Ducati has done a thing, a big thing. It has thrown itself headfirst into the firepit that is the middleweight adventure segment. What started out as a concept off the back of the scrambler platform thankfully progressed into its own identity thanks in part to the development of its very own chassis.
While the Multistrada V2 is arguably in the same category, it tiptoes around the edge of that firepit warming its hands. The DesertX takes Ducati’s off-road capability up a notch pitching it right into the hotbed of capable off-roaders like the KTM 890 Adventure R, Husqvarna Norden 901 and Triumph Tiger 900 Rally. The DesertX is the real deal, and we’re keen to find out if that’s enough to cut it in rugged Australian conditions.
Even at first glance the DesertX looks ready for adventure. It’s tall front tower with forward-mounted windscreen is designed to be stood behind rather than sat behind. The big fuel tank dominates the side view, although it’s not as bulbous as it looks at 21L in capacity, while the rear subframe is exposed and ready to accept the optional luggage or long-range fuel tank. The front-end sits high on long-travel suspension with a 21-inch wheel up front and an 18-inch rear, a first for Ducati in the modern era which has made no secret about the DesertX being made for getting
