Ducati is set to launch its MX Experience in July at four iconic UK locations, offering expert instruction and premium hospitality. The Italian brand says the highlight of the experience for customers will be riding its Desmo450 MX.
The venues include Golding Barn in West Sussex, Hobs Hole MX in the Midlands, Pond Lane MX in Hampshire, and Fatcat Motopark in Doncaster. Experience days can be booked on the Ducati MX Experience website (ducatimxexperience.co.uk), with a full day priced at £220. The sessions are open to riders aged 17 and older, regardless of skill level. No motorcycle license is required, but participants must have prior motorcycle experience.
Tuition will be led by chief instructor Barry Johnson, a former top British and international motocross rider and a highly skilled ACU-qualified instructor with more than 29 years’ experience. Johnson and his dedicated team will tailor instruction to meet the needs of each rider, whether they are complete novices or experienced riders looking to refine their motocross techniques or push their limits.
“We are super excited to bring the Ducati MX Experience to the UK,” said Johnson. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for us to collaborate with such a prestigious brand that has big ambitions in motocross. The Desmo450 MX bikes are incredible, and with our venues, instructors, and support services, we can guarantee an exceptional experience for our guests.”
The Desmo450 MX marks Ducati’s entry into motocross, featuring a single-cylinder 449.6cc engine with desmodromic valve train, delivering 63.5hp at 9400rpm and 53.5Nm of torque at 7500rpm. With 70% of the torque available at 4200rpm and a limiter intervention set at 11,900rpm, Ducati claims it sets a new standard for the category.
The bike’s lightweight aluminium frame has only 11 pieces and features minimal welding, while the suspension includes 49mm fully adjustable Showa forks with 310mm of travel at the front and a fully adjustable monoshock providing 301mm of travel at the rear. The Brembo braking system features Galfer discs front and rear.
Electronics include a Ducati Traction Control (DTC) system for monitoring rear wheel slippage, launch control, engine brake control, and two riding modes customizable via the X-Link app. A quickshifter enhances gearbox performance.
The Desmo450 MX is set to hit selected European dealerships in June.