Tag Archives: Ducati

Rare Italian bikes highlight of auction

If you are a lover of rare Italian motorcycles and have overseas holiday money burning a hole in your wallet, the Bonhams Autumn Sale next month (9-10 October 2021) will no doubt be a temptation.

It features a collection of more than 40 motorcycles owned by the late acclaimed German film critic Hans Schifferle, including many rare Italian bikes led by my personal favourite, the 1974 Ducati 750 SS.

However, you will need to have a good line of credit or money in the bank as it is estimated to fetch between $A170,000 and $A245,000.

If that doesn’t scare you off, you should still check out our tips to make sure you don’t get caught out buying a dud or spending too much.

Auctions can be a fun experience and you can land yourself a real bargain. However, there are many pitfalls as well.

Click here to read our tips on buying at auction.

Ok, so now you know the advantages and pitfalls of auctions, let’s tempt you with some rare bikes owned by motorcycle connoisseur Hans Schifferle who died in March.

Hans Schifferle with his collection

Has and his wife, Gudrun, and friend, the former Grand Prix racer Helmut Lichtenberg, visited many of Europe’s  “autojumbles” at Imola, Mannheim, Stuttgart and Nuremberg to secure rare parts for his restorations.

Helmut did most of the work having run the classic motorcycle division at Schmid Höhenkirchen where Hans bought many of his bikes.

Hans ensured he rode all his bikes at least 3000km a year to keep them in top mechanical order.

His collection not only includes are Italian gems, but also some British and American models.

My all-time favourite, the 1974 Ducati 750 SS, is the most expensive of the lot.

1974 Ducati 750 SS
1974 Ducati 750 SS

It is the model that powered Paul Smart to victory at the Imola 200 in 1972.

The Ducati 750 SS featured central-axle forks, Brembo front brakes and a cockpit faring.

This 1974 launch year motorcycle was acquired by Schifferle 2002 and has correct numbers and stamps.

1973 MV Agusta 750 GT
1973 MV Agusta 750 GT

Another ultra-rare Italian highlight is the 1973 MV Agusta 750 GT estimated to fetch up to $A95,000.

Only 50 models in white and bronze were sold due to its initial high price tag.

This bike is one of the most sought-after MV roadsters and one of few not modified or converted into a ‘special’.

Other highlights include a 1941 Indian 1,279cc Four (up to $A95,000), a 1955 Vincent 998CC Black Knight (up to $A68,000), a circa 1973 Slater ‘Egli-Vincent’ 998cc (up to $A68,000) and a relatively cheap 1956 Harley Davidson KH (up to $A15,000).

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Panigale V2 Bayliss Anniversary Edition enters production

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

Production of the Panigale V2 Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary, the numbered series motorcycle that Ducati has built to pay homage to the legendary career of Troy Bayliss twenty years after his conquest of the 2001 Superbike World Championship, has begun at the Borgo Panigale factory. Starting from October the bike will start to filter out to Ducati dealerships in Europe but Australian stocks of the machine are not expected to arrive until January, 2022.

This unique model immediately entered the hearts of Troy fans around the world. In fact, since the first days after the presentation at the WSBK race in Assen, the bike has been ordered by many fans, already covering a large part of the production for the coming months.

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

Troy is loved by the Italians like one of their own, and he loves them right back in spades and the relationship between himself and Ducati is a true family affair.

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

52 victories, 94 podiums and three world titles (2001, 2006 and 2008) won with three different bikes: the twin-cylinder 996 R, the 999 R and the 1098 R. Troy Bayliss is the only motorcycle racer in history to win MotoGP and World Superbike races in the same season (2006).

This special edition was anticipated as we approach the 20th anniversary of the first of Troy’s three World Superbike Championship crowns and while most had expected it to be a new limited-edition V4, of course it is only right and correct that this bike is a traditional Ducati L-Twin. It is not a limited-edition and will be available to order through Ducati dealers for the foreseeable future.

It is not a 996, 998 or 1098 from history, but a special edition based on the 155 horsepower 955 cc model that is part of Ducati’s current line-up.

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

Of course it wears some sexy livery commemorating Troy’s win that recalls the clothes worn by that first title winning 996 R, but also comes with a few extras to boot and is 3 kg lighter.

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

It’s a single-seater with Ohlins TTX36 and NIX30 suspension components and adjustable Ohlins steering damper along with a sprinkle of extra carbon-fibre and titanium.

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

Troy’s autograph is reproduced on the fuel tank, while the billet aluminium triple clamp shows the name of the bike and the progressive numbering of this unique model.

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

The motorcycle is also equipped with self-cleaning brake and clutch pumps with smoke grey oil tanks.

The electronic package, dedicated to active safety and vehicle dynamics control, includes the “cornering” function applied to Bosch ABS, the electronic quick shift that also works when downshifting and traction, engine brake and wheelie controls (Ducati Quick Shift, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control, Engine Brake Control).

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

All the controls are integrated into the three Riding Modes (Race, Sport and Street) that can be modified using the 4.3″ colour TFT dashboard with graphics and interface designed to make menu navigation and settings adjustment intuitive, as well as immediate identification of the selected Riding Mode.

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

The World Superbike universe will also pay tribute to Bayliss’s career this weekend at Assen. On Sunday 25 July after the SuperPole Race, the Panigale V2 Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary will complete a lap of honour on the track, ridden by Aruba.it Racing – Ducati Team rider Michael Ruben Rinaldi, who competes in WorldSBK with the same number as Bayliss.

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

The twentieth anniversary of Troy Bayliss winning his first title with Ducati is being celebrated in Borgo Panigale with a temporary exhibition in the Museo Ducati entitled “Troy Story: The Legend of a Champion” which exhibits the bikes with which Troy was able to write some memorable chapters in the history of motorcycle racing. The exhibition can be visited until 19 September 2021 (here more information on visits to the Museo Ducati).

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

The Panigale V2 Bayliss 1st Championship 20th Anniversary will be available in Australian Ducati dealerships from January 2022 at $27,489.

Ducati Panigale V2 Troy Bayliss 20th Anniversary Edition

Specifications

ENGINE
TYPE Superquadro: L-twin cylinder, 4 valve per cylinder, Desmodromic, liquid cooled
DISPLACEMENT 955 cc
BORE X STROKE 100 x 60,8 mm
COMPRESSION RATIO 12.5:1
POWER 114 kW (155 hp) @ 10.750 rpm
TORQUE 104 Nm (76,7 lb-ft) @ 9.000 rpm
FUEL INJECTION Electronic fuel injection system. Twin injectors per cylinder. Full ride-by-wire elliptical throttle bodies
EXHAUST 2-1-2-1 system, with 2 catalytic converters and 2 lambda probes
TRANSMISSION
GEARBOX 6 speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2
PRIMARY DRIVE Straight cut gears; Ratio 1.77:1
RATIO 1=37/15 2=30/16 3=27/18 4=25/20 5=24/22 6=23/24
FINAL DRIVE Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 43
CLUTCH Hydraulically controlled slipper and self-servo wet multiplate
clutch. Self bleeding master cylinder
CHASSIS
FRAME Monocoque Aluminium
FRONT SUSPENSION Öhlins NIX30 43mm with TiN treatment, fully adjustable usd fork
FRONT WHEEL 5-spokes light alloy 3.50″ x 17″
FRONT TYRE Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II 120/70 ZR17
REAR SUSPENSION Fully adjustable Öhlins TTX36 monoshock. Aluminum single-sided swingarm
REAR WHEEL 5-spokes light alloy 5,50” x 17”
REAR TYRE Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II 180/60 ZR17
WHEEL TRAVEL (FRONT/REAR) 120 mm (4.72 in) – 130 mm (5.12 in)
FRONT BRAKE 2 x 320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc M4.32 4-piston callipers with Bosch Cornering ABS EVO. Self bleeding master cylinder
REAR BRAKE 245 mm disc, 2-piston calliper with Bosch Cornering ABS EVO
INSTRUMENTATION Digital unit with 4,3″ TFT colour display
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHTS
DRY WEIGHT 174,5 kg (385 lb)
KERB WEIGHT* 197 kg (434 lb)
SEAT HEIGHT 835 mm (32,9 in)
WHEELBASE 1.438 mm (56,6 in)
RAKE 24°
TRAIL 99 mm (3.90 in)
FUEL TANK CAPACITY 17 l – 4.5 gallon (US)
NUMBER OF SEATS Dual seat
EQUIPMENT
SAFETY EQUIPMENT Riding Modes, Power Modes, Bosch Cornering ABS EVO, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO, Auto tyre calibration
STANDARD EQUIPMENT Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2, Full LED lighting with Daytime Running Light (DRL), Öhlins steering damper, Auto-off indicators, Lithium-ion battery, Silencer outlet cover in carbon fibre and titanium
ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT Passenger seat and footpegs kit
READY FOR Ducati Data Analyser+ (DDA+) with GPS module, Ducati Multimedia System (DMS) and anti-theft
WARRANTY AND MAINTENANCE
WARRANTY 24 months unlimited mileage
MAINTENANCE SERVICE INTERVALS 12,000 km (7,500 mi) / 12 months
DESMOSERVICE 24,000 km (15,000 mi)
EMISSIONS AND CONSUMPTION (Only for countries where Euro 5 standard applies)
STANDARD Euro 5
CO2 EMISSIONS 139 g/km
CONSUMPTION 6 l/100km

Image Gallery

Source: MCNews.com.au

Ducati expands Aussie dealer network

Australia is the second-most saturated market for Ducati ownership in the world, so the company pays a lot of attention to its Aussie customers.

That means there are more Aussie Ducati owners per head of population than anywhere in the world outside of Italy.

Consequently, the Bologna company showed a lot of respect for the Australian importers NF Importers (Frasers) over the years.

This was demonstrated by the fact that a Monster 659 was produced years ago specifically to comply with our learner-approved motorcycle scheme (LAMS).

The 659 is now a popular staple of their Monster line-up.

In 2020, Ducati took over direct importing of their bikes into Australian and New Zealand.

Sergi Canovas on Ducati XDiavel benefits to customers
Sergi Canovas

At the time, new subsidiary boss Sergi Canovas told us his first priority would be to make sure that dealer network is operating properly with training and communication and their presence in the market was maximised.

To this end, Ducati is expanding its dealer network with a second Melbourne dealership in January 2022 with the addition of Ducati Melbourne West at Essendon Fields, operated by the Preston Motors Group.

PMG dealer at 295 Wirraway Road, Essendon Fields

PMG is one of the longest established motor vehicle retailers in Australia and has an existing and relationship with Porsche which is part of the Volkswagen Group which includes Ducati.

Ducati Melbourne West will stock the entire Ducati and Ducati Scrambler range of motorcycles, all Ducati spares and accessories, and provide after-sales services with trained technical personnel.

A front view of the new 2022 MV Agusta Brutale 1000 RS

Sergi says PMG’s long association with Porsche gave him confidence in their ability to “deliver the passion, experience and expertise that reflects the global Ducati dealer network”. 

“With a large and passionate community of Ducatisti existing in Melbourne, we once again prove that we are committed to seeing the community continue to grow with the addition of a key state of the art dealership,” he says.

PMG boss Robert Gattereder says he is also a passionate motorcyclist.

“I am thrilled to introduce motorcycles to our organisation and I very much look forward to enjoying the passion that exists within the Ducati family and community. Our aim is to make it a flagship site in Victoria and a destination for Ducatisti”. 

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Ducati teams up with PGM for new Melbourne location

Ducati Melbourne West to launch in Essendon Fields in 2022


With the Ducati subsidiary taking over in Australia last year came a commitment to extend the Ducati dealer network, with a focus on customer satisfaction and support. In line with that Ducati have teamed up with PGM to open Ducati Melbourne West in January 2022

Ducati Melbourne West will feature the full Ducati range

One of the longest established motor vehicle retailers in Australia, PMG have an existing and established relationship with Porsche, a brand that is part of the Volkswagen Group like Ducati. Having built a legacy with customer experience and performance at its core, the partnership between Ducati and PMG promises to deliver customers with additional Ducati support in Victoria.

In a facility that will spread across the Essendon Fields site, customers will be provided with services to support a premium customer experience. Ducati Melbourne West will showcase the entire Ducati and Ducati Scrambler range of motorcycles, after sales services and trained technical personnel. In addition, the facility will also house the complete range of apparel and accessories of both the Ducati and the Ducati Scrambler brands.

Sergi Canovas – Managing Director of Ducati ANZ

“We are beyond proud to partner with PMG and bring their passion and expertise to the Ducati network. After a long association with Porsche, we are confident in PMG’s ability to deliver the passion, experience and expertise that reflects the global Ducati dealer network. With a large and passionate community of Ducatisti existing in Melbourne, we once again prove that we are committed to seeing the community continue to grow with the addition of a key state of the art dealership.”

Robert Gattereder – PMG Chief Executive Officer, Robert Gattereder

“We are excited to add another premium and prestige brand to our stable and look forward to exceeding customer expectations. As a passionate motorcyclist, I am thrilled to introduce motorcycles to our organisation and I very much look forward to enjoying the passion that exists within the Ducati family and community. Our aim is to make it a flagship site in Victoria and a destination for Ducatisti.”

The facility in Essendon, Victoria will be located at 295 Wirraway Road, Essendon Fields and will open in January 2022.

The Ducati Scrambler range will also be represented, along with the accessories and apparel ranges

Source: MCNews.com.au

New Ducati Monster ‘937’ arrives in Australia

2021 Ducati Monster now available


The new Ducati Monster ‘937’ is now available in both Australia and New Zealand from $18,200 ride-away and if you’re not in lockdown, you can head to your local Ducati dealer for a test ride.

The new Monster is fitted with a 111 hp Testastretta 11° engine, which it shares with the latest Supersport 950.

2021 Ducati Monster+

Ducati are calling this the lightest, most compact Monster yet, representing the epitome of the Monster line, even if it does feature a double-sided swingarm. Hence the name, just Ducati Monster, or Monster+ if you’re after the extras, with no number designation.

Euro5 homologated, the engine boosts capacity over the outgoing 821, offering more power and torque while slimming down weight by 2.4 kg. The main gain is in torque which is up to 93 Nm from 85.4, while power is bumped up a couple of ponies and their should be some instant urge thanks to a high 13.3:1 compression ratio.  A slip and assist clutch is also fitted.

The new Monster runs the same powerplant as the SuperSport 950

The frame is based on the design of the Panigale V4, with an aluminium front frame attached directly to the heads, weighing only 3 kg, or 60 per cent less than the previous traditional trellis style unit.

The rims likewise have been shaved down to save 1.7 kg, while the swingarm loses 1.6 kg. The subframe uses Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer technology to save a further 1.9 kg, with a total of 18 kg saved over the Monster 821, bringing the 2021 Ducati Monster to just 166 kg dry.

Weight savings are seen in the new frame, rims, swingarm and sub-frame

The new Monster is suspended by 43 mm USD forks, while a progressive linkage and preload adjustable monoshock handle the rear of the bike via an aluminium double-sided swingarm.

Brakes are Brembo M4.32 monoblock four-piston units, with semi-floating 320 mm rotors, and a radial master cylinder. At the rear you’ll find a 245 mm rotor with Brembo two-piston floating caliper.

Brakes are Brembo M4.32 calipers

Seat height is now 820 mm with a narrow design between the legs, ensuring an easy reach to the ground. A lower 800 mm accessory seat is also available. For those who need the bike lower still Ducati offer a lowered suspension kit which can further lower the seat height to 775 mm in conjunction with the low seat, but that will of course have trade offs in suspension travel and compliance.

The steering angle has been increased to 36°, up 7° compared to the 821, benefiting low speed maneuvering, with handlebars 70 mm closer to the rider and more upright for better control and comfort. The rider’s feet have also been moved, with Ducati stating ‘the legs are now less curled up’.

Lighting is LED with bars moved back towards the rider

An extensive electronics package includes cornering ABS, traction control and wheelie control as standard, alongside launch control. Ride modes include Sport, Urban and Touring, with electronics controlled via the switchblocks and current settings and speed viewed via a 4.3 TFT display that includes tacho and gear.

Other standard fitment tech includes the Ducati Quick Shift system, full LED lighting, including dynamic indicators and a USB socket for charging personal devices.

On the Monster+ we see a fly screen and passenger seat cover included. Service intervals are 15,000 km or every 12 months, while Desmoservice is every 30,000 km.

2021 Ducati Monster+ in Ducati Red

The 2021 Ducati Monster will be available in Ducati Red and Dark Stealth with black wheels, or in Aviator Grey with GP Red wheels. The Monster+ will be available in the same colours.

The new Monster is available in Australia with a starting price of $18,200 Ride Away.

The Monster with personalised plastic covers

To test ride the new Ducati Monster, find your authorised Ducati dealer here (link).

2021 Ducati Monster Specifications

Specifications
Engine Testatretta 11°, V2 – 90°, 4 valves per cylinder, desmodromic valvetrain, liquid cooled, 937 cc (57 cu in)
Bore x Stroke 94 mm x 67.5 mm
Compression Ratio 13.3:1
Claimed Power 111 hp (82 kW) @ 9,250 rpm
Claimed Torque 9.5 kgm (93 Nm, 69 lb ft) @ 6,500 rpm
Induction Electronic fuel injection system, Ø 53 mm throttle bodies with Ride-by-Wire system
Gears Six-speed
Clutch Slipper and self-servo multiplate wet clutch with hydraulic control
Frame Aluminum alloy Front Frame
Forks Ø 43 mm USD fork
Shock Progressive linkage, preload adjustable monoshock, aluminium double-sided swingarm
Tyres Pirelli Diablo Rosso III 120/70 ZR17, 180/55 ZR17
Front Brakes 2 x Ø 320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo M4.32 monobloc 4-piston callipers, radial master cylinder, Cornering ABS
Rear Brake Ø 245 mm disc, Brembo 2-piston floating calliper, Cornering ABS
Electronics Riding Modes, Power Modes, Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control, Daytime Running Light
Standard Equipment Ducati Quick Shift, Ducati Power Launch, 4.3″ TFT colour display, Full LED headlight and lighting system, Dynamic turn indicators, USB power socket
Instrumentation 4.3″ TFT colour display
Dry Weight 166 kg (366 lb)
Kerb Weight 188 kg (414 lb)
Seat Height 820 mm (32.3 in)
800 mm (31.5 in) (accessory low seat)
775 mm (30.5 in) (accessory low seat + low suspension kit)
Wheelbase 1,474 mm (58.0 in)
Rake / Trail 24° / 93 mm (3.7 in)
Fuel Capacity 14 l (3.7 US gal)
Service Intervals 15,000 km (9,000 miles) / 12 months
Desmoservice 30,000 km (18,000 miles)
Warranty 24-month, unlimited kilometre
Available TBA
Price From $18,200 ride away

Source: MCNews.com.au

Ducati Monster 937 arrives Down Under

Missing the iconic trellis frame and L-shaped cam covers, the controversially styled Ducati Monster 937 has arrived in Australia with very competitive pricing.

Slotting in between the 821 and 1200 Monsters, the 937 actually costs less than the previous 821 at just $18,200 ride away ($NZ18860).

It comes in Ducati Red (black wheels), Aviator Grey (red wheels) and Dark Stealth (black wheels). There will also be an exclusive ‘Plus’ version, which adds an aerodynamic windscreen and passenger seat cover to the standard fittings.

The new Monster is powered by a 937cc Testastretta 11° twin engine in a lightweight monocoque aluminium frame, featuring fully adjustable ABS Cornering, Traction Control and Wheelie Control. 

Power-to-weight ratio has been improved over the 821 thanks to a 188kg wet weight which is a whopping 18kg lighter.

2021 Monster

The new hybrid monocoque frame with a fibreglass-reinforced polymer subframe saves most of that weight.

However, the loss of the iconic trellis frame and L-shaped cam covers has many Ducatisti asking whether it is a true Monster.

While the original round headlight was ditched ages ago, this model has a slightly rounder looking headlight with an LED ring to pay homage to the originals.

Ducati Monster 937
Ducati Monster 937

When the new Monster was revealed in December last year, it attracted a lot of criticism and concern that the style trend would expand to the learner-sized 659 and flagship 1200 models.

The Queensland Italian Bike Addicts facebook page even ran a poll asking fans whether they prefer the design of the new Monster or a garbage truck. Guess which won!

A quarter of a century ago, the Monster took the motorcycle and design world by storm with its muscular naked looks, making a highlight of the frame and L-twin. 

It even featured in the landmark 1998 Guggenheim Museum exhibition in New York, ‘The Art of the Motorcycle’ and is included in the current one-off, world exclusive” Motorcycle: Design: Art, Desire exhibit at Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) running until 26 April 2021.

In recent years the full trellis frame has been whittled down to a shorter frame attached to the cylinder head with a separate subframe.Ducati Monster 937

While photographs can be deceiving, I’ve now seen the 937 in the flesh/metal and it unfortunately looks like most Japanese naked bikes, particularly the popular Yamaha MT models.

However, that power-to-weight ratio should make for an engaging ride!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Father’s Day gift ideas for the Ducatisti

Ducati inspired Father’s Day gift ideas


Father’s Day is fast approaching and Ducati has some great gift ideas for the Ducatisti dad, whether you’re looking for some apparel so he can show that Ducati pride everywhere he goes, or so you can keep in touch while he’s out on a ride.

That includes the Ducati Corse Tee and Ducati Corse Backpack for the dad with a keen interest in racing, or the Ducati Company Cap for a more traditional look. The Ducati Communication System meanwhile, is the ultimate gift for if you’ve got extra to thank dad for this year.

Here’s a look at some options, with an even larger range to browse at the Ducati website, or if you’re lucky enough not to be in lockdown, you can drop into your local Ducati store.


Ducati Corse Tee

Grab dad this technical T-Shirt with highly breathable and fast drying fabric, making it ideal for everyday use and the warmer weather we’ve got on the way. Eco-compatible, it efficiently wicks away moisture while keeping the body dry. The Ducati Corse Tee is available for $59.00 RRP.

Ducati Corse Tee
Ducati Corse Tee

Ducati Communication System

The Ducati Communication System V2 by Cardo is an intercom for riders who want to travel in groups as well as for the technology enthusiast who want to use their device safely, without taking their hands off the motorcycle controls. The Ducati Communication System V2 allows the use of voice commands, as well as syncing for navigation instructions, taking calls or to communicate with passengers or other riders in your group who’ve also got a comms system fitted and paired up. The Ducati Communication System V2 is available for $517.27 RRP.

Ducati Communication System
Ducati Communication System

Ducati Corse Backpack

An extremely light and versatile multipurpose bag with practical double cord closure and metal reinforcements in the corners, the Ducati Corse Backpack is the ideal accessory to accompany Ducatistas in every adventure.  The backpack measures in an 34 x 44 cm offering a decent amount of storage and is just $18.18 RRP.

Ducati Corse Backpack
Ducati Corse Backpack

Ducati Company Cap

For a classic clean look, that is simply Ducati, you can’t go past the Ducati Company Cap. Iconic colours, fabric and 3D embroidery combine for a timeless style, making it the perfect gift for all occasions, for $31.77 RRP.

Ducati Company Cap
Ducati Company Cap

Shop now at your authorised Ducati dealer or check out the full range at the Ducati website.

Source: MCNews.com.au

Fifth Annual Dario Sebaste Trophy To Be Held In Italy’s Beautiful Countryside

In 1922, a group of passionate motorcyclists decided to hold an amateur race, christened “8 of the Langhe”.

The route took riders from Cherasco to Narzole, past the Dolcetto di Dogliani vineyards and the typical Murazzano tomes.

A view of The Langhe, Piedmont, Italy.
The Langhe, Piedmont, Italy.

It wound through Calizzano, with the path twisting and turning beyond the Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena, through the San Bernardino Pass and the province of Valle Tanaro, up a beautiful ascent to Garessio.

A view of Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena
Castelvecchio di Rocca Barbena, Italy.

A quick break for well-made vittles at the popular Locanda del Mulino Val Casotto taverna, and onward by the Torre di Mondovì commune, to the Vicoforte Sanctuary of the Nativity of Mary, with an eventual finish in Cherasco at Salmour in the dome of the Parco dei Giganti where the competitors were to be awaited by the timekeepers.

The dome of the Parco dei Giganti
The dome of the Parco dei Giganti, Italy.

A gorgeous route – and one that came to an unfortunate halt in 1949. 

Where am I going with this, do you ask?

Well. 

Dario Sebaste; Italian nougat/hazelnut factory owner and ardent Moto Guzzi collector.
Dario Sebaste; Italian nougat/hazelnut factory owner and ardent Moto Guzzi collector.

According to a report from RideApart, an Italian nougat/hazelnut factory owner named Dario Sebaste was an ardent Moto Guzzi collector of his time and paid homage to this gorgeous piece of vintage moto history during his life.

With his passing in the 2010s, locals revived the race in his honor, calling it “The Dario Sebaste Trophy,” with the first race held in 2016.

A view of riders preparing for the fifth annual Dario Sebaste Trophy amateur vintage motorcycle race.

Today, the Dario Sebaste Trophy attracts bikers from all over the country – with a special emphasis on riding vintage motorbikes. 

The four-day race does wonders for the area’s local communities, as it brings in extra funds to families that would otherwise rely on typical local income.

A side profile of the 3D blueprints of the Moto Xtreme 250 spreading around the internet

A view of riders at the final landmark of the fifth annual Dario Sebaste Trophy amateur vintage motorcycle race.

Supported by the Amici Vecchie Moto di Sommariva Bosco, the Roero club, and the Club Ruote d’Epoca di Cherasco, the “four-leaf clover” course covers a wide expanse of land – up to 200km (124 miles) per day.

Care to be one of the 62 riders participating for next year?

A rider preparing to attend the fifth annual Dario Sebaste Trophy

Expect to see a slew of Moto Guzzi, Gilera, MV Agusta, Aermacchi, and Ducati brand bikes from an older era, as well as an iconic bike from Sebaste’s own collection, to be fired up at the third leg of the course. 

The race starts August 26 and runs through August 29, 2021 – so make sure to check back for updates on the lucky winner of the fifth annual Dario Sebaste Trophy!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Valentino Rossi: A Full MotoGP Retirement

Italian professional motorcycle road racer and multiple-time MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi will officially retire from the MotoGP scene, effective at the end of the 2021 season. 

The news came announced via live coverage on MotoGP’s website, alongside the report that the young Italian made his decision in the shadows of the Styrian GP, where he first won a podium during his 125cc class debut in the Grand Prix motorcycling scene of 1996.

a view of Valentino Rossi during his 1996 125cc win at the Grand Prix
A view of Valentino Rossi during his 1996 125cc win at the Grand Prix
-Credit, Lalasport.

According to a release from Motorsport, Rossi has been hauling podiums with his decorated self for 26 seasons, making him one of the most iconic racers of our time. 

Of the years he has been leaning into track twisties, Rossi has competed in a total of 414 races – 115 of which stand strong as Grand Prix victories. 

Valentino Rossi at his first premiere with the Honda Racing Team's NSR500
Valentino Rossi at his first premiere with the Honda Racing Team’s NSR500
– Credit, Motor Sport Magazine

After his first win in the 250cc class of 1998 (The Dutch TT), Rossi signed on to Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) – and a very nice factory NSR500 – winning the first of his seven premiere titles for Y2K in what was then the highest class in World Championship motorcycle racing.

His success continued into his riding for the Honda REPSOL team at the MotoGP World Championship, carrying him into victories for both the 2003 and 2004 years, before he made an abrupt about-face switch to Yamaha in 2004. 

Valentino Rossi riding for Yamaha in the 2004 season on the YZR-M1
Valentino Rossi riding for Yamaha in his victorious 2004 season on the YZR-M1 – Credit, MCN.

With the Yamaha YZR-M1, Rossi made headlines again, blasting past Max Biaggi and securing a win for the Yamaha team in both the 2004 and 2005 seasons. 

 Despite a series of further wins for the young racer in 2008 and 2009, Rossi’s career came to a pause when he broke his leg, putting aside any hopes invested in the Italian 2010 title. 

2011 saw Valentino healing from the broken leg, as well as undergo surgery for a shoulder injury. He signed on to the big guns during this time with a move to red on a two-year Ducati contract. 

Valentino Rossi riding for Ducati in his 2011-2013 seasons with Ducati.
Valentino Rossi riding for the red team in his 2011-2013 seasons with Ducati.
– Credit, Visordown.

2011 was Rossi’s first winless season – the first time in his Grand Prix career – and the battles on the track were harder than ever.

His best finish on a Ducati to date was in his 2012 season in France, when he beat the Tech3 riders and finished second place. 

Rossi also experienced similar successes that year with his time on the track at Le Mans of San Marino (many contribute these successes in part to the new and improved swingarm and frame sliders installed on his Ducati around this time).

Valentino Rossi battling Stoner during his race at Le Mans in Misano, 2012.
Valentino Rossi battling Stoner during his race at Le Mans in Misano, 2012.
– Credit, MotorcycleSport.

Rossi soon rejoined the Yamaha team, where he was to stay until the present date.  During his 2014-2021 seasons with Yamaha, Rossi and fellow teammate Maverick Vinales struggled a bit with their racebikes, leaving the racers feeling frustrated and less than satisfied on the track.

Despite this, Rossi continued to secure a few wins, taking the podium twice in 2014. 

In 2015 the drama mounted when Rossi accused Marc Marquez of conspiring with Jorge Lorenzo to can his potential for Australia. The resulting consequence had the Italian in a back-of-the-grid start for the Valencia finale. 

Valentino Rossi criticizes Marc Marquez for working against him on and off the track.
Valentino Rossi criticizes Marc Marquez for working against him on and off the track.
– Credit, The Race.

Rossi’s further wins were dwindling; the Italian secured two wins for 2016, then one in 2017 (The Dutch TT). His podiums also were less frequent, from five podiums in 2018 to two in 2019, and a final podium last year at the second race of Andalucia. 

Despite the chaos and beauty that naturally accompanies the stats of a racer’s career, Valentino Rossi is an amazingly talented man.

With his generous personality and competition with Biaggi, Sete Gibernau, Casey Stoner, and Lorenzo, Rossi helped create a MotoGP that, today, is seen and loved by all.

“I have made my decision for next year – and I have decided to stop after the end of the season.  Unfortunately, this will be my last season as a MotoGP rider”, says Rossi in a live coverage.

“It was great and I had an unforgettable moments with my team, with all my guys that worked for me. Molto, molto bueno. ”

a view of Valentino Rossi, speaking at a press conference.
Valentino Rossi, speaking at a press conference.
– Credit, Crash.

The young racer will always live in our hearts, as well as through his recent work with the VR46 Riders Academy, founded in 2014.

Big names have arisen from this academy – including Morbidelli, Bagnaia, Marini, Bezzecchi, Nicolo Bulega, Niccolò Antonelli, Andrea Migno, Celestino Vietti, Lorenzo Baldassarri, Stefano Manzi, Dennis Foggia and others – and we look forward to the amazing moment that Valentino Rossi’s VR46 team graces the MotoGP stage, in 2022. 

Stay tuned for updates, and make sure to check out Rossi’s Sky Racing Team VR46.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Sport Production Ducati Street Fighter In The Works

If there’s one thing Ducati is good at, it’s putting a big price tag on a pretty engine – and they’ve started work on a new SP model.

According to a report from MCN, a set of American Emissions Documents has given away the fact that Ducati is in the works of making an SP version of their popular Streetfighter V4 S

a side view of the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S, in anticipation of a new SP model
The Ducati Streetfighter V4 S

While this may not come as a complete surprise, the exact details on what is getting updated have yet to be released. 

Despite this, we can still compare the information we have been given against the other SP Ducati models to guesstimate updates that will be installed under the proverbial hood. 

A side view of the Ducati Streetfighter V4 S in Black Stealth
The Ducati Streetfighter V4 S in black livery

We’ve been told the power and range of the hyper naked will be the same, which means the shiny bits of new technology that inevitably follow every Ducati release will be the buggers contributing to the steep price tag. 

Suppose the updates are anything like the Panigale V4 SP model that Ducati released.

a front-side view of the Ducati Panigale V4 SP
The Ducati Panigale V4 SP

In that case, we’ll be getting a very lovely set of Stylema R calipers, an MCS master cylinder, carbon fiber wheels, and probably something like a dry clutch conversion to keep the traditional Ducati rumble and roar. 

A View of the Motul 300V Factory Line Racing Kit Oil 2376H 0W-30 ESTER Core® next to a Honda Racebike

There’s also a couple of zero’s to chew on if we’re comparing the Panigale V4 S to the price tag of the V4 SP model. The Panigale V4 SP costs £32,295 in the UK – that’s a stiff £7000 more than the original V4 S model. 

a back-side view of the Ducati Panigale V4 SP

Expect the Streetfighter V4 SP to have a similar rise in price and for the release of the bike to hit later this year, given the EICMA tradeshow (the probable location of the new Streetfighter V4 SP reveal) has purportedly been delayed until November due to ongoing restrictions.
We’ll keep you posted, so make sure to check back regularly!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com