Ducati has expanded its Motocross ambitions with the unveiling of the new Desmo250 MX, a purpose-built machine designed to compete at the highest level of the 250cc class. Following the debut of the Desmo450 MX, the Italian manufacturer brings its racing expertise to the MX2 segment, combining high-performance engineering, advanced electronics and the brand’s signature desmodromic valve system.
At the heart of the motorcycle is a 249.7 cc single-cylinder engine with four valves, double overhead camshafts and Ducati’s unique Desmodromic timing system. Producing 32.7 kW (44.5 hp) at 12,500 rpm and 28.3 Nm of torque at 8,800 rpm, the engine is designed to operate at exceptionally high revs. Ducati highlights the 15,000 rpm rev limiter as a key benefit, allowing riders to hold gears for longer periods of time and reduce the number of shifts required during competition.
The Desmo250 MX follows Ducati’s long-standing philosophy of developing technology on the racetrack before transferring it to production motorcycles. As a result, it has an impressive electronics package that includes riding modes, Ducati Traction Control, Engine Brake Control, Ducati Fall Detection, Power Launch and an upshift quickshifter. The bike is also ready for Wi-Fi connectivity and integration with the X-Link app.
The chassis is built around a lightweight aluminum frame composed of cast, forged and extruded sections, designed to provide an optimal balance of rigidity and handling precision. Suspension duties are handled by fully adjustable Showa components, including a 49mm upside-down front fork with Kashima-coated outer tubes and a fully adjustable rear monoshock. Suspension travel reaches 310 mm at the front and 301 mm at the rear, making the bike ready for the demands of modern Motocross competition.
The wheel package includes central-spoke Takasago Excel rims fitted with Pirelli Scorpion Motocross tires developed for intermediate-to-soft terrain conditions. Braking performance comes from Galfer discs measuring 260 mm at the front and 240 mm at the rear, paired with Brembo floating calipers. Ducati claims it weighs just 103 kg without fuel, putting the focus on the model’s agility and race-ready performance.
One of the most innovative aspects of the Desmo250 MX is its intelligent maintenance management system. Based on the experience gained in MotoGP and WorldSBK, Ducati has developed an algorithm capable of analyzing engine speed, load and riding intensity in real time. Service intervals can therefore be adapted to actual usage, helping to reduce maintenance costs while maintaining long-term reliability.
With a 7.2-litre fuel tank, seat height of 970 mm and wheelbase of 1,499 mm, the Ducati Desmo250 MX is clearly aimed at serious competition. More than a little brother to the Desmo450 MX, it represents another important step in Ducati’s mission to establish itself as a major player in the world of Motocross.
Images: Ducati
