UP CLOSE: DUCATI’S 2026 DESERTX

When Ducati Product Specialist, Nick Selleck, physically clapped eyes on the new-generation 2026 DesertX for the first time, he couldn’t help but spill the beans about what wasn’t in the bike’s brochure!

As you may have heard, Ducati is celebrating its centenary this year. So, when it comes to launching new motorcycle models in 2026, the Italian manufacturer wasn’t about to squander the marketing opportunity.

And we’re not just talking about the drool-worthy road-going weapons that Ducati is best known for. Those who like to leave the tarmac behind will be excited that this year will also see the arrival of Ducati’s all-new Desmo450 Enduro models, a significantly updated Multistrada V4 Rally and the much-anticipated second-generation DesertX – a machine that gets a new frame, new bodywork, big suspension upgrades AND Ducati’s much lighter 890cc V2 engine that already powers the Panigale, Multistrada, Streetfighter and Monster models. All of which, on paper, makes the 2026 DesertX a tantalising prospect for anyone who’s even half interested in adventure bikes. 

But what does this totally overhauled DesertX look like in the flesh? How different does its cockpit feel? What wasn’t mentioned in Ducati’s PR about the 2026 model’s upgrades? And have the design and/or component shortcomings of the first-gen DesertX been addressed?

Like the rest of us, Maschine’s Nick Selleck was itching to get answers to these questions and more. So, when the Ducati Product Specialist bumped into a 2026 DesertX that was on display at a recent round of the MotoGP in Texas, USA, he couldn’t help but whip his camera out and spill the beans about what jumped out at him.

The 2026 DesertX is not due to arrive in Australian dealerships until around August this year. But as Ducati Australia is planning to unveil the new DesertX in the flesh (along with a bunch of their other all-new 2026 models) to the media and Ducati dealers in the coming weeks, stay tuned for what comes out of our own up-close-and-personal inspection of the machine.