Ducati is charging into the world of motocross with the unveiling of the Ducati Corse R&D Factory Desmo450 MX prototypes. This marks a significant moment for the iconic Italian brand, signaling their return to the dirt bike scene after decades. Motorcycle enthusiasts got a sneak peek at these groundbreaking machines during the 2024 Campioni in Pista event in Madonna di Campiglio, where they were presented by racing legends Antonio Cairoli and Alessandro Lupino. This exciting development is Ducati’s first foray into motocross since the 1971 450R/T Desmo model, promising a blend of Ducati’s renowned engineering and off-road prowess.
The Desmo450 MX is currently in its prototype phase, with production slated to commence in the latter half of 2025. This initial version is engineered for factory racing, allowing Ducati to gather crucial data and refine the bike’s performance in real-world competitive conditions. The unveiling is more than just a presentation; it’s a declaration of Ducati’s serious intent to compete and innovate in the motocross arena.
A closer inspection of the Desmo450 MX reveals high-end components and meticulous design. The engine’s left side highlights a complex CNC-machined shift lever, cleverly routed around the ignition cover. Key features include a Brembo hydraulic clutch slave unit, robust molded frame guards, and an electric starter motor. The forged swingarm pivot point emphasizes the bike’s racing pedigree. Internally, the engine houses Ducati’s signature Desmodromic valve system, a technology pioneered by Fabio Taglioni in 1956, ensuring precise valve control and high-performance output.
Dubbed the Desmo450 MX, this prototype is presented in a striking racing livery, ready to compete in the Italian Motocross Pro-Prestige MX1 Championship. The Ducati Corse R&D – Factory MX Team, under the management of Corrado and Marco Maddii, will spearhead the racing efforts. The primary objective for this debut racing season is data acquisition. Ducati engineers will closely monitor and analyze the bike’s performance in demanding race environments to inform and enhance the development of the production Desmo450 MX.
The Ducati Corse motocross race team boasts top-tier components. Showa forks ensure advanced front suspension, while Excel rims and Pirelli MX32 Scorpion tires deliver optimal handling and traction. Mousseballs eliminate flat tire risks during intense races. A Get GPS unit mounted on the front fender provides precise performance data acquisition, crucial for race analysis and bike development.
Attention to detail extends to rider ergonomics and bike protection. The seat cover features molded grippers for enhanced rider control, while the swingarm mirrors the frame guards with molded plastic covers, protecting critical components from debris and wear.
Alessandro Lupino is set to compete in all rounds of the Italian Championship and contribute significantly to the testing program, alongside Antonio Cairoli. The Ducati Desmo450 MX is scheduled to make its competitive debut at the first round of the Italian Motocross Pro Prestige MX1 Championship on March 16-17.
Ducati has partnered with Akrapovic for the exhaust system, ensuring both performance and a distinctive sound. When the production Ducati Desmo450 MX hits the market next year, it will be exclusively available in Ducati Red. This iconic color will make it stand out on the track, joining the ranks of other red motocross bikes.
Italian craftsmanship is evident throughout the bike with Brembo brakes and clutch systems, and even the throttle cable is sourced from Italy, emphasizing Ducati’s commitment to quality and local suppliers.
While the prototype features high-spec Brembo works calipers, the production Desmo450 MX is expected to come with standard Brembo components. However, for riders seeking ultimate braking performance, the works calipers are available as an upgrade through KTM Power Parts, albeit at a premium price.
Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali highlighted the significance of this motocross venture during the official 2024 racing season team presentation. He expressed his excitement at seeing the Ducati Lenovo Team, Aruba.it – Racing Ducati Team, and the new Ducati Corse R&D – Factory MX Team represented together. Domenicali emphasized that despite their different disciplines, these teams are united by a common project, symbolized by the shared Ducati Red livery and a new graphic logo inspired by the thrill of cornering. He underscored Ducati’s commitment to future investment and innovation, stating that entering motocross exemplifies the company’s relentless pursuit of improvement and victory, embracing challenges to achieve peak performance.
