2027 Ducati Desmo450 MX and 450 MX Factory: continuous evolution for Borgo Panigale's motocross models

• For the first time, the Desmo450 will receive dedicated suspension settings and components for the US market.
• The Ducati Desmo450 MX evolves with race-developed updates to improve performance and ergonomics.
• The new livery accentuates the racing character and the range's immediate recognizability.

Sunnyvale, Calif., October 8, 2026 - One year after the arrival of its first motocross bike, Ducati confirms its commitment to the market segment by continuing its development, which sees racing and production bikes grow in parallel. Feedback gathered during the first racing season has led to the introduction of an evolution of the Desmo450 MX, with the aim of further improving performance, ergonomics and robustness.

The 2027 model year introduces a series of targeted updates, including a new final drive ratio with a 51-tooth rear sprocket, redesigned gear and brake pedal tips for improved ergonomics, a larger fuel tank filler for faster refueling and new Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tires. Several components have also been updated and reinforced, from the starter motor gear to the water pump oil seal, exhaust manifold, fork slider guards and engine mounting brackets, with the aim of further increasing robustness, reliability and durability. In addition, for the first time, the Desmo450 MX range for the USA will receive a dedicated suspension updates including different triple clamps. The range also introduces a predictive maintenance system that, via the accessory Wi-Fi module, which adapts maintenance intervals to the actual use of the bike. The evolution is completed by a new livery, developed to strengthen its racing character and recognizability.

Desmo450 MX 2027

The Desmo450 MX represents the heart of the Ducati motocross project. Developed and refined through experience gained in racing competition, it was created to offer the best balance of power, lightness, and reliability.

Designed to meet the needs of professional riders and enthusiasts alike, the Desmo450 MX combines high performance with ease of riding. At the heart of the project is the Desmodromic engine, a unique solution in the segment, capable of delivering generous low- and mid-range torque and class-leading top-end acceleration. The aluminum frame, designed with a minimal number of welds to optimize rigidity and lightness, ensures stability, precision and immediate feeling in all conditions. Completing the package are cutting-edge electronics, including the world's first patented Traction Control system dedicated to a motocross bike, capable of intervening in targeted and effective ways to prevent rear wheel spin.

The balance between performance, chassis, and electronics translates into a motorcycle capable of instilling immediate confidence in the rider, promoting effective riding in all conditions.

Starting with the 2027 model year, the Desmo450 MX also introduces a predictive maintenance system available via the accessory Wi-Fi module. By analyzing motorcycle usage data, the system can adapt engine maintenance intervals based on actual riding conditions. This solution allows for more precise and effective maintenance planning, tailoring maintenance to actual use of the bike.

The result of ongoing development on the racetrack, the 2027 Desmo450 MX introduces a series of updates aimed at improving functionality, performance and ergonomics. The new larger 40 mm fuel filler makes refueling quicker and easier. The 51-tooth rear sprocket increases the torque available to the rear wheel, improving the bike's responsiveness when exiting corners. The new gear shift and rear brake pedal tips improve ergonomics and facilitate foot movement during gear changes and braking. The package is completed by the new Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tires, chosen to offer maximum traction and performance on modern motocross tracks.

Several components have been updated and optimized to further increase reliability, robustness, and durability. Among the key improvements are new starter motor gear coupling tolerances, a water pump oil seal with revised geometry and Teflon coating, and a reinforced exhaust manifold in the silencer connection area. Several components subject to impact and stress have also been updated, such as the chain guide support, fork slider guards, and the front engine-to-frame brackets.

The dedicated U.S. suspension refinements result from extensive local-market feedback and testing across the United States, aimed at better accommodating North American tracks, terrain, and rider preferences.

At the front, the Desmo450 MX features a dedicated 22mm triple clamp offset, replacing the previous 20mm configuration. The front fork also receives a revised shim stack and oil level, plus a low-speed valve to improve chassis support and control.

At the rear, the shock features an increased spring rate, from 46 N/mm to 50 N/mm, along with a revised shim stack. Together, these changes provide increased support during jumps and landings while improving stability, precision, and chassis control on high-speed motocross tracks.

Developed directly from U.S. testing and rider feedback, these refinements give North American riders a more confidence-inspiring Desmo450 MX, with improved stability, precision, and overall control across a wider range of track conditions and riding styles.

The Desmo450 MX Model Year 2027 is finally recognizable by its new livery, featuring black logos that replace the previous white ones, giving it an even more racing and distinctive look.

Availability

The MY27 Desmo450 MX is arriving in select North American dealerships in late October, and MSRP remains at $11,495 in the US.

Desmo450 MX MY27

Colors

• Ducati Red with Black logos

Main standard features

• Single-cylinder Desmo450 engine, 449.6 cc
• Maximum power of 63.5 hp at 9,400 rpm, maximum torque of 39.5 ft lbs at 7,500 rpm
• Twin-spar aluminum frame
• 1.9-gallon fuel tank
• 49 mm Showa upside-down forks, fully adjustable, 310 mm travel and Kashima coating on the fork legs
• Fully adjustable Showa monoshock, 301 mm wheel travel
• Cast aluminum swingarm
• Brembo braking system with single Galfer discs, 260 mm (front) and 240 mm (rear)
• DID chain final drive
• Takasago Excel aluminum wheels with Alpina spokes, 21" x 1.60" and 19" x 2.15"
• 2 Power Modes, 2 Riding Modes
• Riding Modes configurable via the accessory X-Link app
• Next-generation electronics package with Ducati Traction Control (DTC); Power Launch; Quick Shift, Engine Brake Control.

Main new features

• Larger fuel tank cap
• 51-tooth rear sprocket
• New gear and brake pedal tips
• New Pirelli Scorpion MX32 Mid-Soft tires, 80/100-21" and 110/90-19"
• Predictive maintenance system available via an accessory Wi-Fi module
• Updated and optimized components to increase reliability and robustness
• New livery with black logos