Brad Pitt may or may not have gotten his clutch cables bent out of shape over Tom Cruise's taking delivery of a new $72,500 Ducati Desmosedici RR motorcycle before Pitt did, as reported Feb. 5 by TMZ.com. Though P.R. flaks for both megawatt stars denied the beef, that was less important to me than the object of their rumored affection. I immediately called Ducati headquarters — not to confirm or deny the rumor, but to get the skinny on the Desmosedici RR.
"The word on the bike is it's the most exotic roadgoing motorcycle ever," John Paolo Canton, press officer for Ducati, told me. "It's so far advanced from any bike on the street that it's in a category of its own.
It's the equivalent of a Ferrari, completely off the charts. It's race-oriented and almost has no business on the street."
In other words, you're not going to use this thing to fetch your Sunday bagel. The "RR" part of the name derives from the Ducati Corse Grand Prix racing Desmosedici GP6, the same bike that famed racers Loris Capirossi and Sete Gibernau competed with in the 2006 MotoGP World Championship.
The hefty sticker isn't putting anyone off, either. "It's a sold-out limited edition," says Canton. "We only made 1,500, and they all sold for $72,500. We're not making money on it at that price.
We thought we would sell about 200 as a marketing exercise. But we've got everyone buying, from car owners to racers to celebs. Yeah, it's a lot of money for a bike, but the U.S. race bike version costs over a million to build. For a streetgoing replica, it's well worth the money."
Although all 1,500 Desmosedicis are sold out, it's not a case of owners showing up to Ducati and driving theirs off the lot. Reservations have been accepted via the official Ducati dealer network since June 2, 2006, and production of the limited-edition bikes began last October. Production of all orders won't be completed until this December. For $72.5 G, owners get a three-year warranty and three years of scheduled maintenance, free of charge.
And what of the rumored Pitt-Cruise scrap?
"For the sake of keeping things straight," Canton says, "It never happened. Brad Pitt didn't have one on order."Read more: "New Ducati motorcycle is one sweet ride"
วันศุกร์ที่ 8 พฤษภาคม พ.ศ. 2552
Ducati brings a splash of color to its motorcycles
Performance purists could be upset while other motorcycle enthusiasts may have a hard time deciding on a color as Ducati rolls out a rainbow of choices for its Monster models.
The Italian motorcycle manufacturer continues to ride down the road of offering owners the opportunity to customize their ride with thirteen choices of color in the Monster series. Claiming to be the first to offer a single model in thirteen colors, the move continues a lane change made by Ducati at the beginning of the year when they highlighted the ease and ability to customize the new Monster series of motorcycles using its dealership network as a showcase.
In January, dealers from around the country submitted their customized designs of the new monster 1100S motorcycle, with Ducati giving them mere days to conceive and complete. The contest honored the premiere of the 1100S, which weighs in at an astonishing 47lbs less than its closest class competitor but it’s powerhouse of a 1100cc air-cooled engine gives it an impressive power-to-weight ratio. Ducati claim the M1100 S combines the carnal nakedness of the original Monster with the latest technology and styling.
The winning design (pictured right - click to enlarge) featured the Los Angeles City Hall building, an artist’s rendering of Downtown Los Angeles seen from overhead and a tank stripe which pays homage to the new Ducati Logo.
Transitioning from the mindset of limiting colors to its more traditional red, black silver or white the palette not only extends to the newly offered thirteen bright colors, but they can be changed out in about 10 minutes in the form of a "Kit Monster Art" consisting of tank, mudguard, micro-bikini fairing, and seat cover.
The Italian motorcycle manufacturer continues to ride down the road of offering owners the opportunity to customize their ride with thirteen choices of color in the Monster series. Claiming to be the first to offer a single model in thirteen colors, the move continues a lane change made by Ducati at the beginning of the year when they highlighted the ease and ability to customize the new Monster series of motorcycles using its dealership network as a showcase.
In January, dealers from around the country submitted their customized designs of the new monster 1100S motorcycle, with Ducati giving them mere days to conceive and complete. The contest honored the premiere of the 1100S, which weighs in at an astonishing 47lbs less than its closest class competitor but it’s powerhouse of a 1100cc air-cooled engine gives it an impressive power-to-weight ratio. Ducati claim the M1100 S combines the carnal nakedness of the original Monster with the latest technology and styling.
The winning design (pictured right - click to enlarge) featured the Los Angeles City Hall building, an artist’s rendering of Downtown Los Angeles seen from overhead and a tank stripe which pays homage to the new Ducati Logo.
Transitioning from the mindset of limiting colors to its more traditional red, black silver or white the palette not only extends to the newly offered thirteen bright colors, but they can be changed out in about 10 minutes in the form of a "Kit Monster Art" consisting of tank, mudguard, micro-bikini fairing, and seat cover.
Ducati's Latest
Ducati recently debuted three new bikes at the International Motorcycle Exhibition in Milan: a Monster 696, an 848 Superbike and an "extreme racing version" of its 1098, the 1098 R. Here's a rundown of what you can expect from these road rockets:
วันจันทร์ที่ 4 พฤษภาคม พ.ศ. 2552
วันอาทิตย์ที่ 3 พฤษภาคม พ.ศ. 2552
SPECIAL FINANCING ON M696 & 848 SUPERBIKE
Just in time for spring, Ducati North America is excited to announce a special financing campaign. Beginning March 1, there has never been a better time to join our newest member, World Champion, Nicky Hayden, and become part of the Ducati family.Ducati North America recently partnered with FreedomRoad Financial with the goal to provide Ducati customers with the best financing options in the industry. With payments as low as $119/month* on the next generation Monster 696 and $179/month* on the 848 Superbike, you can ride with the Ducati team. Get to your local Ducati Dealership to take advantage of this amazing offer. Details and dealer contacts can be found below.
MOTOGP JEREZ: SMITH TAKES DEBUT 125CC WIN IN SPAIN
Bancaja Aprilia's Bradley Smith wiped the floor with the MotoGP 125cc field at Jerez this morning, taking his debut class win by more than 13 seconds and circulating a second a lap faster than the rest of the pack for a majority of the 23-lap race.Smith got off to a flying start, taking the holeshot from second on the grid while team-mate Julian Simon bogged down and Blusens Aprilia man Scott Redding shot into third from the second row.The Oxfordshire teenager managed to pull out a 1.7s lead by the end of lap one as Redding moved into second after a mistake by Marc Marquez while championship leader Andrea Iannone crashed.As Smith continued continued his charge, Simon gathered himself and started to chase down his team-mate but pushed too hard and was spat over the high-side in a crash with 18 laps to go.Redding, meanwhile, was swallowed up by the battle for second which included Pol Espargaro, Marquez, Sergio Gadea and Sandro Cortese and found himself in eighth with six laps to go. With two laps to go, Redding's tyres came to him and he pushed his way from eighth to fourth. Gadea took second with Marquez in third. Webb finished in eighth.Non-qualifier Jonas Folger came through to fourth from dead last, after being allowed in at the discretion of race control, lapping around the same times as Smith but crashed out on the last lap.
OULTON BSB: PALMER SAYS THE BIKE WORKS
Buildbase Kawasaki rider Tristan Palmer finished in the top ten in both of Saturdays practice sessions at the second round of the British Superbike round at Oulton Park this Bank Holiday weekend.
The Nuneaton rider returns to the BSB paddock riding for the newly formed Buildbase Kawasaki team following a challenging 2008 in which he rode for the no longer operating Tena for Men.
It is Déjà vu for the 2007 British Superbike Cup champion Palmer as he reunites with his team mate John Laverty, the current British Superbike Cup champion. They both ride again for their previous sponsor Buildbase with whom they challenged the British Superstock Championship in 2006 on a Suzuki.
Palmer said: “I am very happy, this is a really good team. It is good to have a proper go at things, the electronics are so much more advanced. I am really happy with riding the Kawasaki.”
“We had some engine problems at Brands, but these are now sorted. We are going really well. It didn’t take much to adapt from the Ducati and I did ride the Kawasaki at the end of 2008 in the race of the year.”
Palmer so far this weekend has finished ahead of his team mate, averaging 1.5 seconds behind Karl Harris who has dominated each session so far this weekend. With a much stronger team and more developed machinery Palmer is already set to improve on his 10th place that he finished overall in the championship last year.
The Nuneaton rider returns to the BSB paddock riding for the newly formed Buildbase Kawasaki team following a challenging 2008 in which he rode for the no longer operating Tena for Men.
It is Déjà vu for the 2007 British Superbike Cup champion Palmer as he reunites with his team mate John Laverty, the current British Superbike Cup champion. They both ride again for their previous sponsor Buildbase with whom they challenged the British Superstock Championship in 2006 on a Suzuki.
Palmer said: “I am very happy, this is a really good team. It is good to have a proper go at things, the electronics are so much more advanced. I am really happy with riding the Kawasaki.”
“We had some engine problems at Brands, but these are now sorted. We are going really well. It didn’t take much to adapt from the Ducati and I did ride the Kawasaki at the end of 2008 in the race of the year.”
Palmer so far this weekend has finished ahead of his team mate, averaging 1.5 seconds behind Karl Harris who has dominated each session so far this weekend. With a much stronger team and more developed machinery Palmer is already set to improve on his 10th place that he finished overall in the championship last year.
GT Motorcycles is latest Ducati dealer
One of the largest motorcycle dealers in the South West has become the latest company to join the Ducati network.GT Motorcycles has been representing motorcyclists with dedication and passion for over 30 years. With outlets also in Torbay and St. Austell, the Plymouth based dealership has always shared Ducati’s passion for motorcycling and the brand was a natural progression for GT Motorcycles.For Ducati UK it will bring much needed coverage to the far south west corner of England. A dedicated area covering 500 square feet of showroom is set to display the award winning range of Ducati motorcycles along with an extensive range of the 2009 clothing collection and an exciting array of Ducati Performance accessories.The GT Motorcycles service area will contain the latest Ducati tooling and diagnostic equipment and factory trained technicians bringing the level of expertise and attention to detail that Ducati riders have come to expect.The new dealership will also have a range of demonstrators for customers to try that will include the fun fuelled Hypermotard, the light and fantastic 848, the iconic Monster 696 and the flagship 1198.Dealer development manager Andy Simpson is delighted with the new appointment of GT Motorcycles and says: “Genuine passion and enthusiasm for Ducati are the bedrocks for success with our brand. I am really pleased that Mike and his team at GT Motorcycles will be the people delivering the special Ducati experience to Devon and Cornwall. “GT Motorcycle owner, Mike Grainger, shares Andy’s enthusiasm for the new partnership with Ducati: “The new GT Motorcycles showrooms in Plymouth could have been made for Ducati. Bright, clean and modern display areas are exactly what our discerning customers expect in the 21st century and the Ducati range of motorcycles, clothing and accessories fits the bill perfectly.” GT Motorcycles will be holding a Ducati Open Weekend on 23-24 May. The Ducati road show will be attending with their event truck and a selection of demonstrators and display bikes, including the new Streetfighter.
Ducati management take voluntary pay cut
MILAN, Feb 5 (Reuters) - The bosses at Ducati, the Italian maker of racing motorcycles riden by world champion Nicky Hayden, have taken a 10 percent pay cut and given up their future bonuses in view of the economic crisis.
Ducati, which is owned by the Bonomi family in the city of Bologna, made the announcement after the latest industry figures showed a 38.8 percent drop in new motorcycle sales in Italy in January.
Ducati did not publish its own sales figures, but said in a statement its share of its market rose to 12.5 percent from 11.2 percent.
Ducati said the decision taken by Chief Executive Gabriele Del Torchio and other executives to take less pay was voluntary.
The announcement is the latest in a series made by companies looking to cut costs in the face of a severe economic slowdown.
Ducati has joined calls by Italian manufacturers for their government to help them through the crisis by stimulating sales.
Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's cabinet is expected to announce a package of incentives to encourage consumers to scrap their old cars, motorcycles and home appliances and buy new, more ecological ones.
Ducati's stock was delisted from the Milan exchange in December after being bought out by an investment vehicle of the Bonomis. (Reporting by Gilles Castonguay; Editing by Greg Mahlich)
Ducati, which is owned by the Bonomi family in the city of Bologna, made the announcement after the latest industry figures showed a 38.8 percent drop in new motorcycle sales in Italy in January.
Ducati did not publish its own sales figures, but said in a statement its share of its market rose to 12.5 percent from 11.2 percent.
Ducati said the decision taken by Chief Executive Gabriele Del Torchio and other executives to take less pay was voluntary.
The announcement is the latest in a series made by companies looking to cut costs in the face of a severe economic slowdown.
Ducati has joined calls by Italian manufacturers for their government to help them through the crisis by stimulating sales.
Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi's cabinet is expected to announce a package of incentives to encourage consumers to scrap their old cars, motorcycles and home appliances and buy new, more ecological ones.
Ducati's stock was delisted from the Milan exchange in December after being bought out by an investment vehicle of the Bonomis. (Reporting by Gilles Castonguay; Editing by Greg Mahlich)
Hayden doubtful for Ducati race debut
Following his high-speed crash in qualifying at the Commercialbank Grand Prix of Qatar Nicky Hayden may not be able to make his Ducati race debut this weekend.
In stark contrast to his pole-setting new team-mate Casey Stoner in Qatar, Nicky Hayden is suffering a nightmare weekend at the Losail International Circuit and may not be able to race on Sunday after a heavy crash in qualifying.
Trying to improve on his 16th place on the grid at the end of Saturday night’s 45-minute qualifying practice at the floodlit desert circuit the 2006 World Champion suffered a spectacular highside that has left him battered, bruised and doubtful for his Ducati Marlboro debut.
The American is suffering severe pain in his back and after undergoing some initial x-rays at the circuit medical centre, he was taken to the local Ahmad public hospital in Doha for further checks. Hayden required three stitches in a cut on his chest and a decision on his participation in the race will be made on Sunday.
Hayden was briefly quoted as saying cheerfully, “I don’t feel like going for a jog right now, I can tell you that much! It was a big crash and I’m in a lot of pain so we’re going to get some more x-rays done and see what the score is.”
A concerned Stoner added, “The whole team are keeping our fingers crossed for Nicky. Hopefully he can ride but the most important thing is that he’s okay.”
In stark contrast to his pole-setting new team-mate Casey Stoner in Qatar, Nicky Hayden is suffering a nightmare weekend at the Losail International Circuit and may not be able to race on Sunday after a heavy crash in qualifying.
Trying to improve on his 16th place on the grid at the end of Saturday night’s 45-minute qualifying practice at the floodlit desert circuit the 2006 World Champion suffered a spectacular highside that has left him battered, bruised and doubtful for his Ducati Marlboro debut.
The American is suffering severe pain in his back and after undergoing some initial x-rays at the circuit medical centre, he was taken to the local Ahmad public hospital in Doha for further checks. Hayden required three stitches in a cut on his chest and a decision on his participation in the race will be made on Sunday.
Hayden was briefly quoted as saying cheerfully, “I don’t feel like going for a jog right now, I can tell you that much! It was a big crash and I’m in a lot of pain so we’re going to get some more x-rays done and see what the score is.”
A concerned Stoner added, “The whole team are keeping our fingers crossed for Nicky. Hopefully he can ride but the most important thing is that he’s okay.”
Ducati Hyperfighter - Supereme Naked Bike
Hot looking Ducati Hyperfighter that may make its show debut at this year’s EICMA at Milan. The bike will apparently use the Ducati 1098’s engine, chassis, suspension and brakes but the 1098’s full fairing will make way for streetfighter styling and minimal bodywork on the Ducati Hyperfighter . With looks to kill and performance to match, this streetfighter machine may just be the Italian bike maker’s new identity. The Ducati Hyperfighter will be the first Ducati equipped with the revolutionary new DIES (Ducati Integrated Exhaust System), wherein the exhaust is integrated with the sub frame of the bike, which itself is made of magnesium to keep the bike’s weight low. Apart from the new technology, Ducati will use loads of carbonfibre to further shave pounds off the bike. Add to the equation further reduction in weight owing to the dumped full-faring of the 1098 and you have one hell of a lightweight scotcher. Bring it on, Ducati! Tags: bodywork, brakes, carbonfibre, chassis, debut, ducati 1098, Ducati Exhaust, eicma, exhaust system, full fairing, hell, hyperfighter, italian bike, magnesium, milan, Naked, new identity, new technology, Shave
Ducati unveils its latest Streetfighter
Alfardan Motorcycles yesterday unveiled Ducati’s latest super sports machine, the Streetfighter, at the Qatar Moto GP 2009. With Ducati’s signature specs and classic aggressive looks, the Streetfighter’s racing and streetbike approach lives up to the iconic name with enhanced engine power and unmatched riding performance, a spokesman for Alfardan Motorcycles said.Alfardan Motorcycles also showcased two models from the 2009 Ducati Superbike range: the new 1198 and the 1098 R. To mark his third Superbike World Championship and to celebrate the career of Troy Bayliss who recently retired from racing, Ducati has engineered the 1098 R Bayliss Limited Edition. The Ducati 1198 and the 1098 R Super-bikes are the most advanced, most powerful twin-cylinder motorcycles ever built. They are the product of a team of designers and engineers who have combined Ducati MotoGP and World Superbike technologies Test-driven on some of the world’s most challenging tracks, the Streetfighter is the first stripped-down sport bike equipped with competition-level traction control as standard.Ducati’s new Superbike-based motorcycle is a roadster which puts out a whopping 155 hp at 9500 rpm powered by an engine that is 7 pounds lighter. With the Ducati L-Twin muscle harnessed in a stripped-down, super-light, bike that packs more punch for its weight than any other contender, the Streetfighter becomes the new benchmark for the sector. Ayad As-Saidi, Assistant General Manager at Alfardan Motorcycles said:” With the launch of the Ducati Streetfighter, we are starting off another successful year for Alfardan Motorcycles. This is the first showcase of the Streetfighter in the GCC. This motorcycle has witnessed wide acclaim worldwide and we are confident it will generate a similar level of enthusiasm amongst Ducati fans and clients in Qatar.”Luca Pierotti, Ducati Motor Holding Area Export Manager said: “The Streetfighter has been the ultimate riding star in 2008 and has maintained this significant status to date. Thanks to Alfardan Motorcycles, we are introducing riding fans and connoisseurs to the ultimate naked bike lifestyle.”The Streetfighter, which was officially named the best-looking bike at the 2008 Milan show, is available at Alfardan Motorcycles’ showroom located on Suhaim Bin Hamad Street in Doha.
TCS signs deal with Ducati to deliver technology-based services
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) , a leading IT services, business solutions and outsourcing firm, announced that it has been named technology partner of Ducati Motor Holding SpA, the leading manufacturer of motorbikes and superbikes based out of Bologna, Italy.
TCS has signed a multi-million dollar, multi-year agreement with Ducati to deliver technology-based services that will help improve customer responsiveness and business efficiency. Ducati CEO and president Gabriele Del Torchio has come to India to kick-start this strategic relationship.
As a first assignment TCS has been awarded an ERP engagement for Ducati Motor Holding and its subsidiaries in Europe. TCS partnered with KPMG Advisory, Italy, for this assignment. KPMG would bring their local market competencies while TCS will bring its global network delivery model. The objective of this project is to drive quantum improvements in supply chain management, especially in the areas of forecasts, inventory levels and optimised production plans and overall reduced logistics costs.
S Ramadorai, CEO and MD, TCS, said “Our partnership with Ducati is another example of the cutting edge technology services that TCS is providing to leaders in different sectors and industries. With TCS as its tech partner, Ducati’s ability to respond to customers and react to the evolving business environment will increase and help them to effectively use TCS’ talent and expertise to boost their presence globally.”
Gabriele Del Torchio, CEO and president, Ducati said, “Ducati is the leader in premium sport motorbikes with an impressive track record in terms of racing successes. We believe that TCS is the right partner to help us setup a strong company platform that will help us reach the next level in terms of company competitiveness and results in today’s global market.”
TCS has signed a multi-million dollar, multi-year agreement with Ducati to deliver technology-based services that will help improve customer responsiveness and business efficiency. Ducati CEO and president Gabriele Del Torchio has come to India to kick-start this strategic relationship.
As a first assignment TCS has been awarded an ERP engagement for Ducati Motor Holding and its subsidiaries in Europe. TCS partnered with KPMG Advisory, Italy, for this assignment. KPMG would bring their local market competencies while TCS will bring its global network delivery model. The objective of this project is to drive quantum improvements in supply chain management, especially in the areas of forecasts, inventory levels and optimised production plans and overall reduced logistics costs.
S Ramadorai, CEO and MD, TCS, said “Our partnership with Ducati is another example of the cutting edge technology services that TCS is providing to leaders in different sectors and industries. With TCS as its tech partner, Ducati’s ability to respond to customers and react to the evolving business environment will increase and help them to effectively use TCS’ talent and expertise to boost their presence globally.”
Gabriele Del Torchio, CEO and president, Ducati said, “Ducati is the leader in premium sport motorbikes with an impressive track record in terms of racing successes. We believe that TCS is the right partner to help us setup a strong company platform that will help us reach the next level in terms of company competitiveness and results in today’s global market.”
Ducati Corse Friends: interview Ducati Xerox Team
During the last SBK race, Haga and Fabrizio performed very well. And we wonder, what will happen if Fabrizio will win a SBK race? Is Haga the one to win and become SBK World Champion?Will the Ducati Xerox Team have a special strategy and do they have team orders? Time to contact the Ducati Xerox Team and the friendly Superbike Press Officer Heather Watson answered our questions:
DCF: A very strong Fabrizio and Haga during the latest SBK race in Valencia, we wonder what this could mean in the near future, what about strategy, team orders, can Fabrizio win or?Ducati Corse:Of course the team hopes to see another Ducati Xerox champion this year, whether this be Nori or Michel. Each of our riders rides to win, and we as a team support both riders equally - we would never tell one rider to slow down for another.
DCF: But Michel Fabrizio is riding his second year with the team and he must show something to prove himself? Ducati corse:As Michel himself said at Valencia this is his second year with the factory team and he is aware that he should demonstrate his experience by regularly finishing on the podium - he knows this is an important season for him.
DCF: Is Haga riding to win with an open trottle, win or crash? Or does he likes to win by points and follow some strategy? It’s hard for a rider to be happy with a second position if he could win?Ducati Corse: Nori is definitely racing with his head this season, and knows that it is consistency that is most important in order to stay ahead. So no, he is not following the win or crash strategy but racing to take as many points as possible from every round (as demonstrated by the three second places he took from Qatar and Australia)
DCF: It’s great to see that Regis Laconi returned to a (private) Ducati Team. He’s back riding Ducati in the DFX Corse Team and performing great like years ago when he rode for the factory team…the time with the Ducati 999 and James Toseland. That time he could win the Championship in Assen. Ducati Corse: Régis took two great results at Valencia and it is nice to see that he is back with a team that can help him demonstrate his full potential - it will be interesting to see what else he can achieve during the year!
DCF: A very strong Fabrizio and Haga during the latest SBK race in Valencia, we wonder what this could mean in the near future, what about strategy, team orders, can Fabrizio win or?Ducati Corse:Of course the team hopes to see another Ducati Xerox champion this year, whether this be Nori or Michel. Each of our riders rides to win, and we as a team support both riders equally - we would never tell one rider to slow down for another.
DCF: But Michel Fabrizio is riding his second year with the team and he must show something to prove himself? Ducati corse:As Michel himself said at Valencia this is his second year with the factory team and he is aware that he should demonstrate his experience by regularly finishing on the podium - he knows this is an important season for him.
DCF: Is Haga riding to win with an open trottle, win or crash? Or does he likes to win by points and follow some strategy? It’s hard for a rider to be happy with a second position if he could win?Ducati Corse: Nori is definitely racing with his head this season, and knows that it is consistency that is most important in order to stay ahead. So no, he is not following the win or crash strategy but racing to take as many points as possible from every round (as demonstrated by the three second places he took from Qatar and Australia)
DCF: It’s great to see that Regis Laconi returned to a (private) Ducati Team. He’s back riding Ducati in the DFX Corse Team and performing great like years ago when he rode for the factory team…the time with the Ducati 999 and James Toseland. That time he could win the Championship in Assen. Ducati Corse: Régis took two great results at Valencia and it is nice to see that he is back with a team that can help him demonstrate his full potential - it will be interesting to see what else he can achieve during the year!
Ducati Monster 1100 US Debut
On January 11th, the Ducati Monster 1100 and 1100S were on display in the United States despite having been initially unveiled last October in International Motorcycle Show in Germany. So while the new Monster has already been on European roads, this is the first we Americans are seeing of it.The new 1100 is the big brother of the recently revamped Monster 696, the style of which has been significantly refined and polished in 2008-2009. The Monster has had a legion of followers since it’s debut in 1993. In 2005, the over half of all Ducati motorcycles sold were Monsters. I’m personally a fan of naked bikes and the Monster 696/1100 is perfect in my eyes, and a much needed improvement over the previous Monsters.The 1100 shares the same frame as the 696, but has a slightly higher seat, improved suspension and brakes in addition to the obviously larger engine. The two-valve 1100cc engine puts out 95 horsepower at 7500 rpm and 80 foot-pounds of torque at 6000 rpm. This is a significant jump from the 696’s 80 hp and 50 ft-lbs. So for those of you who like to have more power than you’ll ever use (or SHOULD use), the 1100 gives the Monster a nice boost.My local Ducati dealer had two Monsters of the 1100S variety, which feature fully adjustable 43mm titanium nitride coated Ohlins forks and a progressive Ohlins rear shock absorber with adjustable pre-load and return damping. Some bits of carbon fiber to reduce weight by a couple pounds and gold wheels to adorn the single-sided swingarm finish off the package.
Ducati Offering Interest Free Finance Deals
Italian motorbike manufacturing giant Ducati are offering 0 per cent interest on finance deals across their whole range of superbikes, in an effort to respond to the “credit crunch” and recent weakening of the Pound against the Euro.
This is the first time Ducati have offered such deals on their entire range of models, including the new Superbike, Supersport and Monster machines, and even the top of the range 1098R, Hypermotard and highly exclusive Desmodici RR bikes.
It’s great news for those wanting to buy a top spec motorbike without the fear of unmanageable payments, and subsequently debt collection companies turning up at your door.
Ducati motorcycles are widely regarded as the highest quality performance bikes money can buy, with their distinctive style and sound captivating the motorcycle world for decades. They are regularly seen performing very well in MotoGP and various Superbikes racing classes - already this year, Ducati are leading the manufacturers table in the 2009 World Superbikes championship after the early rounds of racing.
Ducati’s finance offer will run until the end of April, with the available packages being over 24 months with a 30 per cent deposit, or over 36 months with a 50 per cent deposit.
This is the first time Ducati have offered such deals on their entire range of models, including the new Superbike, Supersport and Monster machines, and even the top of the range 1098R, Hypermotard and highly exclusive Desmodici RR bikes.
It’s great news for those wanting to buy a top spec motorbike without the fear of unmanageable payments, and subsequently debt collection companies turning up at your door.
Ducati motorcycles are widely regarded as the highest quality performance bikes money can buy, with their distinctive style and sound captivating the motorcycle world for decades. They are regularly seen performing very well in MotoGP and various Superbikes racing classes - already this year, Ducati are leading the manufacturers table in the 2009 World Superbikes championship after the early rounds of racing.
Ducati’s finance offer will run until the end of April, with the available packages being over 24 months with a 30 per cent deposit, or over 36 months with a 50 per cent deposit.
Ducati leans on Tata for outsource services
Italian motorbike maker Ducati has signed a multimillion pound contract with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) for an IT overhaul intended to advance customer service and business efficiency.
Initially, the Indian IT services firm will roll out enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, in partnership with KPMG, for Ducati Motor Holding and its subsidiaries in Europe.
Ducati expects the ERP project to lead to an improvements in its supply chain management strategy, helping the motorbike maker to create more accurate forecasts, monitor inventory levels, optimise production plans and overall reduced logistics costs.
Gabriele Del Torchio, CEO and president of Ducati said: “TCS is to help us set up a company platform that will help us reach the next level in terms of company competitiveness and results in today’s global market.”
The announcement comes one week after TCS said declining IT spending, delayed orders by key clients and wide currency fluctuations had hurt its profits last quarter.
The fraud scandal of another Indian outsourcer Satyam Computer Services could bring opportunities for TCS. Tata CFO S Mahalingam has been reported as saying that some Satyam customers had approached the company, but no deals have been reached.
Initially, the Indian IT services firm will roll out enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, in partnership with KPMG, for Ducati Motor Holding and its subsidiaries in Europe.
Ducati expects the ERP project to lead to an improvements in its supply chain management strategy, helping the motorbike maker to create more accurate forecasts, monitor inventory levels, optimise production plans and overall reduced logistics costs.
Gabriele Del Torchio, CEO and president of Ducati said: “TCS is to help us set up a company platform that will help us reach the next level in terms of company competitiveness and results in today’s global market.”
The announcement comes one week after TCS said declining IT spending, delayed orders by key clients and wide currency fluctuations had hurt its profits last quarter.
The fraud scandal of another Indian outsourcer Satyam Computer Services could bring opportunities for TCS. Tata CFO S Mahalingam has been reported as saying that some Satyam customers had approached the company, but no deals have been reached.
Ducati unleashes the Streetfighter
Ducati was on hand to liven things up a tad in Milan with an old school press presentation involving catwalk, smoke, bombastic music and increasingly excited presenting from passionate factory staff. Ducati kept the best of its 2009 line-up for its home turf – the star of the show being without doubt the brand new Streetfighter 1098. In best streetfighter tradition, this new Ducati is a superbike stripped to its bare essentials, putting all that race technology on display and giving it an edgy look. The engine and chassis are almost identical to the 1098 superbike: Peak power is only slightly less at 157PS (compared to 160PS for the 1098), and torque is down to 115Nm compared to the 1098’s 122Nm.ft. But the rest stays the same: the steel trellis frame, high quality Showa suspension, Brembo monobloc callipers and the little bodywork it boasts all come straight off the 1098. There’s also a more expensive S version that gets even higher quality Ohlins suspension and the Ducati Traction Control, the ultimate in race technology for the road. This system uses sensors to monitor front and rear wheel speeds to detect rear wheelspin under acceleration, electronically reducing engine power to restore traction. Ducati’s new Streetfighter and Streetfighter S will be available in Spring 2009 to take on the performance naked bike category. Ducati also showed off the new 1198 and limited edition 1098R Bayliss replica. While the new 1198 looks similar to the 1098, Ducati says it’s a totally new bike that punts out 172PS from its Testastretta Evoluzione engine, and has a dry weight of just 171kg. It retains all the state-of-the-art racetrack goodies including Ducati’s data logging system, and the Ducati Traction Control.Ducati will be using the 1198 to compete in the 2009 World Superbike championship (WSB), the increase in capacity bringing it up to the maximum allowed for a V-twin in WSB. It’ll be taking over from the 1098 on which WSB champion Troy Bayliss won the 2008 title in the bike’s debut year, giving Ducati its 15th WSB championship win. Now that should provide Ducati with some consolation for losing the MotoGP crown to Yamaha this year.
Head-scratching for Hayden and Ducati
Nicky Hayden and Ducati will use the two week break before the French Grand Prix to try and iron out the unusual set-up problems the American is having with his factory Desmosedici.Most riders were worried about conserving tyres during Sunday's Spanish Grand Prix, but Hayden has the opposite problem. The American is still unable to use the harder of the Bridgestone rear tyre options and even struggled to get the softer option up to temperature at Jerez.While all other riders set their best race lap by lap 5, Hayden's came on lap 17 of 27 - and despite being one of only three riders using the softer rear (alongside Pramac Ducati riders Mike Kallio and Niccolo Canepa) while all others opted for the harder compound.The 2006 world champion, who qualified 16th, crossed the finish line in 15th, over one minute behind race winner Valentino Rossi and ahead of only rookie Canepa.“I was nervous that physically it would be a tough race but it turned out to be a lot worse than we expected,” said Nicky, whose team-mate Casey Stoner finished third. “In the beginning I struggled a lot again with a full fuel load and I made a mistake on the first lap - I was trying to make some positions up and I actually lost some. “I tried to recover but something was wrong with the set-up of the bike. I can't make the harder compound work well with my bike and I have to go with the softer one but today even those didn't start to work well until I got a lot of heat into them.“I did my best time on the 17th lap so there is something we have definitely to work on with the team. We need to look at the data and think up something different for the next one,” he declared.“It has been a really difficult grand prix for Nicky on the back of two tough weekends and two crashes,” commented Ducati Marlboro team boss Livio Suppo. “We have a little break now during which time we can sit down and work out how to get him back to the level he was at in the winter tests, which would lift him much higher up the order.”
Ducati explains MotoGP chassis technology
Ducati’s carbon fibre chassis made an instant impact by winning its very first race, in the hands of Casey Stoner, on Monday night’s 2009 Qatar MotoGP season opener.
Ducati’s leap from steel trellis to carbon fibre monocoque - bypassing the aluminium favoured by its Japanese rivals - has been the main talking point of the GP9 since it made an early public debut during last June’s post-race test at Catalunya. A carbon fibre swingarm was also introduced at the Qatar test in early march.
Carbon fibre is light, strong and extremely stiff - but also has different mechanical properties in different directions, depending on how the fibres are laid, opening up a range of new possibilities.
However, Ducati Corse general manager Filippo Preziosi said in June that it is the change in shape that is most important. “The fact we've used carbon fibre in the production of the chassis is not the most relevant point, it is more the shape that is different from before,” he declared. The new shape allows for a much improved airbox design.
For the riders, the main benefits have been in terms of stability, during braking and cornering.
“There is not a big difference between the GP8 and GP9 - the level in MotoGP is so high it is difficult to find a big gain - but there is a good advantage with the carbon chassis,” former Ducati test rider and 2009 MotoGP rookie Niccolo Canepa told during the winter.
In a feature documenting the evolution of its MotoGP chassis technology since 2003 (see below), Ducati calls the carbon fibre chassis the GP9’s “most significant innovation”.
But aside from the technical advantages, it is worth noting that Ducati’s carbon fire switch is also clever tactically.
By refusing to adopt the technology of its rivals - and enjoying instant success - Ducati will have effectively 'forced' the Japanese teams to start (or revive) carbon fibre chassis/swingarm projects of their own.
This is an unwelcome distraction at a time when they are seeking to refine their own ’09 machines, and face budget pressure due to the financial crises, but the price of failing to spot such potential performance advantages early could be devastating.
For such reasons, any new technology spotted in F1 - even if introduced by the smallest, underperforming, team - is always investigated by the leading teams, to avoid the risk of being 'caught out'.
The full Ducati feature can be seen below:
'The most significant innovation of the Ducati Desmosedici GP9 is the monocoque frame in carbon fibre composite.
'The technical selection of this type of frame is the next step in the advancement of the bike that has undergone previous major developments in its GP3 [2003] and GP7 [2007] versions.
'The concept of the engine casing has been the guideline of the Desmosedici project. The objective is to create a chassis set-up in which each element carries out a specific function, to obtain the desired rigidity with as little weight as possible, thus attaining maximum efficiency.
'The engine, the main frame, the rear sub-frame, the rear suspension system (comprising swing-arm and linkage) and the front suspension system are the main components of the bike.
'The basic idea is to abandon the classic concept of the chassis as the element that connects all other elements, in favour of a design in which the engine is the central element to which the main frame, rear sub-frame and rear suspension system are individually connected.
'The GP3 was unique in having a rear swing-arm that was attached solely to the engine. In particular both the swing-arm pivot and the suspension linkages were connected directly to the engine without any attachment to the main frame.
'The GP7 featured a main frame that was totally detached from the rear sub-frame. Basically the engine was the central element of the bike. The main frame was used as link between the engine and the steering head. The rear sub-frame linked the engine to the seat and to the footpegs and controls. The two frames, main and rear sub-frame, that were still linked to each other on the GP3, were now only attached to the engine on the GP7, meaning that they were smaller and lighter.
'On the GP9 the main frame is formed to connect the engine to the steering head. The main frame now also incorporates the air-box in one single construction. This monocoque construction allows the air-box to function efficiently within the main frame.
'Choosing to utilise the carbon fibre composite technology to create the frame means that, on the one hand, one can mould the piece into the desired form without incurring enormous equipment costs and, on the other hand, varying levels of rigidity and torsional characteristics can be attained simply by altering the type, the number and the directional orientation of the carbon fibres, using the same equipment.
'In testing carried out up until now the GP9 guarantees greater precision and stability in breaking and on entering corners. We maintain, however, that only by using it to race on the various world circuits will we be able to properly evaluate the potential of this technical solution. Employing the said technical solution in competition at the maximum level is the only way to effectively assess it in all its aspects.'
Ducati’s leap from steel trellis to carbon fibre monocoque - bypassing the aluminium favoured by its Japanese rivals - has been the main talking point of the GP9 since it made an early public debut during last June’s post-race test at Catalunya. A carbon fibre swingarm was also introduced at the Qatar test in early march.
Carbon fibre is light, strong and extremely stiff - but also has different mechanical properties in different directions, depending on how the fibres are laid, opening up a range of new possibilities.
However, Ducati Corse general manager Filippo Preziosi said in June that it is the change in shape that is most important. “The fact we've used carbon fibre in the production of the chassis is not the most relevant point, it is more the shape that is different from before,” he declared. The new shape allows for a much improved airbox design.
For the riders, the main benefits have been in terms of stability, during braking and cornering.
“There is not a big difference between the GP8 and GP9 - the level in MotoGP is so high it is difficult to find a big gain - but there is a good advantage with the carbon chassis,” former Ducati test rider and 2009 MotoGP rookie Niccolo Canepa told during the winter.
In a feature documenting the evolution of its MotoGP chassis technology since 2003 (see below), Ducati calls the carbon fibre chassis the GP9’s “most significant innovation”.
But aside from the technical advantages, it is worth noting that Ducati’s carbon fire switch is also clever tactically.
By refusing to adopt the technology of its rivals - and enjoying instant success - Ducati will have effectively 'forced' the Japanese teams to start (or revive) carbon fibre chassis/swingarm projects of their own.
This is an unwelcome distraction at a time when they are seeking to refine their own ’09 machines, and face budget pressure due to the financial crises, but the price of failing to spot such potential performance advantages early could be devastating.
For such reasons, any new technology spotted in F1 - even if introduced by the smallest, underperforming, team - is always investigated by the leading teams, to avoid the risk of being 'caught out'.
The full Ducati feature can be seen below:
'The most significant innovation of the Ducati Desmosedici GP9 is the monocoque frame in carbon fibre composite.
'The technical selection of this type of frame is the next step in the advancement of the bike that has undergone previous major developments in its GP3 [2003] and GP7 [2007] versions.
'The concept of the engine casing has been the guideline of the Desmosedici project. The objective is to create a chassis set-up in which each element carries out a specific function, to obtain the desired rigidity with as little weight as possible, thus attaining maximum efficiency.
'The engine, the main frame, the rear sub-frame, the rear suspension system (comprising swing-arm and linkage) and the front suspension system are the main components of the bike.
'The basic idea is to abandon the classic concept of the chassis as the element that connects all other elements, in favour of a design in which the engine is the central element to which the main frame, rear sub-frame and rear suspension system are individually connected.
'The GP3 was unique in having a rear swing-arm that was attached solely to the engine. In particular both the swing-arm pivot and the suspension linkages were connected directly to the engine without any attachment to the main frame.
'The GP7 featured a main frame that was totally detached from the rear sub-frame. Basically the engine was the central element of the bike. The main frame was used as link between the engine and the steering head. The rear sub-frame linked the engine to the seat and to the footpegs and controls. The two frames, main and rear sub-frame, that were still linked to each other on the GP3, were now only attached to the engine on the GP7, meaning that they were smaller and lighter.
'On the GP9 the main frame is formed to connect the engine to the steering head. The main frame now also incorporates the air-box in one single construction. This monocoque construction allows the air-box to function efficiently within the main frame.
'Choosing to utilise the carbon fibre composite technology to create the frame means that, on the one hand, one can mould the piece into the desired form without incurring enormous equipment costs and, on the other hand, varying levels of rigidity and torsional characteristics can be attained simply by altering the type, the number and the directional orientation of the carbon fibres, using the same equipment.
'In testing carried out up until now the GP9 guarantees greater precision and stability in breaking and on entering corners. We maintain, however, that only by using it to race on the various world circuits will we be able to properly evaluate the potential of this technical solution. Employing the said technical solution in competition at the maximum level is the only way to effectively assess it in all its aspects.'
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