New Delhi: Ducati has revealed the second-generation DesertX at its World Premiere 2026 event. The updated adventure motorcycle gets major changes to its engine, frame and electronics. The company says it has redesigned the bike from scratch to improve its off-road performance while keeping it practical for daily riding.
The DesertX is already known among adventure riders for mixing rally-style design with Ducati’s road bike experience. With this new version, Ducati says it has used feedback from extreme terrain testing and competitive events to make the bike more capable and easier to handle in tough conditions.
DesertX: Engine and performance
Ducati DesertX
The 2026 DesertX is powered by a new 890 cc V2 engine. It produces 110 hp and 92 Nm of torque. Ducati claims that 70 per cent of the torque is available at just 3,000 rpm, which should help in slow and technical off-road sections.
The first four gears are shorter to give better control on rough terrain. Sixth gear is longer for more relaxed highway cruising. Valve clearance checks are required every 45,000 km, while oil service is scheduled at 15,000 km or every two years.
DesertX: Hardware details
The bike now uses a new aluminium monocoque frame. The engine acts as a stressed member, and the frame also works as the airbox. Suspension is handled by fully adjustable Kayaba units, offering 230 mm travel at the front and 220 mm at the rear. A new progressive rear linkage has been added to improve comfort and reduce harsh bottoming on big bumps.
Braking duties are managed by Brembo M4.32 monobloc callipers with dual 305 mm discs at the front. Ducati has also revised the master cylinder for better feel, especially during off-road riding.
The DesertX runs on 21-inch front and 18-inch rear tubeless spoked wheels. It comes fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally Street tyres as standard. Seat height is 880 mm, with an optional setup that lowers it to 840 mm.
DesertX:Design and features
The bike keeps its rally-inspired look, with a high front mudguard, slim tail and full-LED lighting. The front section is now 20 mm lower than before.
The DesertX gets a six-axis IMU that controls Cornering ABS, traction control, wheelie control, engine brake control and Ducati Quick Shift 2.0. There are six riding modes, including Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro and Rally. A new 5-inch TFT screen shows all the information.
The motorcycle will go on sale in Europe in April 2026. The United States will get it in May, followed by Australia and Japan in June. There is no update yet on an India launch.