Key highlights
- Ducati has unveiled the all-new Desmo250 MX motocross motorcycle
- Powered by a 249.7cc single-cylinder engine with Desmodromic valve actuation
- Features advanced electronics including traction control, launch control and quickshifter
After making its mark in the motocross world with the Desmo450 MX, Ducati has now pulled the covers off its smaller sibling, the all-new Desmo250 MX. Designed for MX2 competition and serious off-road enthusiasts, the new motorcycle brings a technology rarely seen in this segment: Ducati’s signature Desmodromic valve system.
The Italian brand says the Desmo250 MX has been developed to deliver strong performance across the rev range while remaining easy to ride for amateurs and competitive enough for professional racers.
Desmodromic technology comes to MX2
At the heart of the Desmo250 MX sits a new 249.7cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine.
Engine Specifications
|
Specification |
Ducati Desmo250 MX |
|
Engine |
249.7cc Single-Cylinder |
|
Maximum Power |
44.5 hp @ 12,500 rpm |
|
Maximum Torque |
28.3 Nm @ 8,800 rpm |
|
Transmission |
5-Speed |
|
Quickshifter |
Yes |
|
Clutch |
Brembo Hydraulic Multi-Plate |
The headline feature is Ducati’s Desmodromic valve actuation system, a technology that has long been associated with the company’s MotoGP and superbike machines. Ducati claims the setup allows the engine to rev all the way to 15,000 rpm while delivering a broad torque curve and strong top-end performance.
Fuel is supplied through a 44 mm Mikuni throttle body, while a completely new exhaust system has been developed to maximise performance while complying with international racing noise regulations.
Lightweight chassis
The Desmo250 MX shares its basic architecture with the larger Desmo450 MX.
The motorcycle uses:
- Twin-spar aluminium frame
- Aluminium swingarm
- Fully adjustable Showa suspension
- Brembo braking system
- Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tyres
Ducati says engineers specifically tuned the frame stiffness and suspension settings to improve rider confidence during braking, corner entry and acceleration.
With a dry weight figure of just 103 kg (without fuel), the Desmo250 MX promises impressive agility on tight motocross circuits.
Electronics package
Unlike many motocross motorcycles that keep electronics to a minimum, Ducati has loaded the Desmo250 MX with a comprehensive rider-assistance package.
Electronics & Rider Aids
|
Feature |
Availability |
|
Ducati Traction Control (3 Levels) |
Yes |
|
Launch Control (3 Levels) |
Yes |
|
Engine Brake Control |
Yes |
|
Power Modes |
2 |
|
Riding Modes |
2 |
|
Quickshifter |
Yes |
|
Smartphone Connectivity |
Via X-Link App |
One of the standout features is Ducati’s patented traction control system, derived from the company’s experience in MotoGP and World Superbike. Unlike conventional systems, it monitors actual rear-wheel slip and adjusts power delivery accordingly.
Availability
Ducati will begin deliveries of the Desmo250 MX across selected European markets from July 2026. The company has confirmed that global expansion plans are in place, although availability for the Indian market will be announced at a later date.
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