Always ready for new challenges: Ducati enters motocross competition as part of its plan to develop a range of off-road models. Ducati is going to be launched in the coming years, whereas the enduro bike is set to launch in 2027.
Ducati has a lineup of motorcycles, from street nakeds to fully-faired ones and everything in between. However, one area Ducati is not present is in the competitive off-road segment, which is dominated by KTM and Honda. Now, the Italian manufacturer has confirmed plans to build off-road motorcycles and enduro bikes.
Earlier this year, Ducati unveiled the Desmo450X, a 450cc dirt bike that will compete in the Italian Motocross championship. The company’s current focus is to compete in the 450cc class and gather data to compete in the world championship.
Motocross events is a major driver of the dirtbike market with the growing interest in offroad leisure activities. With rising disposable incomes in many regions, this trend is fueled by a younger generation’s enthusiasm for adventure sports and trail riding.
Anti-lock braking systems are being introduced to improve rider control, while lightweight yet durable materials like carbon fibre are being used to create bikes that are agile and handle tough terrains better. There are technological advancements to enhance both safety and performance.
Following the 450cc dirtbike, Ducati will work on a 250cc platform, which is also a competitive segment globally. Later, the focus will shift towards an enduro bike based on the 450cc platform, which will be street-legal. That said, the platform could also help Ducati enter world rally raid championships and Dakar, an area again dominated by Honda and KTM.
Key players like Honda, Kawasaki, KTM, Husqvarna, and Yamaha dominate this market, continually innovating to enhance performance and rider experience. The surge in recreational and adventure sports, coupled with an increasing number of training facilities, is propelling market growth. Moreover, the defense sector’s rising demand for off-road motorcycles adds a significant boost.
Off-road motorcycles, essential for both adventure and performance, are engineered to conquer rough terrains and offer unparalleled riding experiences. These include dual-sport motorcycles, dirt bikes, and ATVs, each designed to navigate diverse landscapes with ease.
That said, Ducati is not the only motorcycle manufacturer to enter the competitive off-rad racing segment, as Triumph also announced its entry some time back.