Ducati’s retro-styled DesertX adventure tourer has been a big hit for the firm, grabbing the attention of press, critics and customers alike.
It’s a great-looking machine, with excellent engine performance from the 110bhp 937cc Testastretta 11° V-twin engine, and sharp, nimble handling from the capable off-road-biased chassis, helped by the 21” front wheel, long-travel suspension and steel trellis frame.
Being a high-end Ducati, it also comes with loads of premium electronic rider aids, and high equipment levels too – but the way it rides is its real strong point: it just feels right from the rider’s seat.
The Bologna firm extended the range for 2024, releasing a new Rally version with even more hardcore running gear, and now it’s added another variant, the new DesertX Discovery.
The 2024 Ducati DesertX Discovery is more of a luxury touring version, which has been loaded up with stacks more premium add-on kit. That includes a set of 76 litre hard aluminium panniers, reinforced hand protectors, hefty fairing bars, and an engine guard with protection for the water pump.
There’s even more tough bike protection, with a radiator grill and beefy reinforced sump guard to keep you going in the worst conditions, even after big off-road spills.
And you also now get standard-fit heated grips plus a bigger touring windshield to increase comfort on long runs at low temperatures, while the touring spec is rounded off by a new standard centre stand.
That helps make the motorcycle more stable parked up, facilitating access to luggage during stops as well as the inevitable maintenance operations on the chain and rear wheel.
All of this kit comes on top of the standard useful touring features – 21 litre fuel tank, large TFT LCD dash, navigation integration, phone Bluetooth link, cruise control, 12v and USB power sockets and self-cancelling indicators.
You also get the DesertX’s top-end rider aids: wheelie control, up/down quickshifter, engine brake control, IMU-assisted cornering ABS and traction control, power modes, LED lights, and much more.
A posh new Black/Ducati Red livery gives a ‘bold, unique new look’, and there’s an optional 35kW A2 licence-compatible version too.
The Bologna-based motorcycle manufacturer also offers its latest “4Ever Ducati” guarantee, valid for 4 years with unlimited mileage, guaranteed by the entire dealer network, on all DesertX models.
The new 2024 DesertX Discovery will be in dealerships starting July 2024, priced at £17,295 in the UK. More info on the Ducati website: www.ducati.com