Ducati is on a roll with its latest announcements. Close on the heels of introducing the Monster 30th Anniversary model, the renowned motorcycle company has set the stage for yet another release – the DesertX Rally for 2024.
For those who have been keeping track, Ducati has been launching their new models in a sequence of “episodes” spaced over several months.
The DesertX Rally is a new entrant in this series, as revealed by the latest documents from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
A sneak peek into these EPA filings confirms the DesertX Rally model alongside the standard DesertX and the performance-boosted DesertX DP.
The exciting news for fans in California? The bike also meets the strict emission standards of the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
The heart of this beast remains unchanged. The DesertX Rally houses the same powerful 937cc Testastretta 11° engine that has graced models like the Hypermotard 950, Monster, and Supersport 950.
It boasts an impressive 108 horsepower and 68 lb.-ft. of torque. What’s more, there’s no bump in weight.
Documents from both EPA and CARB confirm an Estimated Inertial Mass (EIM) of 320 kilograms (705 pounds) for the Rally, matching that of the standard DesertX.
So, what sets the Rally version apart? For that, we turn to the clues from its very name and a recent racing event.
In June, racer Antoine Méo piloted a custom DesertX and clinched victory in the twin-cylinder category of the Iron Road Prologue at the Erzberg Rodeo.
This unique model, supported by Ducati Austria, saw several changes, like a broader 48mm Kayaba fork (from 46mm), an advanced shock system, and increased suspension travel.
It also sported narrower 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels fitted with Metzeler Six Days Extreme tires.
A tougher engine protector and a special Termignoni exhaust system were also part of the package.
These upgrades align perfectly with the “Rally” label of the new DesertX model. And to top it off, Méo’s bike had a paint job straight from Ducati’s design centre, hinting at the likely appearance of the DesertX Rally.
As for its official launch, it’s speculated that the DesertX Rally will debut in one of the early episodes of Ducati’s 2024 releases.
With unveilings slated for September 19, October 3, October 19, November 2, and November 7, anticipation is high.
Another notable mention is the Multistrada, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, which will also be a star in one of Ducati’s upcoming episodes.
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Ahtsham Younas is a passionate blogger and content writer. He loves to ride motorcycles and learn the mechanical process behind the motorcycles.
He has been writing articles in the motorcycle industry since 2019 and has learned many things about motorbike niches.