Ducati has officially entered the world of motocross with the launch of their first-ever motocross bike, the Desmo450 MX. Now available in European dealerships, it’s expected to hit the U.S. by the end of July, with a global rollout to follow shortly after.
This isn’t just another recreational bike for Ducati. The Desmo450 MX was developed with a competitive edge in mind, built with a race-focused approach and tested under the pressure of real competition. It’s clear that Ducati is fully committed to making its mark in the motocross arena.
From Concept to Competition: The Desmo450 MX Journey
Ducati provides an inside look into the creation of the Desmo450 MX through a brief video that covers the bike’s development from start to finish. From the engine assembly to the first ignition and final inspection, it’s built with precision in Borgo Panigale, but designed to tackle the dirt tracks head-on.
The results are already speaking volumes. Alessandro Lupino claimed the Italian Prestige MX1 title aboard this very bike, while riders like Jeremy Seewer and Mattia Guadagnini have been tearing up the MXGP circuit, consistently landing on the podium and grabbing holeshots. The bike’s development also saw the involvement of motocross legend Tony Cairoli, who raced the Desmo450 MX in two U.S. rounds at RedBud and Spring Creek. Ducati is also setting the foundation for its U.S. motocross program in collaboration with Troy Lee Designs.
A Customizable Ride Right Out of the Box
True to Ducati’s reputation, the Desmo450 MX is designed for customization. Thanks to Ducati’s online configurator, riders can outfit the bike with factory-grade Performance parts. These include a full Akrapovi? titanium exhaust system, Brembo Racing brake calipers, CNC steering plates and hubs — all the components used by Ducati’s professional riders. Simply select your setup, sync it with your dealer, and you’re ready to hit the track.
Gear to Match Your Ride
For riders who like their gear to match their bike, Ducati has launched an entire off-road gear line in collaboration with Drudi Performance. The collection includes jerseys, pants, gloves, and boots from Alpinestars, as well as an Arai helmet and a selection of rain jackets, softshells, and vests from Spidi. These aren’t just stylish pieces; they’re designed for performance and durability, ready for the track.
Conclusion: Ducati’s Full Throttle Into Motocross
The Desmo450 MX isn’t just a test of Ducati’s ability to create a motocross bike — it’s a bold statement of intent. With a race-proven pedigree, victories already under its belt, and the backing of some of the biggest names in the sport, Ducati’s new motocross bike is making waves. If you’re serious about off-road riding and are looking for something beyond the usual brands, the Desmo450 MX could be the bike you’ve been waiting for.
