Ducati has added two Avinox-powered electric mountain bikes to its 2027 cycling range: the DM-160 R and DM-170 RR. Announced on 3 September at the International Bike Festival in Misano, the pair share a carbon platform but take different approaches to wheel size and suspension.
The Ducati launch announcement identifies an Avinox M2S motor and 800Wh battery. Ducati claims up to 1,300W maximum output and 130Nm, rising to 150Nm in Boost. These are manufacturer figures, not measurements from an Electric MTB UK test.
Two builds, two trail priorities
According to the launch specification, the DM-160 R uses two 29-inch wheels, a 160mm RockShox Zeb Select fork, a Super Deluxe Select+ shock, SRAM Eagle 90 T-Type gearing and Maven Base brakes. The DM-170 RR switches to a 29-inch front and 27.5-inch rear wheel, with a 170mm Öhlins RXF38 M.3 Air fork, TTX Air shock, GX Eagle AXS gearing and Maven Bronze brakes.
For a buyer, the useful distinction is the complete package. Wheel configuration, suspension adjustment and fit deserve at least as much attention as the motor headline. The specification suggests two different starting points for a test ride; it does not establish which bike will suit your trails better.
An adjustable frame, not just a different badge
Ducati Cycling’s platform overview describes three independently adjustable flip chips for suspension behaviour, geometry and rear-wheel configuration. It also identifies the DM-170 RR as the mixed-wheel, gravity-focused version and lists European prices of €7,990 for the 160 R and €9,490 for the 170 RR.
That adjustability is interesting if you want to tailor a bike over time. Before changing a setting, though, a buyer needs the approved combinations and setup instructions for that exact model. A flip chip is a tuning option, not a reason to assume every wheel and shock combination is interchangeable.
One specification detail needs checking
There is an inconsistency in the official material checked on 21 September. The DM-170 RR product page calls the motor “M2” in its summary and technical list, while its feature section and Ducati’s launch announcement say M2S. The launch specification above follows the announcement; confirm the final motor and build on a dealer’s written order before buying.
The same product page lists an integrated 800Wh battery. Capacity alone cannot tell you how far a ride will go: route, assistance use and the complete setup still matter. Our 800Wh eMTB battery guide explains what to consider when comparing larger batteries.
What UK buyers still need to know
The euro figures are European listings, not confirmed UK retail prices. We have not verified a UK pound price or a firm UK delivery date from the sources above. A currency conversion would not settle the delivered price, local specification or support arrangements.
For a UK shortlist, ask who handles motor diagnostics, warranty work and replacement parts, then compare fit and the final build against other Avinox-equipped eMTBs. Those answers will be more useful than choosing on the highest torque number alone. We have not ridden either Ducati, so this is a specification-led first look rather than a review.