Ducati has offically unveiled the DesertX, the latest addition from the Borgo Panigale factory during the final episode of Ducati World Premier 2021 web series.
The DesertX is finally showcased in its production form, two years since the prototype concept was revealed at 2019 EICMA.
The Ducati DesertX is the latest contender in a competitive ADV category which includes the Triumph Tiger 900 Rally, Honda CRF1100L Africa Twin and the upcoming MV Agusta Lucky Explorer 9.5.
According to Ducati, the DesertX is heavily inspired by the rally raiders that competed in the Paris-Dakar Rally during the 80s and 90s.
Dressed in an all-white with red accents, the DesertX appears in a heavy off-road elements combines with a distinctive twin circular LED headlights with DRL (Daytime Running Light).
The Ducati DesertX is built around an all-new steel trellis frame, aimed to improve rigidity especially in rough terrain. It also come equipped with a dedicated long travel suspension settings paired to a 21″ front and 18″ rear wheel.
The suspension system is handled by a full-adjustable Kayaba 46mm upside-down front forks and full-adjustable Kayaba monoshock with preload adjustment.
Other standard features available on the DesertX includes:
- Wheelie Control
- Engine Brake Control
- Ducati Quick Shift
- Cruise Control
- Ducati Brake Light
- USB power Socket
- Steering damper
- 21L tank (with additional 8L tank as optional)
Meanwhile, braking is done by 320mm aluminium flange semi-floating disc paired to a Brembo M50 callipers and assisted by Bosch Cornering ABS.
At the heart sits the 937cc Testastretta 11-degree Desmodromic engine capable of producing 110hp @ 9,250rpm and 92Nm @ 6,500rpm.
However, in respect to the same engine used on the Monster and Hypermotard, Ducati has updated the powerplant with lighter components.
In turn, the new Testastretta on the DesertX is now 1.7kg lighter, contributed by a new sound absorbing covers, new clutch, new clutch cover, revised gearbox and ignition stick coils.
According to Ducati, the engine has also been tweaked to allow for more seamless low-speed changes.
Ducati also optimised the riders seat, to ensure comfort on-road and off-road with an adjustable saddle. The pillion seat can also be remove.
Taller dashboard also allow riders to to see the 5″ TFT dash while standing up.
The DesertX offers six riding modes comprising of Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro and Rally. Riders can also adjust the power modes accordingly.
The 2022 Ducati DesertX is expected to be made available worldwide beginning May 2022.
