New Delhi: Ducati has opened bookings for its second-generation DesertX V2 adventure motorcycle in India ahead of its official launch. The updated motorcycle features a new 890cc V2 engine, a revised chassis and improved off-road hardware. It is expected to reach Indian showrooms in the coming weeks.
The motorcycle made its international debut at EICMA 2026. While Ducati has started accepting bookings in India through its official channels, the company has not yet announced the Indian launch date or confirmed the ex-showroom price. The expected price is around ₹19 lakh to ₹20 lakh.
New 890cc V2 engine
The biggest update to the new DesertX is its 890cc, 90-degree V2 engine, which replaces the 937cc Testastretta engine used in the previous generation.
The new powertrain produces 110.3 hp at 9,000 rpm and 92 Nm of peak torque at 7,000 rpm. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox, with the same gear ratios as the outgoing model.
Ducati has focused on delivering a stronger spread of torque, particularly in the mid-range, to improve performance across different riding conditions. The new engine is also designed to offer longer service intervals.
Revised chassis and off-road hardware
The second-generation DesertX V2 gets an aluminium monocoque frame, replacing the previous model’s chassis setup. The revised platform is aimed at improving handling and control, particularly when riding on uneven surfaces and off-road trails.
The motorcycle retains long-travel suspension, with an inverted front fork and rear monoshock. Its six-speed gearbox continues with the same ratios as the outgoing model, despite the engine change.
DesertX Rally gets specialised suspension
Alongside the standard DesertX V2, Ducati has introduced the more off-road-focused DesertX Rally variant.
The Rally version gets fully adjustable KYB suspension, including a 48mm closed-cartridge front fork with Kashima and DLC coatings. These upgrades are intended to improve suspension performance during demanding off-road riding.
The front wheel travel increases from 231mm on the standard version to 249mm on the Rally. It also receives a taller, fully adjustable rear monoshock that provides increased rear-wheel travel.
The higher suspension setup raises the seat height, although Ducati will offer a lower seat option.
Wheels, weight and electronic features
The DesertX Rally replaces the standard model’s cross-spoke tubeless wheels with Excel Takasago centre-spoked tubeless rims. Ducati says these wheels are designed to offer improved strength for off-road use. The Rally also gets a narrower 36-spoke rear rim to improve agility on trails.
Despite the additional off-road equipment, the Rally weighs 209kg without fuel.
The motorcycle’s electronics package includes:
- 5-inch TFT instrument display
- Cruise control
- Bidirectional quickshifter
- Multiple riding modes and power modes
- Cornering ABS
- Traction control
- Wheelie control
- Engine brake control
These systems are designed to help riders adapt the motorcycle’s performance and electronic assistance to different road and off-road conditions.
Expected price and launch timeline in India
Ducati has not officially confirmed the Indian price or launch date of the DesertX V2. However, the motorcycle is expected to be priced between ₹19 lakh and ₹20 lakh (ex-showroom).
The company is expected to bring the motorcycle to Indian showrooms in the coming weeks. Buyers will have to wait for the official announcement to know the final pricing, variant availability and delivery schedule.
With its new engine, revised chassis and Rally-specific off-road upgrades, the DesertX V2 adds another option to Ducati’s adventure motorcycle line-up in India.
