Ducati Desmo450 MX arrives

Almost a year after Australian pricing was announced, Ducati’s ‘Desmo450 MX’ has finally reached local dealerships. To coincide with the Desmo450 MX’s arrival, Ducati Australia have announced a partnership with FMX athlete, Corey Creed, who will campaign the new bike in X Games and freestyle events.

“This motorcycle embodies our racing DNA, advanced engineering and relentless focus on performance,” said Sergi Canovas, Managing Director Ducati Australia and New Zealand. “We are proud to introduce this bike to Australian audiences with Corey Creed and to work alongside Motorcycles R Us in bringing this project to life.

“Partnering with Corey Creed allows us to showcase the Desmo450 MX in an environment where innovation, skill and passion are pushed to the absolute limit.”

Creed said the Desmo450 MX immediately stood out for its balance of power, control and technology. “The Desmo450 MX is unlike anything I’ve ridden before. The power delivery, control and electronics give me the confidence to push harder and be more creative on the bike.

“Partnering with Ducati for my X Games competition and freestyle events and activities is an incredible opportunity, and I’m excited to show global fans what this machine is capable of.”

Unique amongst MX bikes in its use of desmodromic valve control, the Desmo450 MX’s 450cc single produces 46.7kW at 9,400rpm and 53.5Nm at 7,500rpm. The liquid-cooled, DOHC 4-valve engine features 13.5:1 compression, a Keihin injector and 44mm Mikuni throttle body. A five-speed gearbox features a quickshifter (up only) and 13/49 sprocket combo.

The all-aluminium frame combines cast, forged and extruded sections, while suspension is Showa at each end, with full adjustability, 310mm front and 301mm rear travel. Wheels are 21-inch front and 19-inch rear, with Excel rims and Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tyres. Braking uses a Galfer 260mm front and 240mm rear disc, with a Brembo two-piston caliper on the front disc.

Tech on the Desmo450 MX includes two riding modes, launch, traction and engine brake control, an hourmeter and fall detection. An optional ‘Com-Link’ wi-fi connectivity module allows bike data and service history to be monitored using Ducati’s X-Link app. Key weights and measures include a 7.2-litre fuel capacity, 970mm seat height and 104.8kg dry weight.

In addition to the standard model, which is priced from $16,800 RRP, a Desmo450 MX ‘Factory’ variant is also available. From $19,100 RRP, the Factory version adds upgraded suspension, a full Akrapovic exhaust system (that cuts overall weight by 800g), Brembo rear caliper, RK chain, Com-Link module, Holeshot device, engine and front brake protection, plus ‘Ducati Corse’ graphics.

For more details, see your Ducati dealer.