Tag Archives: Ducati

Record Q3 for Ducati | 2021 sales already surpass all of 2020

Record sales for Ducati in Q3 of 2021


Ducati have revealed another record breaking quarter of growth in Q3 of 2021, with 49,693 bikes sold for the year to date, with 48,042 motorcycles sold in 2020 in total in comparison. That’s a three per cent increase over the 2020 quarterly figure, and a 25 per cent increase over 2019 sales in Q3.  While official figures for the Australian market are no longer released, we believe Ducati is over 15 per cent up here in Australia.

At the end of September, the biggest market for motorcycles delivered remains Italy (7,954), followed by the United States (7,475) and Germany (5,627). Most successful models have been the Multistrada V4, Scrambler 800 models, Streetfighter V4 and Monster, in that order.

Francesco Milicia – Ducati VP Global Sales and After Sales

“Ducati closed the first nine months of the year with sales volumes that are already higher than the full year 2020, both for the bikes and for after-sales products like clothing, accessories and spare parts. The growth we are experiencing is practically widespread on all the main markets in which Ducati is present and extends across the product families. We are very satisfied with the results obtained: the community of Ducatisti is growing all over the world and the most influential magazines in the motorcycling sector are awarding important prizes to Ducati bikes. This is a source of pride and satisfaction for us here in Borgo Panigale and in all Ducati subsidiaries worldwide. The brand is now more solid and appreciated than ever and we are already focusing on next year. In fact, in these weeks, we are presenting to the world the new products for the coming year, through the web series Ducati World Première 2022.”

Ducati's Scrambler 800s were also top sellers, now joined by the 2022 Urban Motard variant
Ducati’s Scrambler 800s were also top sellers, now joined by the 2022 Urban Motard variant

Confirming the appreciation of Ducati motorcycles, throughout the year all the product families of the Bologna-based manufacturer have been growing across the board.

Ducati has also started to present the new products of the 2022 range. The first episodes of the Ducati World Première was dedicated to the new Multistrada V2, a comfortable, fun to ride, versatile and technologically advanced twin-cylinder bike that represents the new entry point to the Multistrada universe.

Also new are models of the Ducati Scrambler lines, with the arrival of the new Ducati Scrambler 1100 Tribute PRO which was created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the air-cooled twin-cylinder engine on a Ducati and which incorporates some stylistic elements typical of the 1970s era. On the other hand, the 800 family is joined by the Ducati Scrambler Urban Motard, a motorcycle created to experience the city environment.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Ducati adds two new Scrambler models

Ducati has added two more models to its popular and growing range of Scramblers with an 1100 Tribute Pro and an 803cc Urban Motard.

Both models will arrive in Australia in the second quarter of 2022 at the ride-away prices of $21,300 for the Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro and $18,900 for the Scrambler Urban Motard.

It has not yet been confirmed whether the current line-up will continue.

There are eight models in the range with prices from $15,500 for the Scrambler Icon Dark to $23,090 for the 1100 Sport Pro.

We figure the 1100 Tribute Pro is almost $1000 more than the current 1100 Sport Pro and the Urban Motard is about $900 more than the Nightshift.

1100 Tribute PRO

Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro
Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro

The Ducati Scrambler 1100 Tribute PRO pays homage to the 50th anniversary of the Italian’s air-cooled twin-cylinder engine.

It has a “Giallo Ocra” livery featuring the 1970s Ducati logo designed by auto designer Giorgetto Giugiaro who also designed the DMC DeLorean that starred in the Back to the Future movie series.

The styling also includes a brown seat and black spoked wheels.

It is powered by the same 1079cc engine as in the rest of the Ducati Scrambler 1100 PRO family with no changes to output of 86hp (64kW) and 90Nm (9.2kgm).

Urban Motard

Scrambler Urban Motard
Scrambler Urban Motard

The Ducati Scrambler Urban Motard features a high-rise front mudguard, “race number” plate, 17″ spoked wheels, flat seat and graffiti-style graphics.

Similarly, there is no change to the 803cc L-twin engine that powers the other 800 models.

All Ducati  models now come with cornering ABS as standard.

They are also designed for the Ducati Multimedia System (DMS), which allows riders to connect their phone via Bluetooth.

The bikes arrive in Europe next month where the 800 models are also available in a 35-kW version for European A2 licence holders.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Two new models join Ducati’s Scrambler line-up for 2022

2022 Ducati Scrambler line-up

Ducati added two new models to their burgeoning Scrambler line-up overnight with the reveal of the new ‘Urban Motard’ and ‘Tribute Pro’ models.

2022 Ducati Scrambler Urban Motard

The Urban Motard is part of a five-model 800 range that also includes ‘Icon’, ‘Icon Dark’, ‘Nightshift’ and ‘Desert Sled’, while ‘Desert Sled Fasthouse’ is dropped from the range for 2022.  At $14,790 Ride Away ‘Icon Dark’ will remain the most affordable and lightest (173 kg) entry point to the ‘Land of Joy’, who would have thought that they were continuing with that marketing slogan…

2022 Ducati Scrambler Urban Motard

The new ‘Urban Motard’ will arrive in the second quarter of 2022 at $18,900 Ride Away. Urban Motard rides on spoked 17-inch rims with more sports focussed Diablo Rosso III rubber than its siblings.  Kayaba provide the suspension for the Urban Motard

2022 Ducati Scrambler Urban Motard

The Scrambler 800 models are all powered by an 803 cc L-twin engine with traditional desmodromic valve actuation that delivers 73 hp of power at 8,250 rpm and 66 Nm of torque at 5,750 rpm.

2022 Ducati Scrambler Urban Motard

The new Tribute Pro is the third model in the 1100 Scrambler range, joining ‘Dark Pro’ and ‘Sport Pro’ while the ‘Pro’ model is now discontinued.

Ducati Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro

At $18,990 the 1100 ‘Dark Pro’ will remain the most affordable big bore in the Scrambler range, followed by the new 1100 ‘Tribute Pro’ at $21,300 Ride Away, while the Ohlins equipped ‘Sport Pro’ remains the range topper at $23,090.

Ducati Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro

The new ‘Tribute Pro’ is not expected to arrive until the second quarter of 2022. Ducati Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro rides on a Kayaba shock and Marzocchi forks. All 1100 Scrambler models roll on an 18-inch front and 17-inch rear.

All 1100 Scramblers are powered by an 1079 cc engine delivering 86 horsepower at 7500 rpm while the peak twist of 88 Nm arrives at an early 4750 rpm.

Ducati Scrambler 1100 Tribute Pro

Ducati’s has chosen to equip all Ducati and Scrambler Ducati models with Cornering ABS.

Ducati Scramblers are also designed for the Ducati Multimedia System (DMS), which enables a smartphone to be connected to the bike via Bluetooth, while the USB socket positioned under the seat is standard.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Ducati’s attempt to build a car | The DU-4

Ducati DU-4

With Phil Aynsley


In my last column I wrote about one of Ducati’s three-wheeled efforts. In this column I’ll go one better!

After the end of WW II the Ducati brothers looked to re-establish their ruined factory and unemployed workforce. One avenue they explored was the manufacture of a small car, the DU-4. Only a single prototype was built in 1946 before the growing success of the Cucciolo focused the company’s efforts on two-wheeled transport.

Ducati DU4

The prototype was sold to Fiat where it remained until 2005 (the bodywork went missing during this period). It was then that long time Ducati enthusiast Italo Forni was able to purchase it. Forni is an ex-Ducati test rider (1973-1977) who also competed for the national team in two ISDTs, riding Ducati 450 R/Ts. He went on to be Italian MX champion several times.

Ducati’s DU-4

The DU-4 was quite advanced for the time with front-wheel drive, 4-speed gearbox, independent suspension and hydraulic brakes. The steel tube chassis was made by Verlicchi.

Perhaps the car’s most outstanding feature however was the use of a newly designed OHV 254cc V4 engine, in an ‘L’ configuration with the front cylinders nearly horizontal – the same as Ducatis of 25 odd years later!

Source: MCNews.com.au

Ducati deliver a lighter and more comfortable Multistrada V2 for 2022

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2

Overnight Ducati pulled the covers off an update to the Multistrada V2 that will arrive in Australia during the first quarter of 2022 priced at $22,539.00 Ride Away, whilst the Multistrada V2 S will start from $25,190 Ride Away.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S with Travel Pack

Improving the ergonomics and comfort for the rider were priorities for the redesign which also benefits from a 5 kg reduction in weight, now tipping the scales at 222 kg with its 20-litre fuel tank full and ready to ride.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S with Travel Pack

The standard seat height is 830 mm but an optional low seat takes that down to 810 mm, to which you can option a low-suspension kit to push it down to 790 mm.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S

The standard seat has a new shape and is narrower between your legs to further aid the ease with which shorter riders can feel secure on the bike.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S

The riding position is now more comfortable with the new footpegs inherited from the Multistrada V4 which, thanks to a 10 mm increase in distance from the seat, ensure the right amount of room also for taller riders, preventing them from bending their legs excessively, and thus allowing a more restful position during long journeys. A taller 850 mm seat can also be optioned.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S

A new evolution of the Testastretta 11° engine also debuts with new con-rods, eight-disc wet clutch and updated gearbox which is claimed to improve shift quality, particularly on the S thanks to its up-down Quick Shifter.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S with Travel Pack

While the V4 Multistrada has moved to conventional valve spring cylinder heads the V2 range retains Ducati’s traditional desmodromic valve actuation.  Minor service intervals are 15,000 km while the valve clearances should be checked ever 30,000 km. The water-cooled engine reaches its peak of 113 horsepower at 9000 rpm while the torque peak of 96 Nm arrives at 7750 rpm.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S

Both models steer with a 19-inch front but while the V2 uses conventional fully-adjustable suspension (KYB forks / Sachs Shock), the S model scores the Ducati Skyhook Suspension EVO (Sachs) fully electronic set-up. Both bikes offer a handy 170 mm of suspension travel.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S

While the engine changes have realised a 2 kg saving, various parts of have been lightened, including the mirrors, derived from Multistrada V4, the front brake disc flanges and the rims: the new Multistrada V2 mounts rims derived from the Multistrada V4, which are about 1.7 kg lighter. Spoked wheels are also available in the Ducati Performance catalogue, which Ducati claim have also been significantly lightened.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S

Multistrada V2 is equipped as standard with a state-of-the-art electronic package that offers everything you
need to travel in comfort and safety. The package includes ABS Cornering, which guarantees a high degree of safety when braking even when cornering, Vehicle Hold Control, which makes starting on sloping roads easy, Ducati Traction Control, the four Riding Modes (Sport, Touring, Urban, Enduro) completely configurable by the user and the new featured Ducati Brake Light system which, in the event of sudden braking, automatically activates the flashing of the rear light in order to signal the condition of sudden slowing down appropriately.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2

In the S version the journey becomes 5-star thanks to a benchmark full-optional package for the segment, which sees the addition of the Ducati Skyhook electronic suspension, Cruise Control, full-LED headlight equipped with Ducati Cornering Lights function which optimizes the illumination of the roadway based on the lean of the motorcycle.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S

The S also scores Ducati Quick Shift Up & Down, Hands Free system, a high resolution 5” colour TFT dashboard with intuitive interface and backlit handlebar controls.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S

The colour range consists of the classic “Ducati Red” colour with black rims, available for both Multistrada V2 and Multistrada V2 S, together with the new “Street Grey” livery with black frame and “GP Red” rims, which can only be ordered for the version S.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S

For the Multistrada V2 family there are two trim levels that can be ordered directly from the factory. The Essential trim is available for both Multistrada V2 and Multistrada V2 S, while the Travel trim, with side bags, heated grips and central stand, can only be ordered for the S version.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S with Travel Pack

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 Technical Specifications

Ducati Multistrada V2 Specifications
Engine
Type Ducati Testastretta, L-Twin cylinder, Desmodromic timing, 4 valves per cylinder, Liquid cooled
Displacement 937 cc (57.2 cu in)
Bore X Stroke 94 x 67.5 mm
Compression Ratio 12.6:1
Power 113 hp (83 kW) @ 9,000 rpm
Torque 96 Nm (9.8 kgm, 71 lb ft) @ 7,750 rpm 94 Nm (9.6 kgm, 69 lb ft) @ 6,750 rpm*
Fuel Injection Electronic fuel injection system, Ø 53 mm throttle bodies with Ride-by-Wire system
Exhaust Stainless steel single muffler, Catalytic converterand 2 lambda probes
Transmission
Gearbox 6 speed
Primary Drive Straight cut gears; Ratio 1.84:1
Ratio 1=37/15, 2=30/17, 3=28/20, 4=26/22, 5=24/23, 6=23/24
Final Drive Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 43
Clutch Slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch with hydraulic control
Chassis
Frame Tubular steel trellis frame
Front Suspension Ø 48 mm fully adjustable usd fork
Front Wheel Light alloy casted 3.0″ x 19″
Front Tyre Pirelli Scorpion Trail II 120/70 ZR 19
Rear Suspension Fully adjustable monoshock, Remote spring preload adjustment, Aluminium double-sided swingarm
Rear Wheel Light alloy casted 4.5″ x 17″
Rear Tyre Pirelli Scorpion Trail II 170/60 ZR 17
Wheel Travel (Front/Rear) 170 mm / 170 mm (6.7 in / 6.7 in)
Front Brake 2 x Ø 320 mm aluminum flange semi-floating discs, Radially mounted Brembo monobloc 4- piston 2-pad callipers, Radial Master Cylinder, Cornering ABS
Rear Brake Ø 265 mm disc, 2-piston Brembo floating calliper, Cornering ABS
Instrumentation LCD Display
Dimensions And Weights
Dry Weight 199 kg (439 lb)
Kerb Weight 222 kg (489 lb)
Seat Height 830 mm (32.7 in) (850 mm (33.5 in) with high seat accessory, 810 mm (31.9 in) with low seat accessory,790 mm (31.1 in) with low seat + low suspension kit accessory)
Wheelbase 1,594 mm (62.8 in)
Rake / Trail 25° 106 mm (4.2 in)
Fuel Tank Capacity 20 l (5.3 US Gal)
Number Of Seats Dual seat
Equipment
Safety Equipment Riding Modes, Power Modes, Ducati Safety Pack ( Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control), Ducati Brake Light, Vehicle Hold Control
Standard Equipment Self cancelling turn indicators
Ready For Ducati Quick Shift up/down, Ducati Multimedia System, Antitheft system
Warranty And Maintenance
Warranty 24/48** months, Unlimited mileage
Maintenance Service Intervals 15,000 km (9,000 miles) / 12 months
Desmoservice 30,000 km (18,000 miles)
Emissions And Consumption (Only For Countries Where Euro 5 Standard Applies)
Standard Euro 5
Co2 Emissions 137 g/km
Consumption 5,9 l/100km
RRP $22,539 Ride Away

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2 S Technical Specifications

Multistrada V2 S Specifications
Engine
Type Ducati Testastretta, L-Twin cylinder, Desmodromic timing, 4 valves per cylinder, Liquid cooled
Displacement 937 cc (57.2 cu in)
Bore X Stroke 94 x 67.5 mm
Compression Ratio 12.6:1
Power 113 hp (83 kW) @ 9,000 rpm
Torque 96 Nm (9.8 kgm, 71 lb ft) @ 7,750 rpm 94 Nm (9.6 kgm, 69 lb ft) @ 6,750 rpm*
Fuel Injection Electronic fuel injection system, Ø 53 mm throttle bodies with Ride-by-Wire system
Exhaust Stainless steel single muffler, Catalytic converter and 2 lambda probes
Transmission
Gearbox 6 speed with Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS)
Primary Drive Straight cut gears; Ratio 1.84:1
Ratio 1=37/15, 2=30/17, 3=28/20, 4=26/22, 5=24/23, 6=23/24
Final Drive Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 43
Clutch Slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch with hydraulic control
Chassis
Frame Tubular steel trellis frame
Front Suspension Ø 48 mm fully adjustable usd fork, Electronic compression and rebound damping adjustment with Ducati Skyhook Suspension Evo
Front Wheel Light alloy casted 3.0″ x 19″
Front Tyre Pirelli Scorpion Trail II 120/70 ZR 19
Rear Suspension Fully adjustable monoshock, Electronic compression, rebound damping and spring pre-load adjustment with Ducati Skyhook Suspension Evo, Aluminium double-sided swingarm
Rear Wheel Light alloy casted 4.5″ x 17″
Rear Tyre Pirelli Scorpion Trail II 170/60 ZR 17
Wheel Travel (Front/Rear) 170 mm / 170 mm (6.7 in / 6.7 in)
Front Brake 2 x Ø 320 mm aluminum flange semi-floating discs, Radially mounted Brembo monobloc 4-piston 2-pad callipers, Radial Master Cylinder,  Cornering ABS
Rear Brake Ø 265 mm disc, 2-piston Brembo floating calliper,  Cornering ABS
Instrumentation 5″ TFT colour display
Dimensions And Weights
Dry Weight 202 kg (445 lb)
Kerb Weight* 225 kg (496 lb)
Seat Height 830 mm (32.7 in) (850 mm (33.5 in) with high seat accessory, 810 mm (31.9 in) with low seat accessory, 790 mm (31.1 in) with low seat + low suspension kit accessory)
Wheelbase 1,594 mm (62.8 in)
Rake / Trail 25° 106 mm (4.2 in)
Fuel Tank Capacity 20 l (5.3 US Gal)
Number Of Seats Dual seat
Equipment
Safety Equipment Riding Modes, Power Modes, Ducati Safety Pack ( Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control), Ducati Cornering Lights, Ducati Brake Light, Vehicle Hold Control
Standard Equipment Ducati Skyhook Suspension Evo, Ducati Quick Shift up/down, Cruise control, Hands-Free, Backlit handlebar switches, 5″ TFT colour display, Full LED headlight, Self cancelling turn indicators
Ready For Ducati Multimedia System, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Antitheft system
Warranty And Maintenance
Warranty 24/48** months, Unlimited mileage
Maintenance Service Intervals 15,000 km (9,000 miles) / 12 months
Desmoservice 30,000 km (18,000 miles)
Emissions & Consumption (Only For Countries Where Euro 5 Standard Applies)
Standard Euro 5
Co2 Emissions 137 g/km
Consumption 5,9 l/100km
RRP $25,190 Ride Away

Source: MCNews.com.au

Multistrada V2 models touring Down Under

The Ducati Multistrada 950 has become the V2 and will arrive in Australia early next year with more technology, engine upgrades and longer service intervals.

Ducati Australia says the starting price of the Multistrada V2 will be $22,539.00 ride away compared with the 950 at $21,500 while the Multistrada V2 S with semi-active suspension will start from $25,190, previously $24,000.

In the transition from a Multistrada 950 to a V2, as opposed to the flagship V4, the bike has been upgraded in several areas and weight decreased by 5kg.

The 937 cc Testastretta 11° engine is now claimed to be more “consistent and robust” with extended maintenance intervals of 15,000km oil changes and 30,000km desmodromic valve clearance checks.

Transmission has also been updated with a new eight-disc hydraulic clutch for “greater fluidity and precision in shifting” and an easier-to-find neutral.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2S
2022 Ducati Multistrada V2S

Ducati says they have made the Multistrada V2 more suitable for a wider range of rider sizes with a lower seat height down 10mm to 830mm.

It has also been shaped narrower so you can get your feet on the ground more easily.

If it’s still too high, you can buy an accessory lower seat and lowered suspension kit to drop the saddle height to 790mm.

Riders will also feel less cramped wth the footpegs lowered by 10mm.

Both models come in classic Ducati red with black rims while the Multistrada V2 S is also available in a new “Street Grey” livery with black frame and “GP Red” rims.

There are also two trim levels that can be ordered from the factory. Essential trim is available for both Multistrada V2 and Multistrada V2 S, while the Travel trim, with side bags, heated grips and central stand, can only be ordered for the S version.

2022 Ducati Multistrada V2S
2022 Ducati Multistrada V2S in Travel trim

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Ducati Muletto three-wheeler

Ducati Muletto

With Phil Aynsley


Italy is home to a plethora of small three-wheeled delivery vehicles of which the Piaggio/Vespa Ape (Bee) is by far the best known, the Bee entered production in 1948 and is still being produced! Most motorcycle manufacturers had one or more in their ranges and Ducati was no exception.

Ducati Muletto

In 1957 the company introduced the Muletto which was powered by a 175 cc OHV four-stroke motor that used many parts from the earlier Cruiser scooter. The following year the motor was enlarged to 200 cc. This had a carrying capacity of 350 kg and a top speed of 60 km/h. The gearbox had four forward ratios plus reverse. The 1958 model is what you see here.

Ducati Muletto

Versions were available with open, partially and fully enclosed cabs. The Muletto was not a big seller and was only produced for two years. However a new version was planned and reached engine prototype stage before being abandoned. I was able to photograph this at the factory in 2007.

200 cc Muletto prototype motor and drivetrain

The red stripe was a government requirement for transport/for-hire vehicles.

Ducati returned to the three-wheel market with the Fatterino which was produced from 1962 until 1965 and used a 48 cc two-stroke engine that was equipped with a fan attached to the crankshaft which forced air into an alloy shroud that covered the barrel and cylinder head. A three-speed gearbox was used. Again three cab configurations were available.

48 cc Fatterino motor

Source: MCNews.com.au

Ducati & Autosport Group team up for new Sydney dealership

New Ducati dealership coming to Alexandria


Ducati Australia are teaming up with the Autosports Group to further extend the Ducati dealer network, aiming to deliver a premium customer experience when the doors open to a flagship Ducati dealership in Sydney in January 2022.

A new Ducati flagship dealer is set to open in Alexandria, Sydney in January 2022

The Autosport Group have an existing relationship with other Volkswagen Group brands such as Audi, Lamborghini and Volkswagen, with over 40 retail businesses nationally are the custodians of more than 15 prestige automotive brands.

The partnership between Ducati and the Autosport Group  is set to deliver customers with additional Ducati support in the Sydney market. The flagship showroom that will be located on O’Riordan Street, Alexandria and will house the entire Ducati and Ducati Scrambler range of motorcycles. The two storey complex will also showcase the complete range of apparel and accessories in addition to aftersales services and trained technical personnel.

Sergi Canovas, Managing Director of Ducati ANZ

“We are thrilled to partner with the Autosport Gorup and bring their experience and passion to our Ducati customers. With their extensive experience representing the premium and performance brands of the Volkswagen Group we are confident that the Autosport Group will deliver a Ducati experience that meets our global benchmarks and exceeds customer expectation.”

Autosport Group, who also work with Lamborghini will be running the new premium dealership which will offer the whole Ducati range

The facility in Alexandria, New South Waler will be located at 85 O’Riordan Street and will open in January 2022.

Nick Pagent – Autosport Managing Director and CEO

“We are delighted to add Ducati to our long list of premium and performance brands. We look forward to opening the doors of our new showroom to passionate Ducatisti in January 2022 and delivering a whole new customer experience.”

Source: MCNews.com.au

WorldSBK Star Chaz Davies Announces Retirement

Chaz Davies, one of the most successful racers in the modern WorldSBK era, has announced his retirement from motorcycle racing at the end of the season. The decision brings an end to a decade-long spell in the World Superbike championship.

Davies, 34, made the announcement just days after his crash in last weekend’s Superpole race in Barcelona, where he sustained two broken ribs. “Unfortunately in some ways and fortunately in other ways, this will be my last season in WSBK,” said Davies. “It’s obviously a decision that’s not come easily and has taken a lot of thought. I’m a strong believer in ‘when you’re done, you’re done’, and the timing seemed right to make this decision. There are a lot of reasons behind it, and a lot of deliberation and wondering if it’s the right move.”

“But I’m confident, and happy and sad at the same time, that it is the right decision. I’m ready to turn the page and open the next chapter.”

Davies enjoyed a lot of success during his time at WorldSBK. Crash.net reports that the Welshman won 32 races since his 2012 debut and finished 2nd in the championship in 2015, 2017, and 2018. Before racing in WorldSBK, Davies took the World Supersport (WorldSSP) title in 2011.

In his debut WorldSBK season, he raced aboard a satellite Aprilia, winning his first race at the Nurburgring. In 2013, he switched to the factory BMW team, winning 3 races and finishing 5th in the championship. He moved to the Ducati team the following year, where he spent the next 7 years as Jonathan Rea’s closest competitor. 

His last few seasons weren’t as spectacular as the start of his career, as he took on a supporting role to Alvaro Bautista when the Ducati Panigale V4 R made its way into the championship. In 2021, the Ducati factory team promoted Italian youngster Michael Ruben Rinaldi to the factory team, swapping for Davies, who would race in the Go Eleven satellite team. 

Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Piaggio, And Vespa Will Be At EICMA 2021

After missing multiple races due to injury, Davies sits 12th in the riders’ standings. His last podium finish was back in May. Davies ends his WSBK career as the seventh-most successful rider in WSBK history in terms of race wins, with Rea and Tom Sykes being the only other active riders on the list. His 28 wins on a Ducati, meanwhile, put him only behind Carl Fogarty and Troy Bayliss.

In his statement, Davies said, “Although I am stepping away from a full-time WorldSBK seat, I don’t want to call this ‘retirement’ and will remain actively training and riding motorcycles. I love this sport, and inside I think I’ll always be the same fan I was at 10 years old.” As fans of the sports, we’ll certainly miss having him as part of the paddock next year.



Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Loris Baz to Replace Injured Chaz Davies for Jerez WorldSBK round

Loris Baz has been called up to return to WorldSBK to replace Chaz Davies at the Jerez round this weekend. This past weekend’s Superbike World Championship round at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya saw its fair share of crashes and injuries. Go Eleven Ducati’s Chaz Davies suffered the most significant blow. He ended up with two broken ribs after an incident with Puccetti Kawasaki rider Lucas Mahias in the opening laps of Sunday’s Superpole race. 

Loris Baz is no stranger to competing in WorldSBK. The Frenchman’s most recent outing was last year with the Ten Kate Yamaha team, where he finished 8th in the overall standings, picking up 4 podiums along the way. He didn’t continue in the Superbike Championship in 2021 and moved across the pond to race in MotoAmerica.

Loris-Baz-Replace-Injured-Chaz-Davies-WorldSBK-3

 

Incidentally, Baz races atop a Ducati Panigale V4 R as a privateer in MotoAmerica, so it’s a bike that he’ll be pretty familiar with this weekend at Jerez. He’s also enjoyed a reasonably triumphant season in America, with 8 podiums and an overall 4th in the championship standings.

“First of all, I want to wish Chaz a quick recovery, it’s never nice when a rider has an injury, and I hope he gets back on the bike soon.”, Baz said.

“I thank Team Go Eleven for the opportunity given, as well as Ducati and my team in America, HSBK, and Ducati New York, for letting me come back to Europe earlier than expected to be able to participate in the next WorldSBK races. It was a last-minute deal, I still have to fix everything to take the flight, but I can’t wait to be in Jerez, a track I really like, and get on the Superbike version of the Ducati V4 R. I’ll do my best and give 100% as always!”

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com