MotoGP:One of Ducati’s key technical partners, Shell, have been working closely with the Italian factory to help them manage the process of adapting to the new engine restriction rules

MotoGP Press Release

With new FIM regulations coming into force this weekend in Brno, meaning that a maximum of five engines may be used by each rider for the final seven scheduled races of the 2009 season, it is vital that engines are lubricated and protected to ensure optimum performance.

“Our motorcycle oil development program faces new challenges this year,” says Shell Global Solutions Lubricant Development Expert and Ducati Technical Partnership Project Leader, Michael Knaak.

“We are very proud of the engine and gearbox reliability Shell Advance helped achieve for Ducati in 2008, so continuing that high standard is a big focus for us. We also plan to use our expertise in light of the new FIM regulations stating that for the final seven races of the 2009 MotoGP season, each rider may only use five engines. This new restriction means that Shell’s input will be more important than ever for Ducati. Shell Advance will play a vital role in helping protect the GP9 Desmosedici engine and maintain its performance over multiple races.”

Shell’s analysis, both on-site at races and in Hamburg at the Shell laboratories, will provide key developments to keep Ducati ahead of the pack in Moto GP. Livio Suppo, Ducati Corse MotoGP Project Director values Shell’s contribution to racing performance: “The partnership with Shell has been really good since the beginning. With the new FIM rules use this season, Shell Advance is central in providing the engines with the protection they need. The stress upon the engine is very high during a race situation, so Shell’s contribution to maintaining the high performance of the engine over multiple races will be very important.”

The accompanying animated video focuses on the role of Shell Advance lubricant in protecting the Ducati Desmosedici engine.