The Latest News from Ducati

Kari Lamanuzzi
AllAboutBikes.com Staff Writer

Ducati is one of the legends among motorcycle manufacturers.  In the Superbike World Championship, Ducati has accumulated more wins than any other motorcycle manufacturer.  Each year, Ducati comes out with a new stable of revised and cutting edge racing bikes.  Ducati shines the brightest in two major racing circuits, the Superbike competitions and the MotoGP racing circuit.  Although each circuit demands different weight, engine, and other performance standards, Ducati has turned out two top of the line series of bikes, the GP9 for MotoGP and the 848, 1198, and 1098R for the Superbike circuit.

The Ducati series of motorcycles for the MotoGP racing circuit has seen some major changes over the years, but what started as a prototype for MotoGP racing competitions has become a mainstay powerhouse.  While 2008's GP8 made major changes to the Ducati design, such as alterations in the rigidity of the bike's frame.  The GP9 utilizes a distinctive carbon fiber chassis, as opposed to Ducati's traditional steel chassis.  The design of the new GP9 is a respectful homage to the original GP6’s look.  Along with its unique carbon fiber chassis, the GP9 boasts a four-cylinder Desmodromic engine, a power output of 200 horsepower, and all the classic character and performance of a Ducati.  It even comes equipped with a port for data output so you can look at the GP9’s performance on a personal computer to make sure that the impressive technology is being used to its ultimate potential.

Ducati has an impressive stable of four bikes for AMA Superbike.  They include the light and maneuverable Ducati 848, the powerful 1198, and the 1098R.  These bikes have a newly modified look a d stance that is both aerodynamic and aesthetically pleasing.  Ducatis are instantly recognizable from their unique profile and contours.  They feature a compact front end and raised tail along with under-seat silencers to make the ride as comfortable as possible.  The Ducati 1198, the most powerful bike in Ducati’s Superbike stable, has implemented data and experience from the Superbike World Championship winner Troy Bayliss, making changes that are proven to speed up the rider at the most competitive levels.  All of these bikes implement the newest in Ducati motorcycle technology, and are an intimidating force to be reckoned with on the race track.

Ducati also produces a wide variety of motorcycle racing accessories, from gloves to jackets.  Although they are top of the line, just like their motorcycles Ducati’s accessories will put a significant dent in your wallet.