Differentiate with Ducati

Warning: The article you are about to read may contain depictions of explosive speed, cutting-edge designs and over-the-top technology, which may provoke a new or enhance an existing passion for power sports. Furthermore, this passion could expose a burning desire to purchase one of the greatest Italian-crafted machines ever created: Ducati.

Italian culture has long been associated with fine food, familial strength, intoxicating language and superior wines. If you ever get the chance to travel to this great nation be sure not to pass it up. However, you don’t need to go to Italy to experience their genuine appreciation for the finer things in life. You need only to seek out a Ducati – a true staple of Italian heritage.

The family business began in 1926, but the three brothers didn’t just start building sport bikes. Owners of a successful manufacturing enterprise, the trio fabricated vacuum tubes, condensers and various radio components. Following Italy’s liberation, the crew changed course to participate in the rapidly expanding engine market. They combined the popular add-on engines for bicycles with modernized frames to create the first Ducati motorcycle. This Cucciolo-based roadster was a 60cc bike that topped out at 40 mph and donned an incredibly efficient carburetor, which produced an astonishing 200 mpg. As the market advanced, the Ducati brand adapted to manufacture larger machines, which eventually led to their 1960s production of the fastest 250cc road bike of its time.

The fingerprint of the brand is the unmistakable Ducati sound that roars from the famed L-Twin engine. In idle, the motor is rhythmic and raspy, but one slip of the throttle reveals a symphonic blast that will undoubtedly prove there is more where that came from. To further enhance performance, many models are equipped with a dry multiplate, hydraulic controlled clutch, rather than the traditional wet clutch, which can reduce power from oil viscosity drag on the engine. Although these are just a select few unique characteristics, they are proof that Ducati’s commitment to technology and performance places them in a superbike category of their own.

Using Italian minimal engineering, Ducati has championed the challenge of getting more from less. With the exposed Trellis frame, voyeurs have no reason to wonder about the intricate inner workings of these masterpieces. Characterized by a single-sided swing arm connecting the frame to the rear wheel, one can clearly see that this signature feature was designed to boast the distinctive design that separates Ducati from its distant competitors. Available in six models, these speed rockets carry a variety of riders, from classified road racers to cruisers to the casual scooter folk. But no matter the type of rider or design, you can rest assured that you will be noticed as you ride in authentic Italian style.

Though you have likely seen Ducatis before, as they are the No. 1-photographed bike in the world, for the full experience you must see road warriors in person. One look at the Monster series and you’ll begin to realize the beauty of simplicity in this naked design. The almost completely exposed frame demonstrates the provocative
appeal of baring it all. The semi-upright design will carry you comfortably, but the lack of a front fairing forces you to become one with the road. This is the truest image of the iconic Italian design and hands down a sensational ride.

If you’re dreaming of a superbike, you’ll wake up but still be drooling when you hear the engine fire in the 1198. This 170hp world champion is built for speed, and you’ll no doubt be picturing yourself in a knee-to-the-ground pose as you glide around candy-striped, hairpin turns. This sports bike features Ducati’s Quickshift technology for rapid acceleration, adjustable suspension and traction control to minimize tire slippage. Aerodynamic and side-paneled, this speedster will slice through the head wind and every stretch of road will magically transform into your own personal racetrack.

The newest design on showroom floors is the Diavel. This bike is truly something special. The Carbon model, although mean looking, has a unique muscular beauty. Features include ABS, Ducati Traction Control and 3 different riding modes. The semi-sagging seat allows you to ride in a comfortable upright position, but make no mistake — this comfy cruiser is a road-handling machine. The softness of the detailed carbon pattern adds a sense of sophistication and innovation for permanent distinction. And with 162hp, you won’t be sacrificing looks for performance.

So who owns these beasts of speed?

“Ducati is the Ferrari of motorcycles. It’s like a prized trophy. So you get consumers from bona fide collectors to daily hard-core riders,” says Tim Seebold, owner of Seebold Sports, Inc. “Regardless, these people are enthusiasts. They recognize performance, top-tier technology and aesthetic design. And that’s why our customers buy them.”

Like the Maseratis, the Ducati family built their power sport prowess on the track. For more than 60 years, their commitment to winning on the speed circuits has transferred seamlessly to the creation and production of these luxurious bikes. Their focus is simple: create the best sports bikes in the world with dependable performance and superior technology. It is this narrow focus on perfection that has resulted in branding a new breed of people who bleed Ducati. These fanatics are infused with an obsession to adopt the Ducati heritage. Worldwide, there are more than 400 Ducati clubs; more than 20,000 registered users on the Owners Club website; and several Ducati enthusiast organizations across the nation. Their following is so strong that every year these people come from all over the globe to visit the Ducati historical museum at the world headquarters in Bologna, Italy.

But you don’t have to be a raving fan of racing to appreciate the unique craftsmanship and dominating performance of these machines. You need only have a heartbeat. And if that’s the case, the rest of your senses will without doubt be overwhelmed with the magnificent speed and style of the legendary Ducati.

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