from latin
desmos (controlled) and dromos (movement) is a mechanical solution for engine valvetrain movement that does not involve springs for opening and closing valves relying on rocker arms instead thus preventing "
valve float".
Ducati motorcycles are known for using desmodromic valve actuations on their engines.
"Forget about japanese crotch-rockets, desmodromic is the way to go!"
"Hey, look at that
poser on
the italian bike. Guess he's
never heard of desmodromic actuation. He looks cool, though"