The Desmo450 MX design started with the engine, which flaunts desmodromic timing. The Desmo450 engine delivers maximum power of 63.5 hp at 9400 rpm, and maximum torque of 53.5 Nm at 7500 rpm. The limiter is set at 11,900 rpm, a new benchmark for the category. The fact that the engine can run at very high rpm means less gear shifting. In addition, the desmodromic system really comes into its own out of the gate, as the rider goes for the holeshot, pushing to be first out of turn one. The torque curve is very favourable at low revs, improving the drive out of the turns and making the ride less challenging and less tiring.

To achieve the straightest possible intake duct to guarantee the best engine performance, Ducati has opted for an aluminium perimeter frame with the least possible number of weld joints, achieving the best combination of lightness, reliability and stiffness calibration. The Desmo450 MX frame is composed of just 11 elements, roughly half the number used in the frames of other motocross bikes on the market.

The Desmo450 MX makes full use of Ducati’s experience in developing electronic control and riding assistance systems. In addition to the two standard Riding Modes, the user will be able to create completely customised Riding Modes via the dedicated Ducati X-Link app, configuring the levels of throttle response, Ducati Traction Control, Engine Brake Control and launch control.

An extremely compact bike, designed according to Ducati style canons to maximise the rider’s freedom of movement and vehicle control. The contact surfaces beneath the seat are designed to provide the rider with references and facilitate their movements, with the textures of the frame’s side covers heightening grip. The super structures and frame are specifically designed to facilitate trackside maintenance.

The suspension and brakes on the Desmo450 MX were a targeted choice. Ducati trusts in the extensive racing experience of Showa, its historic partner also for the road bikes. The debut win for Lupino at Mantua showcased the high level of Showa standard material. The 49 mm USD fork offers 310 mm of travel, while the shock, with 16 mm shaft and 129 mm of travel, is mounted on the cast swingarm. Total wheel travel is 301 mm.

The callipers and master cylinders are produced by Brembo, an historic Ducati partner selected to develop cutting-edge braking systems for motocross, just as it does for the road bikes. The discs are supplied by Galfer, single discs of 260 mm at the front and 240 mm at the rear.

Traction control on the Desmo450 MX is a latest-generation system that estimates actual rear wheel slip by combining camshaft rotation speed with inertial measurement of the vehicle dynamics, thus ensuring intervention efficiency, promptness and linearity.

Thanks to the WiFi connectivity unit, which is available as an accessory, the user can connect to the bike and, with the dedicated X-Link app, available soon, customize the Riding Mode, keep track of the vehicle’s service history and monitor its status.