2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery Review

2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery
DesertX Discovery: designed for those who want to live life to the full, no holds barred.
ReviewKey FeaturesFeatures & BenefitsSpecifications

2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery 2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery 2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery 2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery 2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery

2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery: DREAM WILDER. DISCOVER.

Introducing the new 2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery…

Exploration. Fun. Performance. And a real craving to set off and head for the horizon. The identity of this bike leaves no doubt – just one look will have you dreaming of adventure. And with the DesertX Discovery trim, you are even freer to explore the unexplored, no holds barred.

The pleasure of exploration
Designed and accessorised to offer unprecedented versatility, DesertX Discovery is the ideal choice for those seeking touring agility and off-road character.

The DesertX Discovery trim includes a dedicated Thrilling Black and Ducati Red livery created with adhesive graphics to protect surfaces from scratches and a comprehensive package of standard accessories to make it even better suited to exploration.

Developed to take on the most challenging off-road trails

Ergonomics, engine, aerodynamics, and electronics, together with an off-road specific chassis, form the base of DesertX. As efficient and technologically advanced as every Ducati, DesertX is robust, reliable and functional, the ideal travel companion for your adventures.

DesertX Discovery: designed for those who want to live life to the full, no holds barred.

We have designed a trim that includes a wide range of accessories to ensure this version is a born adventurer. The side cases, hand guards and significant protection on DesertX Discovery contribute to ensuring a carefree trip that is nothing but enjoyment.

 

 

2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

DISPLACEMENT 937 cc
POWER 110 hp (81 kW) @ 9,250 rpm
TORQUE 68 lb-ft (92 Nm, 9.4 kgm) @ 6,500 rpm
WET WEIGHT NO FUEL 463 lb (210 kg)

SEAT HEIGHT
34.4 in (875 mm)
35.0 in (890 mm) with high seat accessory
34.1 in (865 mm) with low seat accessory
33.3 in (845 mm) with low seat + low suspension kit accessory

MAINTENANCE SERVICE INTERVALS
9,000 miles (15,000 km) / 24 months

 

Ducati DesertX Discovery, the bike ready to embark on adventure without limits

  • A DesertX ready for any adventure, thanks to a rich set of accessories and the proven technical base with 21″ front wheel
  • The new Thrilling Black/Ducati Red livery makes it unique and bold, to stand out in every scenario, even where the asphalt ends
  • DesertX Discovery will be in dealerships starting July 2024

Borgo Panigale (Bologna, Italy), – The DesertX Discovery is the Ducati that comes ready to experience unforgettable adventures on and off-road thanks to “full optional” equipment that makes it ready to discover any destination. With the new DesertX Discovery you can enjoy your travels like never before, thanks to components designed to increase the comfort and protection of the bike and rider, sure not to go unnoticed with the gritty new Thrilling Black/Ducati Red livery.

The DesertX Discovery was created to be unstoppable on any terrain and for this reason it is equipped as standard with reinforced hand guards and engine guard with protection for the water pump, radiator grill and reinforced sump guard to protect the bike on the most difficult sections. The heated grips and the larger windshield increase comfort at low temperatures, and the central stand makes the motorcycle more stable, facilitating access to luggage during stops and maintenance operations on the chain and rear wheel.

The DesertX is the ideal travel companion even on road routes thanks to a nimble and precise chassis, which ensures easy and intuitive riding. For this reason, the Turn-by-turn navigator, which can be used through the Ducati Link App, guides the rider towards his destination clearly by showing the directions directly on the dashboard.

The DesertX is a versatile motorcycle, at ease on mixed alpine routes as well as on dirt tracks, thanks to a chassis based on a steel trellis frame, with long suspension travel, which makes it suitable for any adventure. At the same time, the triple homologation for the tyres allows you to choose between different possibilities: from solutions that favour road driving, to others more oriented towards off-road.

The heart of the DesertX is the 937 cc liquid-cooled Testastretta 11° desmodromic distribution engine with 110 hp at 9,250 rpm and maximum torque of 92 Nm at 6,500 rpm, optimized for specific use in the gearbox and electronic equipment. On DesertX, in fact, three Riding modes are dedicated to road use while two are specifically designed for off-road riding. Thanks to a tank with a capacity of over 21 litres, it is possible to travel whilst limiting refuelling stops to a minimum.

The DesertX family (which can be customized through the new configurator), in addition to the new Discovery, also includes the Rally model, dedicated to the sportiest and most daring off-roaders, to those who love rally raids and competitions, developed and tested on fields of racing like the Erzbergrodeo. It is characterized by having the best racing-derived components: specialist and powerful off-road solutions have been adopted on the DesertX Rally.

The Ducati DesertX 2025 in standard trim remains available in the Matt Star White Silk livery only. Both versions are also offered in a 35 kW depowered version for A2 license holders.
The Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer also offers the “4Ever Ducati” guarantee*, valid for 4 years with unlimited mileage, guaranteed by the entire dealer network, on all DesertX models.

The dynamic video of the DesertX Discovery can be seen on the Ducati YouTube channel. The complete press kit and all press releases relating to the Ducati DesertX, with further information and all images of the model are available on Ducati Media House.

 

 

2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

Heated hand grips

Heated hand grips on the DesertX Discovery offer different levels of heating, so the rider can adapt to all weather.

Turn-by-Turn navigation

DesertX Discovery is equipped with Turn-by-Turn navigation, for precise and detailed directions to your every destination. The licence is valid for 5 years.

Touring windscreen

DesertX Discovery comes with a touring windscreen that reduces rider fatigue by offering aerodynamic protection from the wind and any debris, for a safer and more enjoyable riding experience.

Aluminum cases*

The aluminum cases and sub-frames are designed for off-road use. With a refined design, this robust, optional accessory perfectly combines functionality and style. *Aluminum cases are not included.

Central stand

The DesertX Discovery is equipped with a central stand so the bike can always be parked safety. This accessory facilitates any rapid repairs, offering easy access to the bike’s components.

Engine guard plate

An exclusive accessory that highlights the adventurous DesertX Discovery spirit. The engine guard plate is reinforced with a sub-frame that directs impacts onto the strongest part of the frame, for effective protection without compromising resistance.

Protective radiator grille

The DesertX Discovery is equipped with a robust radiator grille, ideal for protecting the bike from debris during off-road adventuring. It guarantees protection without compromising the bike’s cooling or design.

Bullbar

The front bullbar ensures sturdy protection for the tank and water pump, essential for safeguarding the bike in case of any accidental fall or impact during use on uneven surfaces.

 

TRAVEL COMFORT
Improved aerodynamic protection: easier and more comfortable.
Explore with ease and in comfort thanks to improved aerodynamic protection. The advanced characteristics of DesertX Discovery ensure an effortless ride, even over long distance.

OFF-ROAD
For a bike that is more than ready to take on any trip and any terrain.
Tackle less extreme off-road trails with the dedicated trim, for safe, carefree adventuring. The aluminum hand guards and additional bike protectors offer stability and reliability, so you can head off the beaten track with peace on mind.

ENGINE
All the power and reliability of the Testastretta 11°

 

ll the essentials for off-road use
Spoked wheels, 21” at the front and 18” at the rear, generous ground clearance, and various types of tyre thanks to the different homologations obtained, including those dedicated to off-roading.

 

Electronic equipment

6 riding modes, a 5” color TFT display, and full LED lights. Like all Ducatis, DesertX flaunts advanced electronic equipment to ensure safety and performance in all conditions.

Kayaba suspension

The Ducati DesertX is equipped with first-class components to ensure the best setup and real reliability off-road. The Kayaba long stroke suspension is adjustable, for comfort in every situation.

937 cc Testastretta 11° engine

The 937 cc Testastretta 11° engine with desmodromic timing and off-road tuning makes the DesertX powerful and reliable wherever it goes.

Front fork and rear mono shock

First-class components to ensure the best setup and real reliability off-road. Developed in collaboration with Kayaba.

Wide selection of tires

The DesertX is equipped with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tubeless tires that combine greater reliability and safety in case of puncture with easier repair. Thanks to the different homologations obtained, a wide selection of alternative tires is also available.

Generous 250 mm ground clearance

Fundamental when off the beaten track, DesertX offers ground clearance of 250 mm, which really comes into its own during more extreme off-road riding.

21″/18″ wheel combination

DesertX is equipped with spoked wheels, 21-inch at the front and 18′-inch at the rear, as per enduro tradition. Ready to tackle any type of obstacle and asphalt with ease.

 

Off-road chassis
A 21” front and 18” rear wheel, long stroke suspension, generous ground clearance (250mm) and an off-road frame designed and tested to withstand the toughest conditions.

Ergonomics for all conditions
A focus on ergonomics and aerodynamics makes for a motorcycle that is at home off-road and equally comfortable, easy, and safe during everyday use and when travelling.

Advanced electronics, for maximum versatility
The versatility of DesertX is also reflected in its Riding Modes, all six of them. The Enduro and Rally modes are specifically dedicated to the off-road riding experience.

Lightweight engine tuned for off-road use
DesertX is equipped with the latest evolution of the 937 cc Testastretta 11° with desmodromic timing, 2.2 lb lighter than the previous generation of engine and equipped with a new gear ratio to ensure the very est off-road performance.

TESTASTRETTA 11°
All the essentials for off-road use
Spoked wheels, 21” at the front and 18” at the rear, generous ground clearance, and various types of tyre thanks to the different homologations obtained, including those dedicated to off-roading.

A design outside of time and trends.

The aesthetic of the DesertX manages to combine the suggestion of “Dakarian” homage with a decidedly modern look and feel. This Adventure bike was designed by the Centro Stile Ducati to satisfy the criteria of essentiality and sturdiness. The designers have pushed for a minimalist aesthetic that communicates endurance, again combining form and function in the best possible way once again.

Post-heritage look

Every stylistic reference has been reinterpreted by Ducati with the aim of making the bike utterly contemporary. As well as the iconic DesertX design, there is a dedicated livery for the Discovery version.

“Robust design” guidelines

The “robust design” effect is rendered with the careful juxtaposition of wide and narrow curves, for lines that immediately transmit the sports attitude of a bike that conveys the pleasure of adventure and travel.

Digital sensations

The full LED double DRL is integrated into the windscreen, without any other visible structure, looking almost like a touch interface. Post-heritage and digital at the same time.

Functional ergonomics

The surfaces in contact with the rider and eventual passenger are expansive and well connected, allowing unhindered movement in different directions, particularly during off-road riding and touring.

 

Revel in the details
We have put the emphasis on a few key elements that enhance the technological character of the bike.

The arrangement of the front end, for example, is new and immediately impactful. The windscreen merges with the headlight.

 

ASYMMETRIC TANK DESIGN
Metal tank
The authenticity of the DesertX is underlined by the metal tank, capacious and with an off-center cap.

ROBUSTNESS
Thermal comfort and protection
We have thought about the rider’s thermal comfort by concealing air ducts behind the side protectors, while hot air from the radiator is extracted from beneath.

AERODYNAMICS
Meticulously designed volumes
A standard component, the aluminum sump guard covers most of the engine, creating visual continuity with the front end. With the DesertX Discovery, volumes are even more muscular thanks to reinforced aluminum guards to protect the engine, tank and water pump.

Electronic riding aid systems
Many of the electronic systems that are now standard on motorbikes in the various segments were pioneered by Ducati, which over the years has earned a place among the most advanced companies in the sector. Safety, comfort and performance improved year after year thanks to the continuous improvement and search for innovation.

 

 

 

 

2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $19,995 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $23,095 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: from £17,295 GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

Type

Ducati Testastretta 11°, L-Twin cylinders, Desmodromic valvetrain, 4 valves per cylinder, liquid cooled

Displacement

937 cc

Bore x Stroke

94 x 67.5 mm

Compression Ratio

13.3:1

Power

110 hp (81 kW) @ 9,250 rpm

Torque

68 lb-ft (92 Nm, 9.4 kgm) @ 6,500 rpm

Fuel Injection

Bosch electronic fuel injection system, Ø53 mm throttle bodies with ride-by-wire system

Exhaust

Stainless steel single mufler, catalytic converter and 2 lambda probes

Gearbox

6 speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down

Primary drive

Straight cut gears, ratio 1.85 : 1

Ratio

1=38/14, 2=31/17, 3=28/20, 4=26/22, 5=24/23, 6=23/24

Final drive

Chain, front sprocket Z15, rear sprocket Z49

Clutch

Slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch with hydraulic control

Frame

Tubular steel trellis frame

Front suspension

KYB Ø 46 mm upside-down fork, fully adjustable

Front Wheel

Cross-spoked, tubeless, 2.15’’x21’’

Front Tire

Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR 90/90 – 21 M/C 54V M+S TL (A)

Rear suspension

KYB monoshock, fully adjustable, remote preload adjustment, aluminum double-sided swingarm

Rear Wheel

Cross-spoked, tubeless, 4.5’’x18’’

Rear Tire

Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR 150/70 R18 M/C 70V M+S TL

Wheel Travel (Front/Rear)

9.06 in (230 mm) – 8.66 in (220 mm)

Front Brake

2 x Ø 320 mm aluminum flange semi-floating discs, Radial mount Brembo monobloc 4-pistons calipers, Bosch Cornering ABS

Rear Brake

Ø 265 mm disc, Brembo floating 2 pistons caliper, Bosch Cornering ABS

Instrumentation

5’’ TFT color display

Wet weight no fuel

463 lb (210 kg)
(Without the Discovery equipment)

Seat Height

34.4 in (875 mm)
35.0 in (890 mm) with high seat accessory
34.1 in (865 mm) with low seat accessory
33.3 in (845 mm) with low seat + low suspension kit accessory

Wheelbase

63.3 in (1608 mm)

Rake

27.6°

Trail

4.8 in (122 mm)

Fuel Tank Capacity

5.54 US gal (21 l)

Number of Seats

2

Safety Equipment

Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control

Standard Equipment

Riding Modes, Power Modes, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), Engine Brake Control (EBC), Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS), Cruise control, full LED lighting system, DRL, Ducati brake light (DBL), USB power socket, 12V socket, self canceling turn indicators, Steering damper, Li-on battery;
Discovery equipment: Ducati Multimedia System (DMS), Turn by turn navigation via app, central stand, engine cover in steel tubes, water pump protection, protection grid for water radiator, heated grips, engine guard plate, reinforced handguards, touring windscreen

Ready for

Antitheft system, fog lights, auxiliary fuel tank

Warranty

24 months, unlimited mileage

Maintenance Service Intervals

9,000 miles (15,000 km) / 24 months

Valve Clearance Check

18,000 miles (30,000 km)

Notes

Bike specifications and equipment may vary from market to market. Please refer to your local dealer for further information

 

 

 

2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details

Type

Ducati Testastretta 11°, L-Twin cylinders, Desmodromic valvetrain, 4 valves per cylinder, liquid cooled

Displacement

937 cc

Bore x Stroke

94 x 67.5 mm

Compression Ratio

13.3:1

Power

110 hp (81 kW) @ 9,250 rpm

Torque

92 Nm (68 lb-ft, 9.4 kgm) @ 6,500 rpm

Fuel Injection

Bosch electronic fuel injection system, Ø53 mm throttle bodies with ride-by-wire system

Exhaust

Stainless steel single mufler, catalytic converter and 2 lambda probes

Gearbox

6 speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down

Primary drive

Straight cut gears, ratio 1.85 : 1

Ratio

1=38/14, 2=31/17, 3=28/20, 4=26/22, 5=24/23, 6=23/24

Final drive

Chain, front sprocket Z15, rear sprocket Z49

Clutch

Slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch with hydraulic control

Frame

Tubular steel trellis frame

Front suspension

KYB Ø 46 mm upside-down fork, fully adjustable

Front Wheel

Cross-spoked, tubeless, 2.15’’x21’’

Front Tire

Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR 90/90 – 21 M/C 54V M+S TL (A)

Rear suspension

KYB monoshock, fully adjustable, remote preload adjustment, aluminum double-sided swingarm

Rear Wheel

Cross-spoked, tubeless, 4.5’’x18’’

Rear Tire

Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR 150/70 R18 M/C 70V M+S TL

Wheel Travel (Front/Rear)

230 mm (9.06 in) – 220 mm (8.66 in)

Front Brake

2 x Ø 320 mm aluminum flange semi-floating discs, Radial mount Brembo monobloc 4-pistons calipers, Bosch Cornering ABS

Rear Brake

Ø 265 mm disc, Brembo floating 2 pistons caliper, Bosch Cornering ABS

Instrumentation

5’’ TFT color display

Wet weight no fuel

210 kg (463 lb)
(Without the Discovery equipment)

Seat Height

875 mm (34.4 in)
890 mm (35.0 in) with high seat accessory
865 mm (34.1 in) with low seat accessory
845 mm (33.3 in) with low seat + low suspension kit accessory

Wheelbase

1608 mm (63.3 in)

Rake

27.6°

Trail

122 mm (4.8 in)

Fuel Tank Capacity

21 l (5.54 US gal)

Number of Seats

2

Safety Equipment

Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control

Standard Equipment

Riding Modes, Power Modes, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), Engine Brake Control (EBC), Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS), Cruise control, full LED lighting system, DRL, Ducati brake light (DBL), USB power socket, 12V socket, self canceling turn indicators, Steering damper, Li-on battery;
Discovery equipment: Ducati Multimedia System (DMS), Turn by turn navigation via app, central stand, engine cover in steel tubes, water pump protection, protection grid for water radiator, heated grips, engine guard plate, reinforced handguards, touring windscreen

Ready for

Antitheft system, fog lights, auxiliary fuel tank

Warranty

24 months, unlimited mileage

Maintenance Service Intervals

15,000 km (9,000 miles) / 24 months

Valve Clearance Check

30,000 km (18,000 miles)

Notes

Bike specifications and equipment may vary from market to market. Please refer to your local dealer for further information

 

 

 

2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details

Type

Ducati Testastretta 11°, L-Twin cylinders, Desmodromic valvetrain, 4 valves per cylinder, liquid cooled

Displacement

937 cc

Bore x Stroke

94 x 67.5 mm

Compression Ratio

13.3:1

Power

110 hp (81 kW) @ 9,250 rpm

Torque

92 Nm (68 lb-ft, 9.4 kgm) @ 6,500 rpm

Fuel Injection

Bosch electronic fuel injection system, Ø53 mm throttle bodies with ride-by-wire system

Exhaust

Stainless steel single mufler, catalytic converter and 2 lambda probes

Gearbox

6 speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down

Primary drive

Straight cut gears, ratio 1.85 : 1

Ratio

1=38/14, 2=31/17, 3=28/20, 4=26/22, 5=24/23, 6=23/24

Final drive

Chain, front sprocket Z15, rear sprocket Z49

Clutch

Slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch with hydraulic control

Frame

Tubular steel trellis frame

Front suspension

KYB Ø 46 mm upside-down fork, fully adjustable

Front Wheel

Cross-spoked, tubeless, 2.15’’x21’’

Front Tyre

Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR 90/90 – 21 M/C 54V M+S TL (A)

Rear suspension

KYB monoshock, fully adjustable, remote preload adjustment, aluminium double-sided swingarm

Rear Wheel

Cross-spoked, tubeless, 4.5’’x18’’

Rear Tyre

Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR 150/70 R18 M/C 70V M+S TL

Wheel Travel (Front/Rear)

230 mm (9.06 in) – 220 mm (8.66 in)

Front Brake

2 x Ø 320 mm aluminium flange semi-floating discs, Radial mount Brembo monobloc 4-pistons calipers, Bosch Cornering ABS

Rear Brake

Ø 265 mm disc, Brembo floating 2 pistons caliper, Bosch Cornering ABS

Instrumentation

5’’ TFT colour display

Wet weight no fuel

210 kg (463 lb)
(Without the Discovery equipment)

Seat Height

875 mm (34.4 in)
890 mm (35.0 in) with high seat accessory
865 mm (34.1 in) with low seat accessory
845 mm (33.3 in) with low seat + low suspension kit accessory

Wheelbase

1608 mm (63.3 in)

Rake

27,6°

Trail

122 mm (4.8 in)

Fuel Tank Capacity

21 l (5.54 US gal)

Number of Seats

2

Safety Equipment

Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control

Standard Equipment

Riding Modes, Power Modes, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), Engine Brake Control (EBC), Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS), Cruise control, full LED lighting system, DRL, Ducati brake light (DBL), USB power socket, 12V socket, self cancelling turn indicators, Steering damper, Li-on battery;
Discovery equipment: Ducati Multimedia System (DMS), Turn by turn navigation via app, central stand, engine cover in steel tubes, water pump protection, protection grid for water radiator, heated grips, engine guard plate, reinforced handguards, aluminium side panniers, touring windscreen

Ready for

Antitheft system, fog lights, auxiliary fuel tank

Warranty

48 months, unlimited mileage

Maintenance Service Intervals

15,000 km (9,000 miles) / 24 months

Valve Clearance Check

30,000 km (18,000 miles)

Standard

Euro 5

CO2 Emissions

133 g/km

Consumption

5.6 l/100 km

 

 

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).

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