Ducati has unveiled the Factory version of its Desmo450 MX motocross bike, a race-ready package aimed at riders looking to compete at high-level off-road competition.
The Desmo450 MX Factory will be available in Australia from March 2026, arriving after its initial release in European and US markets.
At the heart of the Factory version is Ducati’s Desmodromic valve system, the same technology used on the company’s MotoGP Desmosedici. The 449.6cc single-cylinder engine produces 63.5hp (46.7kW) at 9400rpm and 53.5Nm of torque at 7500rpm, with a rev limiter set at 11,900rpm.
The Desmodromic system delivers 70 per cent of maximum torque from 4200rpm, providing strong low-end performance and linear power delivery.
The Factory model weighs 104kg without fuel, 800 grams lighter than the standard Desmo450 MX despite additional equipment. Weight savings come from several areas, including a complete Akrapovic titanium exhaust system that reduces mass by 1.7kg while improving power delivery, and billet aluminium triple clamps that save nearly 200 grams.
Suspension duties are handled by Showa components featuring Dark Kashima coating on the fork legs and shock body, with titanium oxide treatment on the stems and rod. The 49mm upside-down fork offers 310mm of travel, while the fully adjustable rear shock provides 301mm of wheel travel. These treatments increase surface hardness by 60 per cent and improve resistance to wear and stone damage.
The Factory package includes a holeshot device for improved starts, front disc guard, skid plate, and RK MXU o-ring chain. A WiFi module allows riders to customize Riding Modes through Ducati’s X-Link app, adjusting throttle maps, launch control, engine brake, and the bike’s Ducati Traction Control system.
The electronic package includes four levels of DTC intervention, with the system automatically disengaging during jumps and able to be temporarily deactivated with clutch lever pressure. Launch Control, Engine Brake Control, and a quickshifter round out the electronics suite.
Ducati currently competes in the MXGP World Championship and made its AMA Supercross debut with the Desmo450 platform. The Factory version wears Ducati Corse 2025 livery matching the official race bikes.
Maintenance intervals are set at 45 hours for piston replacement and valve clearance checks, with full engine overhauls scheduled at 90 hours.
Australian pricing for the Ducati Desmo450 MX Factory has not been announced. For reference, the standard Desmo450 MX is priced from $16,300.
Editorial Director at infomoto.com.au. Loves Rally bikes.
