flesh, both in terms of finish and overall build quality. Now Ducati has taken that base platform and elevated it with a Factory version, set to be available through selected dealers in Europe and the United States.

One year after the debut of the Desmo450 MX, the Factory model is defined by its specification and attention to detail. Weighing 104 kg ready to ride without fuel, it features Showa suspension with Dark Kashima coating and titanium oxide superfinishing, a full Akrapovič titanium exhaust system and billet triple clamps as standard.

Desmo450 MX Factory key features:

The Desmo450 MX Factory is powered by a 449.6cc single-cylinder engine with Desmodromic valve timing, producing a claimed 63.5 hp at 9,400 rpm and 53.5 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm. The engine is housed in an aluminium twin-spar frame and fed by a 7.2-litre fuel tank.

Suspension comes from Showa, with fully adjustable 49 mm closed-cartridge forks offering 310 mm of travel, and a fully adjustable rear shock providing 301 mm of rear wheel travel. Both benefit from Dark Kashima coating and titanium oxide surface treatments to improve smoothness and durability, Ducati says.

Braking is handled by Brembo, with Galfer discs measuring 260 mm at the front and 240 mm at the rear. The bike rolls on Takasago Excel rims with Alpina spokes, fitted with Pirelli Scorpion MX32 Mid-Soft tyres.

Electronics include two Power Modes, two Riding Modes, Ducati Traction Control, Launch Control, Engine Brake Control and a Quickshifter, all configurable via the X-Link app thanks to the standard Wi-Fi module.

Maintenance intervals are set at 45 hours for piston replacement and valve clearance checks, with a full engine overhaul scheduled at 90 hours.

Desmo450 Factory specification in detail

A key upgrade on the Factory model is the complete Akrapovič titanium exhaust system, paired with dedicated engine mapping. Ducati claims a weight saving of 1.7 kg over the standard system, along with improved power delivery and a fuller torque curve, particularly through the midrange.

The Showa suspension receives the same treatment as Ducati’s race bikes, with surface hardening and superfinishing designed to reduce wear from stones and debris while improving bump absorption and consistency. Billet Factory triple clamps save close to 200 grams compared to standard items, while also contributing to a more precise front-end feel.

Protection comes in the form of a skid plate and front brake disc guard, while an RK MXU chain, as used on factory race bikes, is fitted for durability. A holeshot device is standard, compressing the front suspension for improved stability and acceleration off the start gate.

Single-cylinder engine with Desmodromic valve timing

The Desmo450 MX Factory uses Ducati’s Desmodromic valve system, a layout familiar from the brand’s road racing and MotoGP machines. In motocross use, the system allows the engine to run at higher revs with greater over-rev, reducing the need for frequent gear changes and improving starts.

Ducati claims the engine delivers 70 percent of its maximum torque from just 4,200 rpm, contributing to strong drive out of corners and a more manageable power delivery compared to traditional 450cc motocross bikes. The rev limiter is set at 11,900 rpm, placing it at the top end of the class.

Compared to the standard Desmo450 MX, the Factory model’s exhaust and revised mapping improve torque between 4,000 and 7,500 rpm and increase drive during acceleration.

Chassis

The Factory version uses the same aluminium perimeter frame as the standard bike, designed to minimise weight while allowing straight intake and exhaust routing. The frame weighs 8.95 kg and uses a reduced number of welds to balance rigidity, strength and mass.

With its compact layout and centrally mounted shock absorber, the chassis is designed to improve rider ergonomics while also simplifying maintenance tasks at the track. Combined with the upgraded components, the overall package weighs 104 kg ready to ride without fuel.

The suspension setup is fully adjustable front and rear, with Dark Kashima coating improving smoothness and consistency over rough surfaces. Braking duties are handled by Brembo calipers working with Galfer discs front and rear.

Electronics

Ducati’s experience in MotoGP and World Superbike feeds directly into the Desmo450 MX Factory’s electronics package. Ducati Traction Control manages power delivery by measuring actual rear wheel slip, remaining inactive during jumps and automatically re-engaging when required. Riders can temporarily override the system using the clutch lever.

Traction Control offers four levels of intervention, while Launch Control and Engine Brake Control are also adjustable. Two Riding Modes can be customised via the X-Link app, using the standard Wi-Fi module. A Quickshifter is fitted as standard.

Accessories

Ducati Performance offers a range of accessories to replicate the look of the MXGP race bike, including wheels with reinforced spokes and billet hubs, a racing seat and Brembo Racing brake calipers. Official Showa factory race suspension is not available to private riders.

A dedicated technical apparel collection has also been developed in collaboration with Drudi Performance, including Alpinestars riding gear, an Arai helmet and a range of off-bike clothing.

Availability

The Ducati Desmo450 MX Factory is available in Ducati Corse 2025 livery through selected European dealers with off-road expertise. North American availability begins in January 2026, followed by other global markets.

Desmo450 MX Factory technical features:

• Desmo450 single-cylinder engine, 449.6 cc
• Maximum power of 63.5 hp at 9,400 rpm
• Maximum torque of 39.5 ft-lb at 7,500 rpm
• Titanium Akrapovič full exhaust system
• Twin-spar aluminium frame
• 9 US gal (7.2 l) fuel tank
• Showa 49 mm upside-down closed cartridge forks, fully adjustable, 310 mm travel, Dark Kashima coating on outer tubes, TiO treatment with superfinishing on fork legs
• Showa fully adjustable monoshock (high/low speed), 301 mm wheel travel, 50 mm piston, Dark Kashima coating on shock body, TiO treatment with superfinishing on shock rod
• Billet Factory triple clamps
• Holeshot device
• Cast aluminium swingarm
• Wet weight without fuel: 2 lb reduction
• Brembo braking system with single Galfer discs, 260 mm front and 240 mm rear
• Front brake disc protection
• Skid plate
• Pirelli Scorpion MX32 Mid-Soft tyres, 80/100-21 and 110/90-19
• RK MXU Gold non O-ring chain final transmission
• Takasago Excel aluminium rims with Alpina spokes, 21 x 1.60 and 19 x 2.15
• Two Power Modes, two Riding Modes
• Wi-Fi module
• Riding Modes configurable via the X-Link app
• New generation electronics package with Ducati Traction Control, Power Launch, Quick Shift and Engine Brake Control
• Piston replacement every 45 hours
• Valve clearance check every 45 hours
• Full overhaul 90 hours
• Ducati Corse 2025 livery

More information: www.ducati.com