Ducati unveils the DesertX Rally — an even more extreme off-roader
Ducati has introduced the 2024 DesertX Rally, which expands the off-road capabilities of the DesertX range. The improvements concentrate on critical components, particularly the suspension and wheels, which are critical for serious enduro adventures.
Ducati DesertX Rally styling and chassis
The 2024 Ducati DesertX Rally gets a redesigned high front mudguard with an adjusted split brake line setup, machined fork clamps, adjustable brake and shift pedals, and a unique Iron Giant livery designed specifically for this motorcycle. The motorcycle features a suspension system that is derived from professional cross and enduro bike technologies. Its front suspension is comprised of a pair of 48mm KYB closed cartridge forks with adjustable compression and rebound, resulting in a 20 mm increase in wheel travel to a total of 250 mm. Furthermore, the fork tubes have Kashima coating, and the sliders have DLC surface treatment. An aluminium swingarm with a different attachment point pairs with an adjustable shock absorber with a larger piston at the rear, providing an additional 20 mm of rear wheel travel for a total of 240 mm. An adjustable Ohlins steering damper is now directly attached to the handlebar. The DesertX Rally's ground clearance has been increased by 30mm to 280mm. The bike's off-road capabilities are further enhanced by wheels with solid machined hubs, carbon steel spokes, and Takasago Excel rims with inner tubes. Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR is available as original equipment for all-terrain riding, Scorpion Rally for off-road use, and Scorpion Trail II for asphalt. Despite these upgrades and increased suspension size, the DesertX Rally's dry weight is only 1kg higher than the standard model.
Ducati DesertX Rally powertrain
The Ducati DesertX Rally is powered by the same 937cc Ducati Testastretta 11° twin-cylinder engine with desmodromic distribution that powers the standard model, producing 108bhp at 9250rpm and 92Nm of torque at 6500rpm. The motorcycle has six riding modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, and Rally), each with cornering ABS, traction control, and wheelie control that have been recalibrated to fit the new chassis and improve off-road performance.
Ducati DesertX Rally features and accessories
The Ducati DesertX Rally has a 5-inch colour TFT display that is oriented vertically for clear visibility even while standing. This display integrates seamlessly with the Ducati Multimedia System, allowing smartphone connectivity for functions such as music control, call management, and optional turn-by-turn navigation with on-screen directions. In addition, the bike includes a utility bar for mounting a satellite navigation system. An additional 8-litre tank can be installed, increasing the range by nearly 40 per cent. Aluminium side cases can be added, providing a total load capacity of nearly 120 litres when combined with the top case. LED spotlights and heated grips are available as optional accessories. Steel tube engine guards protect the tank and engine during off-road use. A Termignoni racing exhaust can boost power and torque by 7 per cent.
Ducati DesertX Rally India launch
Ducati has stated that the DesertX Rally will be available in overseas dealerships beginning in January 2024. Ducati hasn’t confirmed if it will launch in India yet.
