![](https://autonews.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/2023-Ducati-DesertX-937-0-Hero-1074x716-1.jpg)
Ducati first showed off two Scrambler-based concept bikes, the Motard and DesertX, at its world premiere event in Italy in 2019.
The frenzied reception the DesertX received prompted the company to prepare the Dakar-inspired adventure bike for production in 2021.
It went on sale in New Zealand last year, priced at around $25,000. Now Ducati has tweaked it further for the 2023 model year, adding new livery.
It retains almost all of its specs and running gear – around 9” of suspension travel fore and aft, six ride modes, a 937cc Testastretta L-Twin, and off-road-friendly 21” front, 18” rear wheel-set – but gets a 13cm liquid-crystal navigation display that pairs with the rider’s smartphone.
![](https://autonews.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/2023-Ducati-DesertX-937-1-1440x960-1.jpg)
The 2023 bike’s livery changes too. Unlike the existing DesertX’s white and red paint scheme — which itself pays homage to the Lucky Explorer livery worn by Edi Orioli’s 1990 Dakar-winning and Ducati-powered Cagiva Elefant — the latest DesertX comes adorned in the RR22 livery worn by Audi’s electric RS Q e-tron Dakar competitor.
The link with Audi is easily explained – Audi parent the Volkswagen Group owns Ducati. Using a black base, the RR22 scheme boasts a futuristic aesthetic with gray and red accents throughout.
The DesertX is still available in white and red. The updated 2023 Ducati DesertX 937 is available for order now, with pricing starting at $US17,695.
• See the video at the bottom of the home page.