Ducati DesertX 2026: Off-Road Evolution with a 890 cc V2 Engine

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The second generation Ducati DesertX was officially unveiled at Ducati World Première 2026, bringing major changes in the engine, chassis, and technology sectors. This adventure motorcycle has been redesigned from the ground up to boost off-road capability without sacrificing daily riding comfort. Quoted from Ducati’s official site, the DesertX was born from development experience in extreme rallies such as Erzbergrodeo, Rally of Albania, Transanatolia Rally, and the NORRA Mexican 1000 Rally. The latest DesertX features a Ducati V2 engine with a displacement of 890 cc that produces 110 hp and a maximum torque of 92 Nm. The engine is claimed to have a quicker throttle response thanks to Variable Intake Valve Timing (IVT), with 70 percent of torque available from 3,000 RPM to aid acceleration in tough terrain and on the road. The front suspension is the latest Kayaba, and a progressive linkage at the rear makes the bike more stable on off-road trails. The 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel are paired with Pirelli Scorpion Rally Street tyres for versatile use. In terms of ergonomics, the riding position has been made more upright with a wide handlebar, rearward-set footpegs, and an 18-litre polymer fuel tank that is slimmer and lighter. This design helps control when standing on off-road terrain while also maintaining comfort for long-distance travel. Electronics are one of the main upgrades, via a six-axis inertial platform that manages Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control, Wheelie Control, and Engine Brake Control in real time. There are six riding modes available, including Enduro and Rally, designed to help riders learn off-road techniques like professionals. Ducati also equips the DesertX with a 5-inch TFT display, Ducati Quick Shift 2.0, and various Ducati Performance accessories such as an additional rear fuel tank, turn-by-turn navigation system, and exhaust resulting from a collaboration with Termignoni. The 2026 Ducati DesertX is scheduled to begin arriving at European dealers in April 2026, before following to the United States, Australia, and Japan a few months later.