Unveiling the Second-Generation Ducati DesertX Rally: Born from Rallies, Built for Adventure

The adventure segment has seen its fair share of machines claiming true off-road pedigree, but few can back it up like Ducati. Tested and proven in the world’s most grueling off-road competitions—from the twin-cylinder victory at the Erzbergrodeo Iron Road Prolog to the demanding trails of the Transanatolia and Hellas Rally—the DesertX project has evolved through competitive riding. 

Ducati has officially unveiled the second-generation DesertX Rally. Designed specifically for committed off-road riders and adventure travelers who push beyond paved roads, this new iteration elevates off-road capability, precision chassis performance, and rider control.

What Makes the Second-Gen DesertX Rally Different?

While the standard DesertX offers versatile all-round adventure capability, the DesertX Rally is engineered with a single-minded focus: maximum performance on demanding terrain. 

Equipped with competition-derived components and specialist off-road hardware, the second-generation model comes factory-fitted with everything you need for serious rally-raid adventures.   

1. Pro-Level Kayaba Suspension

Up front, the Rally features 48mm closed-cartridge KYB forks offering 250mm of travel (a 20mm increase over the standard DesertX). The inner tubes feature a DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating, while the outer tubes receive a Kashima coating to drastically reduce friction and increase durability. 

At the rear, a fully adjustable Kayaba shock absorber utilizes a Full Floater linkage system to deliver 240mm of progressive wheel travel. Paired with an Öhlins adjustable steering damper, the chassis provides composure and high-speed stability across loose surfaces and deep ruts. 

2. Heavy-Duty Tubeless Spoked Wheels

For serious off-road riding, wheel strength is critical. The DesertX Rally features specialized Takasago EXCEL spoked rims (21” front / 18” rear) built with an inner-spoke configuration. This setup provides maximum resistance to impacts and scratches while retaining the convenience and quick-repair benefits of tubeless technology.   

3. Dedicated Rally Ergonomics & Equipment

Every detail on the Rally serves a functional purpose on the trail: 

• High Front Fender: Designed to prevent mud buildup during technical wet sections while lending an aggressive rally-raid stance. 
• Single-Piece Rally Seat: Styled for rapid transitions between seated and standing positions, giving you total freedom of movement. 
• 4mm Reinforced Aluminium Skid Plate: Features additional mounting points for optimized impact load distribution across the underside. 
• Termignoni Titanium Exhaust: Standard equipment that reduces weight while sharpening the V2 engine's exhaust note.

Engine & Electronics: Smooth Power & Advanced Control

At the heart of the new DesertX Rally is Ducati’s 890cc 90° V2 engine, producing 110 hp at 9,000 rpm and 92 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. Featuring Intake Variable Timing, the engine delivers smooth, tractable power low down in the rev range and a broad torque curve through the mid-range—making traction management on loose dirt intuitive and effortless. A 35kW version is also available for A2 license holders. 

To support the powertrain, Ducati has equipped the Rally with its latest electronic suite: 

• Quick Shift 2.0: For seamless clutchless up and downshifts on technical trails. 
• 5" Colour TFT Display: Integrated portrait-orientated screen optimized for readability whether standing or sitting. 
• Comprehensive Riding Modes: Advanced Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), and tailored riding modes designed specifically for off-road terrain.   

Technical Specifications at a Glance

• Engine: 890cc 90° V2 with Intake Variable Timing 
• Power: 110 hp @ 9,000 rpm 
• Torque: 92 Nm @ 7,000 rpm 
• Wet Weight (No Fuel): 209 kg 
• Ground Clearance: 256 mm 
• Seat Height: 900 mm 
• Front Suspension: 48mm KYB closed cartridge fork (250mm travel) 
• Rear Suspension: Kayaba shock absorber with Full Floater linkage (240mm travel) 
• Wheels: Takasago EXCEL tubeless spoked (21" front / 18" rear) 
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 Litres   

Register Your Interest at On Yer Bike Ducati Aylesbury

Whether you are tackling long-distance rally-raid adventures or seeking absolute confidence on local unpaved trails, the second-generation Ducati DesertX Rally is built to take you further. 

Want to secure yours or learn more about availability? Get in touch with our specialist team at On Yer Bike / Ducati Aylesbury today to register your early interest or discuss custom configurations.

Call us: 01296 655999

Visit us: On Yer Bike, A41 Bicester Road, Westcott, Aylesbury, HP18 0JX