KTM 450 SX-F vs Ducati Desmo450 MX

Side-by-side comparison of the KTM 450 SX-F and Ducati Desmo450 MX — weight, seat height, power, fuel capacity, suspension, and price for riders making a real buying decision.

Choose the KTM 450 SX-F if you want KTM's feel and the 450cc 4-stroke engine character. Choose the Ducati Desmo450 MX if you prefer Ducati's package and the 450cc 4-stroke platform. Specs are close in many areas — what matters most is terrain, ergonomics, and dealer support.

Who wins for which rider

Rider-need verdicts. The right pick depends on what you actually ride and how you ride it.

Lighter weight for technical terrain

KTM 450 SX-F

About 1.4 kg lighter on the spec sheet, which matters in tight, technical riding.

Seat height confidence

KTM 450 SX-F

Lower listed seat height (958 mm) helps shorter riders flat-foot at stops.

Better value on price

KTM 450 SX-F

Lower listed price at €11,399.

Side-by-side specs

Spec	KTM 450 SX-F	Ducati Desmo450 MX
Brand	KTM	Ducati
Displacement (cc)	449.9	449.9
Engine stroke	4	4
Power (HP)	—	60
Torque (Nm)	—	45
Weight (kg)	102.6	104
Seat height (mm)	958	960
Fuel capacity (L)	7.2	7.2
Gears	5	5
Start type	Electric	Electric
Front suspension	WP XACT-USD, Ø 48 mm	KYB 48 mm AOS closed-cartridge fork, fully adjustable
Rear suspension	WP XACT Monoshock with linkage	KYB shock absorber, fully adjustable, linkage type
Frame	Central double-cradle-type 25CrMo4 steel	Aluminum perimeter frame
Front brake	260 mm disc brake	Brembo 270 mm disc brake
Rear brake	220 mm disc brake	Brembo 240 mm disc brake
Clutch	Wet multi-disc DDS clutch, Brembo hydraulics	Wet multi-disc, hydraulic, Brembo master cylinder
Price (EUR)	11399	12990

What each bike is really like

KTM 450 SX-F

Full specs →

The KTM 450 SX-F is a championship-winning motocross machine, delivering immense power and precise handling for those who demand the pinnacle of performance.

Ducati Desmo450 MX

Full specs →

Ducati’s debut motocross bike, the Desmo450 MX, brings Italian engineering and racing pedigree to the 450cc motocross class, offering cutting-edge technology, light weight, and championship-winning potential.

Common questions

Is the KTM 450 SX-F better than the Ducati Desmo450 MX?

Neither is strictly better. The KTM 450 SX-F is a 450cc 4-stroke KTM, while the Ducati Desmo450 MX is a 450cc 4-stroke Ducati. The right choice depends on terrain, ergonomics, and dealer support more than headline specs.

Which is lighter, the KTM 450 SX-F or the Ducati Desmo450 MX?

Listed weights are 102.6 kg for the KTM 450 SX-F and 104 kg for the Ducati Desmo450 MX. Always verify with the manufacturer for your model year.