Ducati DESMO450 EDS

The Ducati Desmo450 EDS brings the desmodromic engineering of Ducati’s off road programme to serious enduro competition, built for tough, demanding terrain rather than any road use. It sits within the same factory derived line as the DESMO450 MX motocross model, but reworked with enduro specific gearing, suspension settings and range for riders tackling extended, mixed terrain events.

Power comes from a 449.6cc single cylinder engine, its 96mm by 62.1mm bore and stroke and 12.9:1 compression ratio using DOHC desmodromic valve timing with a semi dry sump, a configuration chosen to keep the unit compact and light within the chassis. Fuelling runs through a 42mm Mikuni throttle body, and drive is sent through a wide ratio six speed gearbox fitted with quick shift for clutchless changes as the terrain shifts from open trail to technical single track, via final drive gearing of a 14 tooth front sprocket and 51 tooth rear. A multiplate clutch with hydraulic control keeps the action light through long days in the saddle.

Suspension is built for abuse, a fully adjustable 49mm Showa upside down fork with kashima coated tubes up front and a fully adjustable Showa mono shock at the rear, tuned to soak up roots, rocks and ruts without losing composure over a 1,494mm wheelbase. Galfer discs, gripped by Brembo callipers, provide the stopping power, running on Metzeler 6 Days Extreme tyres front and rear, a pattern developed specifically for enduro’s toughest conditions. An 8.5 litre tank extends range well beyond the motocross model, a crucial margin when the next fuel stop might be hours away.

Ducati Traction Control and Engine Brake Control let riders dial the electronics to suit changing grip, while wifi based X-Link app connectivity allows set up to be fine tuned and monitored away from the bike. At a 970mm seat height, it is built for committed, capable riders who know their way around a road book. This is a competition motorcycle intended for closed course and off road competitive use, not everyday riding. Available now at GT Motorcycles, your Ducati dealer in Plymouth, supporting off-road riders across Devon and Cornwall, with finance and delivery available.