History of Ducati Motorbikes
Ducati began life as a workshop in Milan making parts for other companies. Founded by Adriano and Bruno Ducati in the 1920s, Ducati initially focused on making parts for companies making agricultural equipment. In the 1930s, they began making parts for the aviation industry, including parts for the Regia Aeronautica, the air force of fascist Italy. After the Second World War, Ducati began making bicycles, which was a popular mode of transportation in post-war Italy. Ducati’s first moped was produced in 1949 and ended up being more popular than the bicycles which led to the company focusing on small engines. Ducati’s transition to making motorcycles began in the 1950s when the company produced small but powerful mopeds and motorized bicycles. In the 1960s, Ducati expanded into making larger motorcycles and became famous for their single-cylinder 368cc “Scrambler” motorcycles. In the 1970s, Ducati shifted their focus again to making higher-performance and higher-quality motorcycles. In 1985, an American company, Harley-Davidson, bought a 51% stake in Ducati, and in 2005, they acquired full ownership of the company.
Unique Design Features
There are a lot of different design features on Ducati motorbikes that set them apart from other brands. A lot of these features are a result of Ducati’s history-making aviation parts, including their signature open-spoke wheels and the word “Ducati” stamped on the frame instead of on the engine like other manufacturers. Ducati also has a reputation for making slightly more aggressive designs than other brands.
- Open-spoke wheels: The most unique design feature on Ducati motorbikes is the trademark open-spoke wheels. While other manufacturers use more common spoked wheels, Ducati has always used a unique design that sets them apart.
- Italian styling: Ducati motorbikes have a more aggressive Italian styling than the other brands. While the other brands have a similar look and a focus on racing, Ducati has always had a slightly more stylish focus.
- Frame branding: Ducati is one of the only manufacturers that stamps the name of the company on the frame of the bike rather than on the engine.
- Higher seat position: Ducatis also tend to have a higher seat position than most other manufacturers as well as a slightly lower handlebar position.
Ducati’s Performance and Handling
Ducati has a reputation for producing powerful, high-end motorbikes that are designed to perform and handle extremely well. While many manufacturers have shifted towards making more comfortable and beginner-friendly bikes, Ducati remains committed to producing powerful, high-performance machines.
- Power: Ducati is known for its powerful engines, with most of their bikes having between 120 and 160 horsepower.
- Handling: Ducati motorbikes are also known to have excellent handling. Their focus on high-end performance means that Ducati motorbikes will handle corners and curves with ease.
- Transmission: Along with having powerful engines, many Ducati bikes also have a clutch-type transmission that is more similar to a manual transmission car.
Ducati’s Range of Motorbikes
Ducati has a wide range of motorbikes, from smaller and more beginner-friendly models to high-end, powerful sport bikes.
- Scrambler: The Scrambler, which was first produced in the 1960s, is a classic and stylish cruiser with a retro look. It is designed for a relaxed and comfortable ride, with a low seat and wide handlebars.
- Hypermotard: The Hypermotard is a more sporty take on the Scrambler. It has high handlebars, powerful brakes, and a low seat. It is designed for riders who like to go fast and aggressively.
- Panigale: The Panigale is Ducati’s flagship superbike. It is designed for high-speed racing and aggressive riding. The Panigale has a very powerful engine and an ultra-stiff chassis.
Ducati’s Technological Advances
Ducati is well-known for its technological advances and its use of cutting-edge technology in its machinery. In fact, the word “Ducati” comes from the Italian word for “technology”. Ducati is known for being very innovative and always looking to push the boundaries of engineering. Ducati was the first company to introduce the use of carbon fiber in racing and the first to produce a liquid-cooled motorcycle engine. Ducati is also the only company to use a single-sided swingarm on a production motorcycle. Ducati is also known for its use of advanced technology. Many Ducati models come with full-digital dashboards that display everything from your speed to your engine temperature. Ducati is also well-known for being the first manufacturer to introduce wheelie control. Wheelie control is a system that is designed to help riders perform wheelies without stalling their engine.
Safety and Comfort Features
Ducati is also well-known for the attention it pays to safety and comfort. Along with the advanced technological features, Ducati also puts a lot of effort into designing the bikes to be as safe and comfortable as possible. Many Ducati bikes come with anti-lock braking systems, which are designed to help prevent skidding in an emergency. Many Ducati bikes also come with wider foot pegs, to make it easier for riders with larger feet or longer legs to comfortably ride.
Customization and Accessories
Ducati has a reputation for making very customizable bikes. Riders can personalize the fit, color, and even add accessories.
- Seat: Riders can easily adjust the seat on many Ducati models, allowing them to make the bike more comfortable for longer rides.
- Colors: A lot of Ducati models come in multiple colors, allowing riders to make their bike as unique as they want.
- Accessories: Riders can also add various accessories to their Ducati, including bags, engine covers, and more.
Ducati Motorbike Clubs
For riders who really want to immerse themselves in the Ducati brand, there are a number of Ducati motorcycle clubs that they can join. These clubs are a great way to meet other passionate, like-minded riders and get involved in the community. These clubs also often host special events and gatherings where members can get together, share ideas, and plan rides. There are clubs for almost every model of Ducati, as well as regional clubs that members can join and events they can attend.
