Ducati has unveiled a new off-road motorcycle based on the Multistrada V2. It is called the Ducati DesertX, and it is designed to run and jump across dunes like a purpose-built Dakar rally bike. The DesertX has been designed from the ground up to be comfortable, fast, lightweight, and durable in the harsh environment of open desert travel. This motorcycle is the first Ducati to feature 21-inch wheels at the front and 18-inch at the back. In addition, the wheels are attached to long-travel Kayaba suspension and offer 230mm of travel at the front and 220mm in the rear with a damping system tuned for off-road.
Like the Multistrada V2, the Ducati DesertX is powered by the 937cc Testastretta V-twin engine producing a healthy 108-hp and 68 lb.-ft of torque. However, its gearbox is tuned differently for off-road use and has shorter gears than the Ducati Multistrada V2. Furthermore, the braking system provided by Brembo is tuned for improved stopping power on slippery surfaces. In addition, the position of the bike’s seat, footrests, and handlebars are more ergonomic for the rider in a standing position.
Everything on the Ducati DesertX sits on a brand new chassis. Ducati’s goal was to create a “sports tool” for the desert. It is a bike that captures the brand’s reputation for speed and handling on different terrains. Riders have six riding modes to choose from and track the bike’s vitals on a five-inch full-color TFT digital dash with connectivity options and turn-by-turn navigation. Options for the bike include an extended fuel tank and an aluminum luggage rack. The DesertX off-road Ducati is expected to arrive in dealers by May 2022 – just in time for summer.
In case you missed it, check out the Ducati Multistrada V2.
