Ducati Desmo250 MX – Born to Compete
The Ducati Desmo250 MX brings Ducati’s desmodromic engine technology and racing development into the highly competitive 250cc motocross class. Developed from the ground up, the Desmo250 MX combines an exceptionally high-revving engine, race-developed chassis components, premium suspension and advanced electronic controls in a lightweight motocross platform.
With a 15,000-rpm rev limit, dedicated Showa suspension and Ducati Traction Control, the Desmo250 MX is built to deliver precise handling, strong drive out of corners and the ability to carry power through every gear.
Engine & Performance
The Desmo250 MX features a purpose-built 249.7cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with DOHC, four valves and Ducati’s desmodromic valve control system. Drawing on development experience from Ducati’s Panigale V4 R, the engine uses titanium intake valves and steel exhaust valves to support its exceptionally high operating speed.
- Displacement: 249.7cc
- Engine configuration: Single-cylinder, liquid-cooled
- Valve train: DOHC, 4 valves, desmodromic timing
- Compression ratio: 14.5:1
- Maximum power: 44.5 hp at 12,500 rpm
- Maximum torque: 21 lb-ft at 8,800 rpm
- Rev limit: 15,000 rpm
- Fuel injection: Keihin injection with 44mm Mikuni throttle body
- Transmission: 5-speed with up-only Quick Shift
- Clutch: Hydraulically operated multiplate clutch
The engine’s broad torque delivery is designed to provide responsive acceleration at lower rpm while maintaining strong over-rev. The high rev limit allows riders to carry each gear longer, reducing unnecessary shifts during starts, acceleration zones and corner exits.
Chassis & Suspension
The Desmo250 MX features Showa suspension with hydraulic settings developed specifically for the motorcycle. The setup is designed to provide a neutral handling balance, reduce weight transfer and improve turn-in response.
- Dedicated Showa front fork
- Showa rear monoshock
- Suspension hydraulics developed specifically for the Desmo250 MX
- Lightweight motocross chassis engineered for agility and control
Braking System
Borrowing its braking package from the Desmo450 MX, the Desmo250 MX combines Brembo braking hardware with Galfer discs for consistent stopping power and control.
- Front brake: Brembo system with 260mm Galfer disc
- Rear brake: 240mm Galfer disc
Electronics & Rider Controls
The Desmo250 MX brings modern electronic control to the 250cc motocross class, with systems developed from Ducati’s experience in MotoGP and WorldSBK.
- Two Riding Modes
- Ducati Traction Control with three adjustable levels
- Up-only Quick Shift
- Electronic controls designed to improve traction, rider control and consistency
Ducati Traction Control is a key feature of the package, helping manage rear-wheel slip and reduce rider fatigue while maintaining the ability to push for faster, more consistent lap times.
Predictive Maintenance Technology
One of the Desmo250 MX’s most distinctive features is its intelligent maintenance system. Software analyzes engine operating conditions, including speed, load and usage intensity, to calculate service needs based on how the motorcycle is actually ridden.
Rather than relying exclusively on fixed intervals, the system generates a dynamic wear indicator and can extend service intervals by up to 33% under suitable operating conditions. More intensive use can call for more frequent service.
The Ducati Com-Link Wi-Fi module and X-Link app are available as accessories in supported markets, allowing riders to monitor the motorcycle, customize Riding Modes and review maintenance guidance through a smartphone.
Wheels & Tires
The Desmo250 MX comes equipped with Pirelli Scorpion MX32 Mid-Soft motocross tires, selected to provide grip and agility on suitable motocross surfaces.
- Pirelli Scorpion MX32 Mid-Soft tires
- Rear tire size: 100/90-19
Dimensions & Weight
- Wet weight, no fuel: 227 lb
- Seat height: 38.2 in
Maintenance Intervals
Ducati lists the following baseline service intervals for the Desmo250 MX:
- Engine oil and oil filter: Every 15 hours
- Valve clearance inspection: Every 45 hours
- Piston replacement: 45–60 hours
- Major engine service: 90–120 hours
Actual maintenance needs depend on riding conditions and engine usage. The predictive maintenance system is designed to help optimize service planning based on operating intensity.
Key Highlights
- All-new Ducati Desmo250 MX
- 249.7cc desmodromic single-cylinder engine
- 44.5 hp at 12,500 rpm
- 15,000-rpm rev limit
- Titanium intake valves
- Up-only Quick Shift
- Dedicated Showa suspension
- Brembo braking system with Galfer discs
- Two Riding Modes
- Three-level Ducati Traction Control
- Pirelli Scorpion MX32 Mid-Soft tires
- Intelligent predictive maintenance technology
- 227 lb wet weight, without fuel
The Ducati Desmo250 MX brings a distinctive combination of high-revving desmodromic performance, race-focused chassis development and advanced electronics to the 250cc motocross category. Designed around the demands of competitive riding, it delivers Ducati engineering in a lightweight platform built to make the most of every lap.
Build your Desmo250 MX here: https://configurator.ducati.com/bikes/ww/en/offroad/cr250mx/49835623?cid=KAKURVCV3QY6F7I
