Review – Key Features – Features & Benefits – Specifications
2027 Ducati Desmo450 SM: EFFICIENCY AND PERFORMANCE.
Introducing the new 2027 Ducati Desmo450 SM…
Supermoto performance by Ducati.
The first competition-only Ducati Supermoto bike. Light, precise, and intuitive, the Desmo450 SM combines the unique character of the Desmo engine with a chassis and electronics package designed to allow every rider to push to the max, right from the very first laps. It comes standard with Metzeler Racetec SM, track-only tires, the same used in the Supermoto 1 World Championship. Benchmark performance, immediate confidence, and Ducati racing DNA converge in a bike ready for competition.
The Desmo450 SM integrates components designed for Supermoto competition.
Extended rev range. Race-ready performance.
With the extended rev range of the Desmo450, the Desmo450 SM allows each gear to be held for longer for maximum efficiency between one turn and the next. Easy to interpret thanks to electronics derived from Ducati experience on the racetrack, the Desmo450 SM is designed to unleash its full potential lap after lap.
2027 Ducati Desmo450 SM Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- Colors
- Ducati Red
- Main Standard Features
- Desmo450 single-cylinder engine, 449.6 cc
- Maximum power of 63.5 hp at 9,400 rpm, Maximum torque of 39.5 ft-lb at 7,500 rpm
- Twin-spar Aluminum frame
- 9 US gal (7.2 l) fuel tank
- Showa 49 mm upside-down closed cartridge forks, fully adjustable, 280 mm travel and Kashima Coating on the outer tubes
- Showa fully adjustable monoshock
- Cast aluminium swingarm
- Brembo braking system with PR15x19 radial master cylinder and radial Stylema caliper on the front wheel. Single Galfer discs, 310 mm (front) and 240 mm (rear)
- Aluminium Takasago Excel rims with Bartubeless system, 16,5” x 3.5” e 17” x 5”
- Metzeler Racetec SM 125/75 R16.5 and 165/55 R17 slick tyres
- DID transmission chain
- 2 Riding Mode
- Riding Mode configurable via the accessory X-Link app
- New generation electronics package with Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Launch Control, Quick Shift, and Engine Brake Control
- Piston replacement every 45 hours
- Valve clearance check every 45 hours
- Ducati Desmo450 SM: the first racing supermoto from Borgo Panigale
- The Desmo450 SM, the only bike in its class to feature Desmodromic valve timing, is a bike built for competition thanks to specific developments to the suspension, braking system, clutch and electronics
- For the first time on a production Supermotard, the suspension settings have been developed directly by Showa to provide support under braking, precision when entering corners and control in the various conditions typical of the discipline
- The chassis, power delivery and electronics work together to offer confidence to amateur riders and effectiveness to more experienced riders
- The Ducati Desmo450 SM will arrive at selected European dealerships starting from December, 2026
2027 Ducati Desmo450 SM Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
Advanced, performance-oriented electronics
Complete with Ducati Traction Control that is Supermotard-specific, Engine Brake Control, Power Launch, Quick Shift and two configurable Riding Modes, the Desmo450 SM allows the rider to precisely adapt the bike’s response to their needs. The Wi-Fi module available as an accessory further extends the vehicle customization and monitoring options via smartphone.
Supermoto Design
The Desmo450 SM integrates specific components designed for competition use. The short front mudguard, dedicated fork protections and closed handguards do not just define its distinctive style but contribute to creating a bike designed to meet the demands of competition.
Aluminum frame
The aluminum frame of the Desmo450 SM adopts an innovative construction with the minimum number of weld joints, developed to combine lightness, strength and precision. A solution derived from the Ducati Off-Road platform that contributes to the bike’s handling and the rider’s confidence during every riding phase.
Showa premium suspension
Developed together with the Showa Road and Off-Road teams, Desmo450 SM suspension combines precision, lightness and response. The Ø 49 mm front fork and rear shock with progressive linkage ensure support under braking, stability when cornering and traction out of the turn. This makes for an intuitive and efficient bike that is ready to unleash its full potential on track.
Desmo450 Engine
The Desmo450 SM is equipped with the 449.6 cc Desmo450 single-cylinder engine, designed to reach high engine speeds thanks to desmodromic timing and a limiter fixed at 11,900 rpm. Direct valve control ensures more precise management compared to traditional spring systems, reducing friction at low revs and allowing the engine to reach higher rpm. The result is greater efficiency out of the turns and the possibility to hold each gear for longer.
Suter anti-hop clutch
Developed specifically for Supermoto use, it contributes to improving efficiency on track while also reducing physical effort for the rider. Precise engine brake management heightens stability under hard braking and precision into the corners, as well as maximizing speed out of the turns. Easy, intuitive adjustment means that its behavior can be adapted to the track conditions and rider’s particular riding style.
Metzeler Racetec SM tires
The Desmo450 SM mounts Metzeler Racetec SM, track-only tires, the same used in the Supermoto 1 World Championship. A Racetec SM K2 125/75 R420 ensures better support at the front, while a Racetec SM K1 165/55 R17 guarantees maximum grip at the rear.
The Desmo450 SM is the first racing supermoto from the Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer. Unveiled during World Ducati Week, it derives from the Desmo450 MX, a technical platform that immediately proved competitive in Supermoto races, with multiple world champion Marc Reiner Schmidt and Team Undici leading it to victory on its world debut. The Desmo450 SM is built on the Desmo450 MX platform, which has been further developed specifically for Supermoto racing. The suspension, triple clamps, wheels, braking system, final drive ratio, slipper clutch and electronics have all been fine-tuned to work in unison, delivering precision, control and performance on Supermoto circuits.
The Desmo450 SM is built to compete and brings together in a single package all the solutions developed by Ducati specifically for Supermoto. The result is a bike that is equally effective for both professional and amateur riders. A bike which, thanks to its engine power delivery, chassis and innovative electronics, can deliver high performance with minimal physical effort – a combination designed to promote consistency, efficiency and lap times.
The suspension played a central role in the development of the Desmo450 SM; for the first time in a supermoto, Showa stepped in directly to ensure the balance required by the discipline. The sealed cartridge upside-down 49 mm fork is fully adjustable for compression and rebound and features dedicated springs and settings, a travel of 280 mm and Kashima Coating on the stanchions. The left-hand side features a radial brake caliper mount, whilst the billet-machined steering plates have an extended centre distance to provide sufficient clearance for the front wheel.
The result is a front end that guarantees support during the most intense braking manoeuvres, precision when entering corners and confidence on the road, whilst remaining effective even on off-road sections. At the rear, the fully adjustable Showa shock works with a progressive link and offers 295 mm of wheel travel; thanks to its specific settings, it contributes to the bike’s traction and balance throughout the various stages of riding.
The hand guards and shortened mudguard have been redesigned to suit the discipline, and the fork guards are shorter, leaving more space for the 125/75 front slick tyre, which is standard for supermoto. The rims are 16.5” at the front and 17” at the rear, featuring an Excel rim profile and the Bartubeless system, which, by eliminating inner tubes, reduces rotating and unsprung mass by 1.2 kg, improving handling and suspension behaviour. The factory-fitted tyres are Metzeler Racetec Slick SMs, the same as those used in the World Championship.
The braking system has been developed to ensure power and modulation in conditions typical of Supermoto riding. At the front, it features a Brembo Stylema radial caliper and a 310 mm Galfer floating disc with an aluminium flange. At the rear, there is a 240 mm Galfer disc with a Brembo floating caliper.
The lightweight aluminium frame is the same as that used on the motocross bike and has been designed to minimise the number of welds, in order to optimise weight, stiffness and strength, and to create the straightest possible intake duct to ensure the engine breathes as efficiently as possible.
The Desmodromic valve train allows the rev limiter to be set at 11,900 rpm, offering a wide operating range that enables the rider to stay in each gear for longer and reduce unnecessary gear changes.
The transmission, equipped with active Quick Shift for upshifts, features a Suter slipper clutch specifically calibrated for the Desmo450 SM, which assists the rider in managing ‘side-slip’ when entering corners.
The Desmo450 SM introduces a patented Ducati Traction Control system to the segment, specifically calibrated for Supermoto and capable of estimating the actual slip of the rear wheel. Adjustable across four levels and capable of being deactivated, the system intervenes on engine parameters to improve traction and stability in conditions of variable grip.
The electronic features also include Launch Control and Engine Brake Control, which, like the DTC, can be configured to different levels of intervention and linked to two Riding Modes that the rider can adapt to their own needs and the characteristics of the track via the X-Link app.
Maintenance intervals
The maintenance intervals are standard for this category: piston replacement and valve clearance checks are scheduled at 45 hours, whilst a full engine overhaul is scheduled at 90 hours and an oil change every 15 hours. Furthermore, to make servicing quicker and easier, the seals on all covers (alternator, clutch, cylinder head) are not made with three-component paste but instead use metal gaskets for the cylinder head and rubber gaskets for the other two.
The Desmo450 SM introduces the concept of predictive maintenance, developed to monitor wear on engine components and assess the stress they are under based on usage. Thanks to the Com-Link module, available as an accessory, it is possible to manage routine maintenance intervals with greater precision and maintain efficiency and performance over time.
Availability
The Desmo450 SM will arrive at selected European dealerships from December 2026, followed by the rest of the world.
Desmo450: the extra revs that make the difference.
The Desmo450 SM advantage results from the Desmo450. Thanks to desmodromic timing, the engine reaches higher engine speeds and offers a benchmark rev range for the category, allowing each gear to be held for longer. Fewer gear changes, more consistent operation, and improved lap performance. A light, high-performance single cylinder, designed to deliver its full potential on track.
The Desmo advantage
The Desmo450 SM engine is a 449.6 cc four-stroke single-cylinder with desmodromic system, chain-driven four-valve DOHC, and magnesium alternator, head and clutch covers. Thanks to desmodromic timing, the Desmo450 engine can achieve 11,900 rpm, ensuring greater acceleration and more efficient drive off the line. Without the spring of traditional timing systems, the desmodromic system allows for greater control and reduces friction loss, maximizing race performance. More revs, more power, and more chance to grab the holeshot.
A wide torque curve to be exploited at all engine speeds
The Desmo450 offers a wide, well-distributed torque curve to ensure drive is always available, even at low rpm. This means greater traction out of the turns and less fatigue for the rider. Desmodromic timing reduces mechanical losses and affords the management of greater valve acceleration, allowing for higher engine speeds than traditional systems. This results in a torque curve that is wider and more sustained, designed to offer effective performance during every riding phase.
Four-valve DOHC
The Desmo450 uses a DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) configuration with four valves for optimum air flow and combustion management. This guarantees an immediate throttle response and more efficient combustion, improving power delivery at all engine speeds. Power is managed by a Mikuni 44 mm throttle body, designed for a precise, direct response, while the steel and aluminium exhaust system with resonator guarantees maximum performance, while conforming with 2025 FIM/FMI international racing regulations (109dB + tolerance of 2 dB).
Desmodromic timing: efficiency and reliability
The bore and stroke measurements are, respectively, 96 x 62.1 mm, selected to achieve the ideal valve diameter. The intake valves are in titanium and have a diameter of 40 mm, while the 33 mm exhaust valves are in hollow-stemmed steel and filled with sodium to improve heat exchange. The chain tensioner is hydraulic, to offer more precise and consistent action over time with respect to a conventional mechanical system.
Timing chain with hydraulic tensioner
The Desmo450 timing system adopts a hydraulic chain tensioner, designed to ensure the right tension in all conditions of use. This solution contributes to the precision of the desmodromic system, ensuring reliability and consistent action even at higher rpm.
High-performance architecture
Thanks to a superquadra architecture, the Desmo450 contributes to the engine’s rapid response and its ability to achieve speeds of up to 11,900 rpm.
Track-optimized transmission
The 5-speed transmission is developed to make the most of the wide operating range of the Desmo450. Thanks to the engine’s extended rev range, each gear can be held for longer, reducing the need to shift and retaining maximum efficiency from one corner to the next. A solution designed to ensure consistent performance and continuous delivery.
Service intervals
The service intervals set a benchmark for the category. Piston replacement and the valve clearance check are set at 45 hours, while a full engine service is to be carried out at 90 hours and an oil change every 15 hours. To make maintenance operations quicker and easier, the covers (alternator, clutch, head) do not use tricomponent putty as a seal but rather a gasket, in metal for the head and in rubber for the alternator and clutch. With the Com-Link module available as an accessory, the user can customize service intervals based on actual bike usage.
Race-ready chassis
Intuitive, natural riding is guaranteed thanks to the lightweight chassis of the Desmo450 SM, designed to offer control and confidence right from initial acceleration. Developed to inspire confidence in amateur riders while delivering the precision and support professionals require as they seek the limit, the Ducati Supermoto unleashes its potential turn after turn.
Showa premium suspension
In developing the suspension of the Desmo450 SM, Ducati worked together with the Showa Road and Off-Road teams to ensure a specific setup for Supermoto use. The Ø 49 mm front fork, adjustable for compression and rebound, ensures precision and control. A light, high-performance system designed to deliver reliability and efficiency in all riding conditions.
Brembo braking system and Galfer discs
The Desmo450 SM braking system is entrusted to Brembo and developed to offer power, precision and modulation in every riding phase. At the front, the 15/19 radial master cylinder works together with a Stylema radial caliper and 310 mm [MR1] Galfer floating disc with aluminum flange. At the rear, a single-piston floating caliper is paired with a 240 mm Galfer wave disc, completing a system designed to ensure efficiency and control. The hydraulic clutch system, with dedicated master cylinder and actuator, ensures a precise and continuous action.
Metzeler Racetec SM tires and Excel rims
The Desmo450 SM mounts Metzeler Racetec SM tires, the same used in the Supermoto S1 World Championship. Compounds are selected to meet the specific needs of Supermoto riding: K2 at the front, to ensure greater support thanks to a stiffer carcass, and K1 at the rear, to maximize grip, particularly on corner exit. The wheels, measuring 16.5” at the front and 17” at the rear, adopt Excel rims and the Bartubeless system, a solution that helps contain weight to the benefit of handling and speed when changing direction.
Lightweight, resistant frame for racing
Formed of just 11 elements, the aluminim frame minimizes the number of weld joints to obtain the right balance of stiffness, lightness and reliability. A solution that contributes to the bike’s handling and the rider’s confidence during every phase of riding.
Ergonomics
Less is More.
Compact, lightweight and essential. The frame of the Desmo450 SM comprises only 11 elements and is the result of a design philosophy that aims to reduce the number of weld joints. A solution developed to optimize weight, stiffness and strength, offering the rider maximum freedom of movement and immediate feeling in the saddle.
Adjustable handlebar position
The Desmo450 SM handlebar can be mounted in four different positions so that the rider can customize the bike’s ergonomics to obtain the best possible riding feeling.
Surfaces designed for control
The surfaces of the Desmo450 SM are designed to facilitate rider movement during every riding phase. The high-grip texture ensures effective contact with the inner thigh and boots, for greater rider stability during acceleration, rapid change of direction, and jumps.
Design
Race-inspired design.
Every element of the Desmo450 SM aims to emphasise the bike’s Supermotard character. Dedicated fairings, a short front mudguard and surfaces designed to facilitate rider movement make for a compact, functional design that is developed around the needs of track riding.
Shaped for efficiency
The Desmo450 SM adopts components developed specifically for Supermotard use. The short front mudguard reduces the sail effect at high speeds, while dedicated fork protections and closed hand guards in structural plastic combine lightness, strength and protection. Solutions designed to respond to the needs of racing and heighten the bike’s efficiency on track.
Ergonomics designed to help you move faster
The forms of the side panels and lateral number plates are designed to facilitate rider movement and ensure more natural contact with the bike. Every surface aims to support the body’s movements during braking, turn-in and cornering, heightening the sense of control and confidence that characterizes the Desmo450 SM.
Electronics that transform confidence into speed.
The Desmo450 SM integrates an advanced electronics package designed to maximize control and performance on track. Ducati Traction Control specific to Supermoto use, Engine Brake Control, Power Launch and dedicated riding modes allow the rider to precisely adjust bike behavior to the riding conditions.
Customizable Riding Modes
The two standard Riding Modes allow the user to adapt behaviour of the Desmo450 SM to the conditions of use. With the Wi-Fi module and X-Link app, the rider can customize control intervention levels, save configurations, and recall those configurations when necessary, to ensure the ideal setup for every track and riding style.
Race electronics
Derived from Ducati race experience and designed to support the rider during every riding phase, the electronics on the Desmo450 SM allow bike behaviour to be adapted to suit track conditions and personal preference, maximizing control, efficiency and performance.
Throttle Response
The throttle response can be configured with two dedicated maps. The Smooth setting offers a smoother, more controlled response, while the Dynamic setting promises a more direct delivery, immediate response to fully exploit the potential of the Desmo450.
Ducati Traction Control (DTC)
Developed specifically for Supermoto use, Ducati Traction Control uses advanced logic that is able to estimate effective rear wheel slip, in order to optimize traction, stability and performance even under the most variable grip conditions.
Engine Brake Control (EBC)
The Engine Brake Control is designed to optimise vehicle stability during corner entry, managing the effect of the engine brake during intense deceleration. The system can be adjusted according to two levels, allowing the rider to adapt behaviour to suit their needs.
Quick Shift (DQS)
Quick Shift allows the rider to upshift without using the clutch, for quicker, smoother gear shifting. A solution that helps maintain continuous acceleration and allows the rider to hold each gear for longer.
Ducati Launch Control (DLC)
The Launch Control system, which can be set according to three intervention levels, acts on the rev limiter to help the rider best exploit the engine power at the start. Levels 1 and 2 indicate less invasive intervention, while level 3 ensures more stable and controllable behaviour off the line. The system automatically deactivates on reaching fourth gear or when the throttle is released.
Immediate switch unit control
The Riding Modes are managed via the dedicated switch unit on the left side of the handlebar. From here, the rider can select a Riding Mode, activate or deactivate Ducati Traction Control and Quick Shift, and manage Power Launch. The five integrated LEDs provide an instant indication of the electronic control settings and Wi-Fi connection status.
New predictive maintenance
The Desmo450 SM introduces the concept of predictive maintenance, developed to monitor the wear of engine components and assess stress based on actual usage. With the Com-Link module available as an accessory, the system can adjust service intervals to the actual conditions of engine use.
X-Link app
With the Com-Link Wi-Fi module, the Desmo450 SM can be connected to a smartphone via the X-Link app, giving the rider direct access to the main configuration and monitoring functions. The rider can use the app to customize the riding modes, view the bike’s status and check servicing details, for more complete and immediate management before and after each track session.
2027 Ducati Desmo450 SM – Totalmotorcycle.com Specifications and Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ See Dealer USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ See Dealer CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
Type
Desmo450, single cylinder, Desmodromic timing system 4 valves DOHC, hydraulic tensioner, semi dry sump, liquid cooled
Displacement
449.6 cc (27.4 cu in)
Bore x Stroke
96 mm x 62.1 mm (3.8 in x 2.4 in)
Compression Ratio
13.5:1
Power
63.5 hp (46.7 kW) @ 9,400 rpm
Torque
39 lb-ft (53.5 Nm, 5.5 kgm) @ 7,500 rpm
Fuel Injection
Keihin injector, Mikuni throttle body Ø 44 mm
Exhaust
Steel muffler with aluminum outer sleeve, steel header with resonator
Gearbox
5 gears with Quick Shift only up
Primary drive
Straight cut gears; Ratio 2.45:1
Ratio
1=31/15, 2=30/18, 3=28/20, 4=26/22, 5=24/24
Final drive
Chain DID DMS 520, Front sprocket Z15, Rear aluminum sprocket Z47
Clutch
Suter slipper clutch. Brembo hydraulic control
Frame
Aluminum welded, with cast, forged and extruded parts
Front suspension
Showa upside down front fork Ø 49 mm fully adjustable .Outer tube with kashima coating
Front Wheel
Spoked tubeless wheel, Takasago Excel rim 3.5 ” x 16.5”. BarTubeless system**.
Front Tire
Racetec SM K2 125/75R420
Rear suspension
Showa mono shock, fully adjustable
Rear Wheel
Spoked tubeless wheel, Takasago Excel rim 5,0 ” x 17”. BarTubeless system.
Rear Tire
Racetec SM K1 165/55R17
Wheel Travel (Front/Rear)
280 mm / 295 mm (11 in / 11.6 in)
Front Brake
Galfer Ø 310 mm single floating disc with aluminum flange, Brembo Stylema radial caliper
Rear Brake
Galfer Ø 240 mm single disc, Brembo 1-piston floating caliper
Instrumentation
LCD Dashboard
Wet weight no fuel
240 lb (109 kg)
Seat Height
36.6 in (930 mm)
Wheelbase
58.4 in (1,483 mm)
Rake
25.4°
Trail
3.3 in (85 mm)
Fuel Tank Capacity
1.9 US gal (7.2 l)
Number of Seats
1
Safety Equipment
Riding Modes, Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Engine Brake Control (EBC), Ducati Fall Detection
Standard Equipment
Quick shift up, Lithium-ion battery, Power Launch, Hourmeter, Map selector
Ready for
Wifi module and X-Link App
Warranty
Ducati Conventional Warranty: 3 months or 20 hours of use
Notes
Please check with your dealer product availability
*Bike specifications and equipment may vary from market to market. Please refer to your local dealer for further information
**The 16.5-inch front rim is a dedicated supermoto racing wheel designed for track use with 16.5-inch track tires. It is not compatible with standard 17-inch motorcycle tires. There are no DOT-approved 16.5-inch front tires.
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
