Ducati Desmo450 MX

The Ducati Desmo450 MX is a full size 450cc motocross machine built to run at the sharp end of the field, the flagship of Ducati’s factory motocross range below only the range topping Factory edition. Where the smaller DESMO250 MX suits lighter or less experienced racers, the 450 is aimed squarely at riders who want maximum horsepower on tap.

Its 449.6cc desmodromic single, with a 96mm by 62.1mm bore and stroke and 13.5:1 compression, produces a potent 63.5hp at 9,400rpm and 53.5Nm of torque at 7,500rpm, fed by a 44mm Mikuni throttle body and Keihin injector. A close ratio five speed gearbox, fitted with quick shift for rapid, clutchless upchanges mid race, keeps the engine working in its power band lap after lap, driving through a DID DMS 520 chain on a 13 tooth front and 49 tooth rear sprocket, while a multiplate clutch with hydraulic control handles the abuse of race starts and hard charging passes. A lightweight lithium ion battery with power launch sharpens starts off the gate, where 450 motocross races are so often decided.

A fully adjustable 49mm Showa upside down fork with kashima coated tubes leads the chassis, working with a fully adjustable Showa mono shock at the rear to keep the wheels tracking through braking bumps and big landings. Galfer discs, gripped by Brembo callipers front and rear, provide strong stopping power into corners, and Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tyres front and rear put that power down on hard pack or loam alike. At a claimed 104.8kg with a 970mm seat height and 1,494mm wheelbase, it stays flickable despite the larger engine’s added weight.

Selectable Riding Modes, Ducati Traction Control and Engine Brake Control let racers tune delivery to the track surface and their own riding style, adjusting on the fly as conditions change through a moto. Every element, from the slim bodywork to the precise front end feel, is built for the committed 450cc class competitor who rides to win. This is a competition motorcycle intended for closed course use, not for road or trail riding. Available now at GT Motorcycles, your Ducati dealer in Plymouth, supporting motocross competitors across Devon and Cornwall, with finance and delivery available.