autoX Awards 2023: Ducati DesertX Performance, Quality and Value for Money Ranked

autoX Awards 2023: For our annual mega test, we had the opportunity to put various fast and capable machines through their pace, including the new BMW S1000RR, Monster SP, and even Lamborghini Urus Performante. Surprisingly, the motorcycle that truly caught my attention and made me all excited wasn’t even developed as a track machine or for timed laps. The motorcycle I’m talking about is the Ducati DesertX – the Italian manufacturer’s attempt at creating the perfect motorcycle for off-road excursions. Ducati claims that the chassis has been specifically developed for off-roading, and its 21-inch front wheel, 18-inch rear wheel, 250mm ground clearance, and knobby Pirelli Scorpion Rally tyres make its intentions loud and clear.

The DesertX is powered by the tried-and-tested 937cc Testastretta L-Twin engine, which develops 110bhp at 9,250rpm and a peak torque of 92Nm at 6,500rpm. While the engine itself is not new, Ducati has gone to town on optimizing and refining it for off-road use. Consequently, the motor now feels punchier and yet a lot smoother in terms of power delivery, instilling you with a sense of confidence to push the bike harder. Thanks to its composed, gradual power build-up and seamless fuelling, accelerating out of the corner is quite effortless and doesn’t upset the chassis.

Also Read: Motorcycle Jury on Which is the Best Bike in India | Ducati, BMW, Honda & More | autoX Awards 2023

However, what really surprised me – rather pleasantly, I must add –  was the DesertX’s handling during the test, especially while navigating the parabola and slalom course of the circuit. The bike allowed for effortless cornering, enabling us to throw it around the track like a 250cc two-stroke, without any unexpected surprises.

Moreover, the DesertX gets six riding modes, four power settings – Full, High, Medium, and Low – and two different throttle response settings.

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