Ducati DesertX Review - First Ride

Ducati DesertX Review - First Ride marks a radical reset for Ducati’s adventure bike, moving from heritage styling to a modern concept. The 2026 DesertX V2 features an all-new structural monocoque chassis and re-engineered ergonomics, built around a new 890cc V2 engine that shifts from Desmodromic to spring-actuated valves. Claimed output remains 110 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and 68 lb-ft of torque at 7,000 rpm, with maintenance intervals of 28,000 miles for valve clearance and oil changes every 9,000 miles. The engine delivers similar peak figures to the prior Testastretta unit but with different rpm, and the bike retains a rugged, off-road capable character while adopting a refined ride on pavement. Ducati emphasizes that no parts are shared with the outgoing model, underscoring the scale of the redesign.