Ducati, synonymous of speed, innovation, and Italian craftsmanship, continues to push the boundaries of motorcycle engineering. With an unwavering commitment to performance and aesthetic brilliance, Ducati’s latest creation, the DesertX Discovery, upholds this legacy. Following the success of the DesertX Rally, which garnered admiration for its exceptional off-road capabilities, Ducati enthusiasts and adventure riders eagerly anticipate the arrival of the DesertX Discovery.

The DesertX Rally made headlines with its impressive debut at the Erzbergrodeo 2023, driven by enduro racing legend Antoine Meo. This event highlighted Ducati’s prowess in the adventure motorcycle segment. The DesertX Discovery is set to build on this foundation, promising unparalleled adventures on and off the road. As the DesertX Discovery arrived in dealerships in July 2024, riders look forward to a bike designed to conquer any terrain with confidence and style.

Design and Style

The Ducati DesertX Discovery captivates with its unique Thrilling Black/Ducati Red livery, making a bold impression on and off the road. This striking color scheme boosts the bike’s visual appeal and underscores its adventurous spirit. The DesertX Discovery is designed to stand out in any scenario, showcasing Ducati’s to create visually stunning motorcycles.

The DesertX Rally features a high front mudguard, emphasizing its off-road readiness and a design philosophy that seamlessly blends form and function. Both models share the unmistakable Ducati style, characterized by meticulous attention to detail and a focus on performance. The Discovery, while also embodying Ducati’s distinctive design, incorporates elements catering to riders seeking a versatile machine capable of tackling paved roads and rugged trails.
- Reinforced hand guards
- Engine guard with protection for the water pump
- Radiator grill
- Reinforced sump guard
- Larger windshield
Overall, the DesertX Discovery and DesertX Rally exemplify Ducati’s dedication to creating motorcycles that are as visually appealing as they are capable. While the Rally focuses on extreme off-road performance, the Discovery offers a balanced design that excels in various riding conditions.

Engineering Excellence and Build

The Ducati DesertX Discovery showcases engineering excellence through its robust build quality. Designed to be unstoppable on any terrain, the Discovery comes standard with rugged protective features, including reinforced hand guards, an engine guard, and additional shielding for critical components like the water pump and radiator. These features ensure the bike can withstand the most challenging conditions, providing riders with peace of mind on their adventures.

In comparison, the DesertX Rally integrates technologies typically reserved for professional motocross and enduro bikes. Both models emphasize durability and resilience, with the Rally boasting features like a closed-cartridge KYB fork and a fully adjustable large piston shock absorber. The Discovery complements this with components designed to increase rider comfort and protection, such as heated grips and a larger windshield.

While the Rally is tailored for extreme off-road performance, the Discovery balances ruggedness with rider convenience. Including a central stand improves stability and facilitates access to luggage during stops and maintenance operations on the chain and rear wheel. This practical addition underscores Ducati’s commitment to combining performance with usability.

Close-up of Ducati DesertX Rally's high front mudguard and wheel.

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Performance and Power

At the heart of the DesertX Discovery lies Ducati’s renowned 937 cc Testastretta 11° engine. This liquid-cooled twin-cylinder engine delivers 110 horsepower at 9,250 rpm and a maximum torque of 68 lb-ft (92 Nm) at 6,500 rpm. Optimized for specific use in the gearbox and electronic equipment, the engine provides a powerful and controlled riding experience, making the Discovery versatile for both road and off-road adventures.

The DesertX Rally shares the same 937 cc engine but is fine-tuned for racing and extreme off-road conditions. It features dedicated gear ratios and specific electronic system calibration to ensure the power is always there when needed. The Rally’s engine, delivering 110 horsepower and 68 lb-ft (92 Nm) of torque, offers a thrilling combination of strength and sophistication.

Both models have a linear and manageable power delivery, ensuring riders can harness the engine’s potential without being overwhelmed. The Discovery’s engine is complemented by a chassis based on a steel trellis frame with long suspension travel, which is suitable for any adventure. Combined with the triple homologation for the tires, this setup allows riders to choose between different possibilities, from road-oriented solutions to those more suited for off-road conditions.

In summary, the DesertX Discovery and Rally feature Ducati’s powerful Testastretta 11° engine, tailored to their specific use cases. The Discovery offers a balanced performance for various terrains, while the Rally focuses on delivering exceptional power and control for the most demanding off-road challenges.

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Advanced Electronics and Riding Modes

The Ducati DesertX Discovery has an advanced electronics suite to enhance the overall performance and ride control. Central to this suite is the Turn-by-Turn navigator, which can be used through the Ducati Link App. This feature guides the rider toward their destination by displaying directions directly on the dashboard, ensuring a seamless and intuitive navigation experience.

The DesertX Discovery offers a variety of Riding Modes to suit different terrains and riding styles. Specifically, three Riding Modes are dedicated to road use, while two are designed for off-road riding. This versatility allows riders to adapt their performance to their specific needs, whether navigating city streets or tackling rugged trails.

The DesertX Rally features six tailor-made Riding Modes: Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, and Rally. These modes transform the bike to handle diverse environments, showcasing Ducati’s expertise in delivering versatility and powerful performance. The Rally also boasts finely tuned Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), and Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), recalibrated for challenging off-road use.

Both models include a vertically oriented, high-resolution 5″ color TFT display, which provides vital information and integrates with the Ducati Multimedia System. This integration allows riders to connect their smartphones and access functions like music control, call management, and optional turn-by-turn navigation, increasing the overall convenience and functionality of the bike.