2022 Ducati Desert X

2022 Ducati Desert X.

The 2022 Ducati DesertX is an adventure-focused motorcycle that combines Ducati's performance-oriented engineering with the equipment and stance needed for varied riding. Its rally-inspired design, white and red finish and upright riding position give it a distinctive presence, while the 937 cc liquid-cooled Testastretta 11° L-twin provides the mechanical foundation for both everyday road use and longer exploratory rides.

Versatility is central to the DesertX concept. The motorcycle is classified as a Road bike, but its long-travel suspension, large-diameter front wheel and spoked rims give it the hardware associated with more demanding terrain. A 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel are fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tyres, providing a configuration suited to a broad mixture of sealed and unsealed surfaces. The fully adjustable KYB upside-down front fork offers 230 mm of travel, while the adjustable KYB rear monoshock provides 220 mm and remote preload adjustment. Together, these components allow the chassis to be set up with greater precision for differing conditions and loads.

On the road, the liquid-cooled L-twin engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission and chain final drive. Bosch electronic fuel injection and an electric starter support straightforward operation, while the wet, multi-plate hydraulic slipper clutch is designed to make gear changes more manageable and controlled. Ducati Quick Shift up/down is also listed, adding convenience when shifting through the gearbox. The engine specification includes a desmodromic cam system, a 13.3:1 compression ratio and a two-cylinder L-twin configuration.

The DesertX also brings a substantial level of electronic assistance. Cornering ABS, selectable ABS levels, Ducati Traction Control and a six-axis inertial measurement unit help coordinate the motorcycle's safety systems with changing riding conditions. Multiple riding modes are listed, including Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro and Rally, allowing the character of the motorcycle to be adjusted to suit the environment and the rider's priorities. A five-inch full-colour TFT display provides the primary instrumentation, while cruise control and Ducati Multimedia System compatibility add useful touring-oriented functionality.

Braking hardware is supplied by Brembo, with twin 320 mm front discs and radial-mount monobloc calipers, supported by a 265 mm rear disc and Brembo floating caliper. Standard traction control and ABS complement the braking package. Full LED lighting is included, helping maintain the DesertX's modern appearance while supporting visibility in varied conditions.

With a listed dry weight of 202 kg, a 1,608 mm wheelbase and an 875 mm seat height, this is a substantial motorcycle with a purposeful adventure stance. The two-person rider capacity adds touring flexibility. Its combination of adjustable long-travel suspension, electronic rider aids, road-oriented performance and off-road-capable wheel sizing makes the DesertX a considered choice for riders seeking one motorcycle that can cover commuting, touring and recreational exploration without being limited to a single type of road.

• 937 cc liquid-cooled L-twin petrol engine
• Six-speed manual transmission with chain drive
• 21-inch front and 18-inch rear laced-spoke wheels
• Fully adjustable KYB suspension front and rear
• Brembo braking system with ABS
• Ducati Traction Control and multiple riding modes
• Five-inch full-colour TFT instrumentation
• 13,919 km indicated

Other highlights include Exterior colour: Ducati White/Red.