Ducati Australia has officially launched the Desmo450 MX in the local market and announced a partnership with X Games freestyle motocross athlete Corey Creed, marking the Italian manufacturer’s bold entry into the highly competitive Australian motocross segment.
The Desmo450 MX represents Ducati’s first serious push into off-road performance in Australia, bringing the brand’s racing DNA and engineering philosophy to dirt. At the heart of the machine is Ducati’s signature desmodromic valve system, a technology the company has built its reputation on. Unlike conventional valve springs, the desmodromic system uses mechanical actuation to control valve movement, delivering precise valve control, immediate throttle response and high-revving performance that Ducati claims translates into exceptional overall power and consistent delivery under the extreme demands of competition and freestyle riding.
The chassis and suspension package has been developed specifically for motocross and freestyle applications. Ducati says the lightweight frame, advanced suspension setup and race-focused ergonomics enhance agility and stability, whether navigating technical circuits or launching into complex aerial manoeuvres.
Where the Desmo450 MX really separates itself from traditional motocross machinery is in the electronics department. The bike features an advanced suite developed to support riders performing at the highest level, with configurable riding modes, advanced traction control strategies and multiple engine maps that allow the bike’s character to be tailored to different riding styles and conditions. This level of electronic sophistication is a natural extension of Ducati’s expertise in road racing and superbike development.
Corey Creed is widely regarded as one of the most creative and technically accomplished freestyle motocross riders of his generation. With a career spanning major international events and multiple appearances on the global X Games stage, Creed has built a reputation for innovation, progression and technical execution. He’s known for pushing new heights on the quarter pipe and maintaining a smooth style while advancing the sport’s technical boundaries.
“The Desmo450 MX is unlike anything I’ve ridden before. The power delivery, control and electronics give me the confidence to push harder and be more creative on the bike,” Creed said. “Partnering with Ducati for my X Games competition and freestyle events is an incredible opportunity, and I’m excited to show global fans what this machine is capable of, starting at Summernats.”
The partnership between Ducati and Creed represents a strong alignment of philosophies. Both are focused on performance-driven design, innovation and an uncompromising pursuit of perfection. For Ducati, partnering with a rider of Creed’s calibre provides a high-profile platform to demonstrate the Desmo450 MX’s capabilities in environments where precision, power management and predictability are critical.
The bike will make its first Australian public appearance at Summernats in Canberra this January, giving fans the opportunity to see Ducati’s latest off-road machine in action on one of the country’s largest and most iconic automotive stages. Motorcycles R Us has been acknowledged as the supporting dealer for the partnership, playing a key role in the Desmo450 MX program and its Australian debut.
Sergi Canovas, Managing Director of Ducati Australia and New Zealand, said the arrival of the Desmo450 MX represents a significant moment for the brand locally. “This motorcycle embodies our racing DNA, advanced engineering and relentless focus on performance. Partnering with Corey Creed allows us to showcase the Desmo450 MX in an environment where innovation, skill and passion are pushed to the absolute limit. We are proud to introduce this bike to Australian audiences with Corey Creed and to work alongside Motorcycles R Us in bringing this project to life.”
The Desmo450 MX enters a segment dominated by established Japanese manufacturers, but Ducati’s approach brings European engineering, advanced electronics and proven desmodromic technology to the dirt. Whether the combination of Italian performance and freestyle innovation resonates with Australian motocross and freestyle audiences remains to be seen, but the partnership with Creed and the debut at Summernats ensures plenty of eyes will be watching.
