2022 Ducati DesertX Adventure Bike Preview

After teasing us with a couple more off-road prototypes (read the Ducati Reveals Two Scrambler Concepts At EICMA 2019), Ducati gets serious in the dual sport streetbike segment with its 2022 DesertX ($16,795). The DesertX is positioned below Ducati’s recently overhauled and more GS-like Multistrada V4 streetbike which we tested extensively during the 2021 Ducati Multistrada V4 S MC Commute Review and Is Ducati’s Multistrada V4 the Fastest Adventure-Touring Bike? motorcycle review articles and videos.

The DesertX is powered by Ducati’s returning 937cc 11° Testastretta L-twin as used in the Multistrada V2 and Monster vehicles. Ducati says the engine is good for 110 hp at 9,250 revs and 68 pound-feet of torque at 6,500 rpm. The six-speed gearbox features lower gear ratios specifically for off-road riding. As usual Ducati fits an electronic quickshifter for immediate and clutchless upshifts and downshifts. The engine drinks from a generous 5.5-gallon fuel tank. Ducati says it will offer an auxiliary 2.1-gallon gas tank as an OE accessory.

The DesertX rolls on a new steel-trellis frame with real off-road-sized 21-inch front and 18-inch rear spoked rims shod with Pirelli’s versatile Scorpion Rally STR rubber (tubeless). An oversized 46mm-diameter fork is used at the front with a linkage-less shock attaching between the frame and swingarm. Suspension travel is rated at 9.1 inches (front) and 8.7 inches (rear). Fully fueled curb weight is a claimed 492 pounds.

A 5-inch color TFT display keeps tabs on vehicle vitals and is positioned in vertical orientation. In typical Ducati spirit, the DesertX will employ rider safety aids, including traction control, ABS, and adjustable riding modes. LED lighting helps the vehicle stand out after dark and the taillight flashes (like Aprilia’s 2021 RSV4 superbikes) during quick acceleration to help alert vehicles behind.

Ducati says the 2022 DesertX will arrive in North America this coming spring.