The 2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery Is Built For Off-Road Adventures

Ducati’s dreamy dual-sport motorcycle is more capable than ever.

The Ducati DesertX only arrived this decade to nearly universal acclaim. Two expert reviewers at Cycle World have sung the adventure bike’s praises, with one writing, “the DesertX [is an] excellent solution for those ADV riders who want the most performance they can get in the dirt.” It stands to reason that the new Discovery trim will be similarly well-received.

On- or off-road, the DesertX Discovery has a few extras that set it apart from the base model. Bolstering its durability on punishing terrain are reinforced hand guards and additional protection for the water pump, radiator grill and oil sump—three components that absolutely need to stay operable throughout a hard day’s ride. Should something go awry, the Discovery features a fold-down center stand to facilitate quick repairs in the field. And when it’s time to take the trek back home on paved roads, the Discovery’s heated grips and enlarged touring-style windshield are welcome creature comforts, especially in colder temperatures.

The DesertX’s 937-cc liquid-cooled Testastretta L-twin engine still produces 110 hp and 68 pound-feet of torque. To help the rider manage that output, there are three modes dedicated to road use and two for off-road riding. According to Cycle News, the tubular steel frame, fully adjustable KYB suspension and off-road specific 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheels clad in Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR tires are all also carried over from the standard DesertX. Finally, the DesertX Discovery is available in a trim-exclusive “Thrilling Black” livery—not that there’s anything wrong with the classic Ducati Red scheme, which is also still available.

Priced at $2,000 above the DesertX, the 2025 Ducati DesertX Discovery will cost $20,000 when it arrives at dealerships in the fall of 2024.