2022 Ducati DesertX | First Look Review
Middleweight adventure bikes are hot right now, and Ducati is the latest manufacturer to embrace the trend. Powered by a 110-horsepower version of the 937cc Testastretta L-Twin from the Multistrada V2 in a 492-pound package, the rally-styled 2022 Ducati DesertX is designed for aggressive off-road riding.
Featuring Ducati’s signature desmodromic valvetrain, the DesertX’s liquid-cooled, 937cc Testastretta 11° L-Twin makes 68 lb-ft of torque and benefits from the same updates seen on the Monster and Multistrada V2, including a lightweight clutch, smoother shift actuation, and a 3.7-pound weight reduction versus the previous-gen engine.
The 6-speed transmission has been optimized for off-road riding, with shorter ratios for gears 1st-5th. Especially short are 1st and 2nd gears for use in technical terrain, while 6th gear remains tall for smooth operation and lower fuel consumption at highway speeds
Equipped with throttle-by-wire and an IMU, the DesertX offers four power modes (Full, High, Medium, and Low) and six ride modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro, and Rally). Each ride mode alters engine output, throttle response, and electronic rider aids, including engine braking, traction control, cornering ABS, wheelie control, and an up/down quickshifter.
The DesertX has a tubular-steel trellis frame, fully adjustable Kayaba suspension with 9.1/8.7 inches of front/rear travel, and 9.8 inches of ground clearance. Brembo M50 monoblock front calipers pinch 320mm discs, and a Brembo 2-piston rear caliper pinches a 265mm disc.
To meet the demands of off-road riding, the DesertX is equipped with spoked tubeless wheels, with a 21-inch front and 18-inch rear, and they’re shod with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR adventure tires.
Fuel capacity is 5.5 gallons. A unique feature of the DesertX, available as an accessory, is an auxiliary 2.1-gallon tank incorporated into the tail section of the bike, which would raise total fuel capacity to 7.6 gallons.
Other features include a 5-inch color TFT display with Standard and Rally info modes, and as an option it can be connected to the Ducati Multimedia System via Bluetooth and a smartphone. All lighting is LED, including a daytime running light and a brake light that flashes during sudden braking.
The 2022 Ducati DesertX will be available only in Star White Silk with special graphics. Pricing and availability are TBD.
2022 Ducati DesertX Specs
Base Price: TBD
Website: ducati.com
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled, transverse 90-degree L-Twin, desmodromic DOHC w/ 4 valves per cyl.
Displacement: 937cc
Bore x Stroke: 94.0 x 67.5mm
Horsepower: 110 hp @ 9,250 rpm
Torque: 68 lb-ft @ 6,500 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed, hydraulically actuated slip/assist wet clutch
Final Drive: Chain
Wheelbase: 63.3 in.
Rake/Trail: 27.6 degrees/4.8 in.
Seat Height: 34.4 in.
Wet Weight: 492 lbs. (claimed)
Fuel Capacity: 5.5 gals.
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