Ducati has made a significant mark in the off-road racing world with its Desmo450 EDX, demonstrating exceptional performance at the recent Vegas to Reno race, known as "The Other Way." This grueling 505-mile desert race saw three Ducati teams clinching victories across various classifications, further solidifying the motorcycle's reputation in the competitive landscape of American off-road racing.
Competing in this challenging event, Ciaran Naran, along with teammates Cody Simpson and Callum Norton, achieved the overall victory aboard the Hero Racing Off-Road Ducati Desmo450 EDX. Naran's remarkable performance allowed him to complete the course in an impressive time of 7 hours, 44 minutes, and 26 seconds. His victory marks a significant milestone, being his third consecutive triumph in the 2026 American Off-Road Racing Championship, showcasing his skill and the bike's capabilities. The race was particularly thrilling, as Naran edged out Preston Campbell in a nail-biting finish that came down to mere seconds after more than 500 miles of intense competition.
In addition to the overall win, Ducati celebrated another success with Jordan Graham, who triumphed in the Over 30 Pro class while riding the Ducati Desmo450 EDX. Graham, competing in the Pro Unlimited category alongside Team Fohse teammates Kyle Tichenor, Travis Damon, and Brett Stevens, added a second victory for Ducati at this prestigious event, which is recognized as one of the toughest on the American off-road racing calendar.
Completing the trifecta of victories, Marley Racing secured the win in the Open Amateur class with riders Derek Marley, Colin Hicken, Bryson Dastrup, and Will Funke. Their successful completion of the demanding course aboard the Ducati Desmo450 EDX further highlighted the motorcycle's versatility and competitiveness across different racing classifications.
The impressive results at Vegas to Reno were bolstered by the support from Pirelli and Ducati North America, which provided vital tire and technical assistance to all three teams during the race. This collaboration ensured that the teams had access to necessary technical support, spare parts, and race assistance, contributing to their outstanding performances.
Jason Chinnock, CEO of Ducati North America, expressed pride in the achievements of the Ducati teams, stating, "We are incredibly proud of all three Ducati teams for their incredible performances at Vegas to Reno. To come away with victories in the overall, Over 30 Pro, and Open Amateur classifications, including Ciaran's third consecutive win, is a tremendous result. Races like Vegas to Reno put extraordinary demands on both rider and motorcycle, and these victories demonstrate the performance, durability, and versatility of the Ducati Desmo450 EDX in some of the toughest conditions in off-road racing."
The continued success of Hero Racing Off-Road, combined with the class victories from Team Fohse and Marley Racing, marks another significant chapter in Ducati's expanding presence within North American off-road competition. The triple victory at Vegas to Reno not only enhances Ducati's momentum in the 2026 American Off-Road Racing Championship but also showcases the brand's commitment to excellence in the sport.
For more information about Ducati and its off-road racing endeavors, visit Ducati.com.
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