Ducati's new DesertX Rally puts an 890cc V2 in a monocoque chassis

The latest DesertX Rally moves to Ducati's 890cc V2 and an aluminium monocoque chassis. It is a substantial change beneath the familiar rally-style bodywork, with long-travel KYB suspension and a Full Floater rear linkage shaping the new package. The Rally remains the tall, more specialised member of the DesertX family.

The new V2 engine

The engine uses variable intake-valve timing and claims 109hp (81.1kW) at 9,000rpm, with 92Nm at 7,000rpm. Ducati says 70% of the torque is available at 3,000rpm. That low-rev delivery matters for controlling drive on loose surfaces, where a predictable response is more useful than another few horsepower at the top of the rev range.

Long-travel KYB and Full Floater

The 48mm closed-cartridge KYB fork has 250mm of travel and Kashima and DLC treatments to reduce friction. The rear KYB shock gives 240mm, with rebound, remote preload and separate high- and low-speed compression adjustment. An Öhlins steering damper adds another point of adjustment at the front.

The Full Floater rear arrangement changes how the suspension loads the shock through its travel. Together with the adjustable fork and shock, it gives experienced riders considerable setup scope for different terrain and luggage loads. The specification is intended for harder off-road riding, even if the motorcycle will still spend part of its life on the road.

Wheels, seat and weight

Takasago Excel wheels are tubeless, measuring 21 inches at the front and 18 at the rear, with 36 spokes at the back. The standard seat is 900mm high; a low seat takes it to 880mm. Claimed mass is 209kg with fluids but no fuel, so the ready-to-travel figure will be higher once the tank and luggage are added.

Prices

The Italian price is €19,990 including 22% VAT. US MSRP is $19,995, plus $995 destination and local charges. Dealer arrival dates still need confirmation.