The off-road 2026 Ducati Desmo450 EDX is here, based on the motocross-focused Desmo450 MX. It features several enhancements to improve the platform’s performance for off-roading. So, for those who prefer riding on natural terrain to a groomed motocross track, let’s go over the new EDX, which Ducati says is short for Enduro-Cross.
- The 2026 Ducati Desmo450 EDX is powered by a DOHC motor that puts out 63 horsepower at 9400 rpm. The cams are desmodromically driven, allowing for larger valves and more flexibility in cam timing and the rev ceiling, with the redline stepping in at a stratospheric 11,900 rpm for plenty of overrev. Torque peaks at 39 lb-ft at 7500 rpm, with 70 percent of that available at 4200 rpm.
- At 45 hours, you have two jobs: replace the piston and check the valve clearance. Rebuilds happen at 90 hours. If you fall, the ECU shuts the engine off to prevent damage to the powerplant.
- The four-level adjustable traction control is highly sophisticated. It is informed by several factors and sensors before intervening, with the changes happening in milliseconds. This means it knows what you’re doing, so it will not activate on jumps, for instance. The traction control system operated by adjusting the throttle input and retarding ignition timing.
- There are two configurable ride modes on the 2026 Ducati Desmo450 EDX. Engine braking is also adjustable, and launch control is part of the package. However, to configure the ride modes wirelessly, you have to dip into Ducati’s accessories catalog for the WiFi module and download the X-Link app.
- A quickshifter is standard for the five-speed transmission. However, it is up only.
- Although the aluminum frame is unchanged from the MX, the Showa suspension gets off-road settings. Ducati has softened the damping and the spring rates for the EDX.
- The wheelset is aimed at off-road riders. Pirelli Scorpion XC Mid Soft tires are mounted on 21- and 18-inch Takasago Excel rims with Alpina spokes.
- The fuel tank on the EDX holds 2.2 gallons. This also means the seat and shrouds are unique to the bike.
- Handguards and a skid plate are standard.Â
- You can have the 2026 Ducati Desmo450 EDX in any color you like, as long as it’s Ducati Red. The EDX hits Ducati showroom floors in January with an MSRP of $12,495.
2026 Ducati Desmo450 EDX Specs
ENGINE
- Type: 4-stroke single
- Displacement: 450cc
- Bore x stroke: 96 x 62.1mm
- Maximum power: 63 horsepower @ 9400 rpm
- Maximum torque: 39 lb-ft @ 7500 rpm
- Rev limit: 11,900 rpm
- Compression ratio: 13.5:1
- Valvetrain: Desmodromic DOHC; 4 valves
- Fueling: Mikuni 44mm throttle body w/ Keihin injector
- Transmission: 5-speed w/ up-only quickshifter
- Clutch: Hydraulically actuated wet multiplate
- Final drive: D.I.D DMS 520 chain
CHASSIS
- Frame: Cast, forged, and extruded aluminum
- Front suspension; travel: Fully adjustable Showa closed-cartridge inverted 49mm fork w/ Kashima coating: 12.2 inches
- Rear suspension; travel: Linkage-assisted, fully adjustable Showa shock; 11.9 inches
- Wheels: Alpina spokes w/ Takasago Excel rim
- Front wheel: 21 x 1.6
- Rear wheel: 18 x 2.15
- Tires: Pirelli Scorpion XC Mid Soft
- Front tire: 80/100-21
- Rear tire: 110/100-18
- Front brake: Galfer 260mm disc w/ Brembo 2-piston floating caliper
- Rear brake: Galfer 240mm disc w/ Brembo single-piston floating caliper
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
- Wheelbase: 58.8 inches
- Rake: 27.3 degrees
- Trail: 4.6 inches
- Seat height: 38.2 inches
- Fuel capacity: 2.2 gallons
- Wet weight: 249 pounds
- Color: Ducati Red
2026 Ducati Desmo450 EDX Price: $12,495 MSRP
