The 890 cc 90° V-twin is equipped with IVT intake variable timing with helical spring valve return. With power of 110 hp and maximum torque of 92 Nm, of which 70% is already available at 3000 rpm, the engine ensures immediate traction at low speeds for very smooth delivery. 

The gear ratio is designed specifically for DesertX. The final drive ratio of first and second gear is shortened to heighten usability at low speeds and drive at full load, while the ratios for fifth and sixth gear are lengthened to make for more comfortable road-riding. The new flywheel helps ensure smoother delivery across the rev range.

The IVT helps ensure extremely steady and responsive output at low rpm, while retaining that typical Ducati sports character across mid to high range.

The V2 twin is Euro5+ approved. Spring-valve timing allows for the definition of an engine that prioritises steady running at low rpm and contained maintenance costs; the valve clearance check is required every 45,000 km and an oil change every 2 years or 15,000 km, confirming benchmark intervals for the category

A 35 kW restricted power version is available for A2 licence holders. With this version, maximum power is 43.5 hp at 6250 rpm and maximum torque 5 kgm at 5750 rpm.

The Riding Modes on the Ducati DesertX offer six different pre-set riding styles (Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro and Rally) for bike behaviour that perfectly adapts to the rider, the type of surface and the environmental conditions, with two dedicated off-road modes. Each Riding Mode is associated with a different setup of the control parameters. Switching between the different Riding Modes, the rider can instantly adjust the engine character and electronic control intervention. 

The DesertX uses the second-generation DQS. With respect to the traditional system, the gear lever no longer requires a Hall-effect microswitch, as the shift strategy is based solely on the gear sensor positioned on the gear drum. The rider benefits from shifting that feels more direct (with reduced travel), repeatable and less "gummy", particularly appreciated during sports riding. No microswitch means the lever is less exposed to dust, impact and atmospheric agents.

The Ducati DesertX is equipped with sophisticated, modern electronics based on the use of the 6-axis inertial platform, which can instantly identify roll, yaw and pitch. The electronics package includes:

• Cornering ABS adjustable to 4 levels. It can be disabled in Enduro and Rally Riding Mode
• Ducati Traction Control (DCT) with 8 levels + OFF
• Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) with 4 levels + OFF
• Ducati Quick Shift (DQS)
• Engine Brake Control (EBC) with 3 levels

The electronics functions of the DesertX are managed via the 5” colour TFT, redesigned to leave space for the instrumentation and with two USB ports as standard. Three Info Modes - Road, Road Pro and Rally - each of which switches automatically from day to night mode, can be selected using the joystick on the left block. The TFT is positioned to offer the best possible visibility even when riding up on the pegs and its horizontal orientation leaves room for navigation tools in the space above, thanks to the standard issue utility bar.

The DesertX flaunts a full LED lighting assembly. The front headlights retain the dual module design, an element that has made the Ducati model so iconic, while a now horizonal DRL gives the bike a more modern look. The full LED turn signals are dynamic*. Functions including Coming Home and Ducati Brake Light EVO round out the system, heightening practicality and safety in every situation and under hard braking.