The all-new, second generation Ducati DesertX has been revealed, and as expected, features the new V2 engine. The prototype of this new DesertX was first previewed at the 2025 EICMA show in Milan, Italy, last November. It is scheduled to arrive in European dealerships beginning April, and possibly in the 2nd half of 2026 for Malaysia. Ducati says that this new generation DesertX is the result of their attempt to explore further potentials of the platform, and fuses the experience gained from competitive racing in Erzbergrodeo, the Rally of Albania, the Transanatolia, and NORRA Mexican 1000 Rally, among others. Highlights Starting with the engine, it now uses the new 890cc V2 engine which also powers the Panigale V2 and Monster V2, therefore replacing the old 937cc Testastretta V2. The engine specs are 890cc, liquid-cooled, 90° V-Twin with Intake Variable Timing (IVT), producing 110 hp @ 9,000 RPM and 92 Nm @ 7,000 RPM. It is tuned to provide 70% (64.4 Nm) of that maximum torque from as low as 3,000 RPM for better tractability. Subsequently, the gearing is tailored with shorter first through fourth gears for slow, technical riding, and a longer sixth gear to improve fuel efficiency and comfort on the highway. Oil changes are set at every 15,000 km or two years, and valve inspection at every 45,000 km. With a new engine comes a new frame: The new monocoque frame uses the engine as a stressed member and doubles as the airbox. The new airbox position offers better access to the air filter. A steel trellis subframe allows for easier access to the engine components. The aluminum swingarm is unique to the DesertX and built with higher strength for technical terrain. The front brakes feature new 305mm discs, dedicated pads and an axial master pump. Its suspension has also been updated with new Kayaba forks with independent hydraulic adjustments to provide smoother action, along with a progressive linkage for the rear monoshock. The wheels are 21‑inch front and 18‑inch rear as before, mounted with Pirelli Scorpion Rally tires in sizes 90/90-21 in front and 150/70-18 in the rear. Ergonomics have been revised for improved sport riding on the road and better control when off-road. The footpegs are moved back, while the seat and handlebar are pushed forward. Likewise, the new 18-litre polymer fuel tank is slimmer and lighter, with most of its mass positioned lower. Seat height starts at 880 mm but can be dropped 840 mm with the lower seat and suspension kit option. The resulting wet weight is 209.5 kg which is a little lighter than the older model, with the engine providing most of the weight savings. Being a Ducati means plenty of electronic rider aids, starting with a six-axis IMU governing Cornering ABS, Traction Control, Wheelie Control, and Engine-Brake settings that are adjustable through 6 levels. There are a further 6 ride modes, 2 of which are for off-road riding. Ducati says the updated quickshifter gives more precise shifts and is less susceptible to dirt and impact damage. There is a new 5″ TFT dashboard, and two USB ports. It is available in Matte Star White Silk only, at present. (It looked great in its prototype camouflage, too.) The 2026 Ducati DesertX is priced at £14,995 (RM78,957.96) for the UK market. The previous DesertX was priced from RM124,900 for the standard variant to RM160,900 for the DesertX Rally version.