Well it looks like Ducati’s marketing engine is in full swing as the release of the Dakar-inspired DesertX is fast-approaching. Only days after dropping a video of the bike shredding at the Dorno motocross track, Ducati has now taken its DesertX to meet the RS Q e-tron rally prototype at an off-road track for a special event in Sardinia put together with Audi. 

To celebrate the event, the Ducati Style Center designed a DesertX with exclusive livery inspired by the RS Q e-tron ― an innovative electric-drivetrain vehicle which made an impressive debut at this year’s Dakar by snatching four stage victories and 14 stage podium results. The bike was ridden by ex-MotoGP star and Dakar stage winner, Danilo Petrucci, who put on a show together with the Audi official drivers Carlos Sainz Sr and Lucas Cruz piloting the RS Q e-tron.​ 

Although the clip doesn’t display motocross tabletops, huge air or other gravity-defying stunts like those featured in the recent promotional video, the off-road DNA of the DesertX still shines through while blazing side-by-side Audi’s Dakar weapon. All fun stuff meant to fuel enthusiasm for the already long-awaited DesertX . 

With its 937cc Testastretta engine pumping 110 ponies, 21”/18” wheels, generous ground clearance and 9.1”/ 8.7” of front and rear suspension travel, Ducati promises the new model is capable of taking on technical terrain with ease. At the same time, the bike is also expected to be a competent and efficient two-wheeler on pavement. 

Those in Europe awaiting release of the DesertX will get first dibs as the bike will hit dealerships there as soon as the end of May. The U.S will have to wait a bit longer with an expected release until June or July. Starting MSRP will be $16,795 USD. Check out all the details, including specs here.