All-new Ducati Desmo250 MX headed for Australia

Ducati has expanded its growing motocross range with the unveiling of the new Desmo250 MX, a lites class competition-focused machine that follows the launch of the Desmo450 MX and continues the Italian manufacturer's push into off-road racing.

While an Australian release date is not yet known, local pricing will start from $14,925, placing it in a similar price range as much of its competition.

Revealed in Bologna this week, the Desmo250 MX becomes Ducati's second modern-era motocross model and brings the company's signature desmodromic valve technology to the highly competitive MX2 segment. It also follows the full reveal of the Desmo450 EDS enduro model, which is set to hit Australian shores later this year. 

Developed with input from Ducati's motocross racing program, the Desmo250 MX has been tested in the Italian Prestige MX2 Championship by Italian rider Alessandro Lupino. Ducati says the new model builds on the strengths of the larger Desmo450 MX, with a focus on precision, rider control and durability.

The bike is powered by an all-new 249cc single-cylinder engine producing a claimed 44.5hp at 12,500rpm. The engine weighs 24.7kg and apparently is partly inspired by Ducati's Panigale V4 R superbike, sharing a number of technical concepts and an identical bore and stroke dimensions of 81mm x 48.4mm.

Ducati says the desmodromic valvetrain allows the engine to rev as high as 15,000rpm, which would be “a new benchmark for the category”. The company claims the design delivers a broad torque curve while allowing riders to hold gears longer before shifting.

Fuel delivery is handled by a 44mm Mikuni throttle body, while a dedicated five-speed gearbox features an upshift quickshifter. A hydraulically operated Brembo clutch is also fitted as standard.

The Desmo250 MX uses a perimeter frame and aluminium swingarm similar in to the larger Desmo450 MX. Suspension duties are handled by Showa components front and rear, with model-specific settings developed to improve stability under braking and acceleration while maintaining agility through corners.

Ducati quotes a dry weight (without fuel) of 103kg, while standard equipment includes Pirelli Scorpion MX32 tyres and a Brembo braking package with Galfer discs measuring 260mm at the front and 240mm at the rear.

Electronics are a major focus of the new model. The Desmo250 MX features adjustable engine maps, launch control, engine braking adjustment and Ducati Traction Control. Ducati says its traction control system differs from conventional motocross systems by measuring actual rear-wheel slip and adjusting power delivery accordingly.

Another notable feature is Ducati's new predictive maintenance system. Using software derived from the company's racing programs, the system monitors engine stress in real time and adjusts recommended service intervals based on how the motorcycle is ridden. Riders can access this information through the Ducati X-Link smartphone app.

According to Ducati, valve-clearance inspections are scheduled after 45 hours of operation, while piston replacement intervals can vary between 45 and 60 hours depending on riding intensity. A complete engine overhaul is recommended between 90 and 120 hours.

A range of Ducati Performance accessories will also be available, allowing owners to replicate the appearance and specification of Ducati's factory-backed MX2 race machines. Available upgrades include racing suspension components, performance exhaust systems and billet-machined chassis parts.

The Ducati Desmo250 MX will arrive at selected European dealerships from July 2026, with a UK starting price of £8995GBP. North American deliveries are scheduled to commence in August, with additional global markets to follow.

Ducati has not yet confirmed Australian pricing or local availability.