- Street-legal 450cc enduro based on the Desmo450 EDX
- Market launch announced for summer 2026
- Revised exhaust system with catalytic converter and O2 sensor
After motocross and purebred enduro, the next step is now underway. With the Desmo450 EDS, Ducati is bringing its first road-legal off-road model with desmodromic valve control to the market. A pre-production model was already on display at EICMA in November, and now European design registrations are providing additional clues about the final production version.
New series based on familiar technology
Ducati’s entry into modern off-road competition began with two 450cc models. The Desmo450 MX for motocross use and the Desmo450 EDX as a pure competition enduro. Both models share the same liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 450 cm³ and desmodromic valve control without valve springs.
The performance data for the competition models is 64.5 hp (47.4 kW) at 9,400 rpm and 53.6 Nm (39.5 lb ft) at 7,500 rpm. The chassis is also identical, including a seat height of 970 mm. The differences are mainly in the details. The EDX uses a larger fuel tank with a capacity of around 8.3 liters instead of around 7.2 liters, which means it weighs slightly more.
Road approval brings visible changes
Visually, the Desmo450 EDS remains close to the EDX. The model shown at the trade fair already featured a headlight integrated into the start number plate, a small cockpit, and a rear light under the rear fender.
The design drawings now published confirm further components required for approval. These include rearview mirrors on the handlebars, front and rear turn signals, and a license plate holder. In addition, additional protective components are noticeable, such as heel protection on the right footrest holder above the rear brake cylinder and new chain guards on the left side of the vehicle.
Revised exhaust system for road use
The changes to the exhaust system are much more extensive. While the exhibition vehicle still had the EDX competition exhaust, the production version has a significantly longer manifold that runs further down in front of the engine. A lambda sensor is now located in this area.
Instead of the flat expansion chamber of the off-road models, a round catalytic converter with a heat shield is used. These modifications are clear indications of compliance with the applicable exhaust emission regulations for road traffic.
Possible adjustments to durability and tuning
Even though the Desmo450 EDS is still positioned as a sporty enduro, road approval is likely to entail further technical changes. The extremely short maintenance intervals of the competition models, with 15 operating hours until an oil change and 45 hours of piston life, could be extended. This would probably be accompanied by a reduction in power output, although no official information is available on this as yet.
Not visible, but likely, is the use of radiator fans. These are common in road use with lower airflow cooling and are almost standard on street-legal enduros.
Chassis largely unchanged
The chassis appears to be largely carried over from the Desmo450 EDX. 49 mm Showa upside-down forks and a Showa monoshock continue to be used. The additional road equipment is likely to increase the weight of the EDS slightly. It is not yet known whether Ducati will respond to this with adjusted spring rates or modified damping.
For comparison: the EDX weighs around 107 kg (236 lbs), while the motocross version is slightly lighter at around 105 kg (231 lbs).
Market launch planned for summer
Ducati has announced the market launch of the Desmo450 EDS for summer 2026. Further details on performance, maintenance intervals, and equipment are expected to follow before the series launch. It is already clear that Ducati is very consistently implementing the transition from a pure competition machine to a road-legal enduro.
What does this mean for me as a motorcyclist?
For motorcyclists, the Desmo450 EDS primarily means access to a very sporty enduro with road approval that is technically much closer to a competition model than many classic touring enduros. Those who previously had to choose between pure racing technology without approval and significantly tamer series enduros now have a new option with this model. The Desmo450 EDS is likely to be particularly suitable for riders who mainly ride off-road but do not need a transport solution for connecting routes or when traveling to the track. At the same time, it can be assumed that maintenance, comfort, and durability will be somewhat more suitable for everyday use compared to pure competition machines, without completely sacrificing the sporty character. This clearly positions the motorcycle for ambitious riders with an off-road focus, rather than for classic commuting or longer road trips.
