In this issue: PANIGALE V2 TEST V4 R SBK TEST 848 EVO: THE STORY MOTOGP/SBK 2020

SUPERMOTO ITALIANE - FEBRUARY 2020 MONDODUCATI DOSSIER

In this issue: PANIGALE V2 04 DIABLO CORSA 20 V4 IMPRESSIVE DEBUT 22 THE WORLD'S BEST-SELLING SUPERBIKE 26 MEMORABILIA 30 THE NEW COMPANY'S BOARD OF MANAGEMENT 32 DUCATI LEAD THE "MOTOR VALLEY" ASSOCIATION 34 EVO 40 SUPERBIKE 50 ANDREA DOVIZIOSO 60

Issue 1 Redazione: Fotolito: FEBRUARY 2020 Franco Bartoli La Nuova Lito - Firenze [email protected] SUPERMOTO ITALIANE Marco Rainero Editore: Registrata presso [email protected] FBA - Via U. Rattazzi, 2/E/1 il tribunale di Firenze con 50136 Firenze il n° 5554 il 20/02/2007 Hanno collaborato a questo numero: [email protected] Stefano Cordara Direttore Responsabile: Matteo Gucci Carlo Bartoli Giorgio Tedioli [email protected]

2 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 3 by Stefano Cordara

A FAMILY MEMBER

4 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 5 To call it a mid-range bike is a bit hard, in consideration of its price tag, output and performance, but one of the strengths of the new Panigale V2 lies in its outstanding balance. Powerful, agile, fun to drive, it can be pushed to the limit effortlessly.

ince Ducati superbikes the performance of a maxi-bike with the have been around (at least steering agility and precision of a mid- from the 916 onwards), the dleweight machine. Introduced to the manufacturer has always public at Eicma 2019, the V2 represents released “small” siblings of the continual evolution of a project con- Sthese motorbikes. The 916 was suc- sidered vital by Ducati itself. ceeded by the 748, the 999 by the 749, The previous 959 model constitutes the 1098 was followed by the 848, the the starting point, as the Panigale V2 Panigale 1199 was added the 899 and retains its mechanical layout and the 959 models. iconic V-twin 955 cc Superquadro engine The guys at Borgo Panigale call them (well appreciated by Ducati purists!) “super-middleweight” bikes, and they Without being affected by the limita- have proven to be quite successful tions set forth by the new Euro 5 stand- among the public over the years as many ards (it is actually the first Ducati engine fans, thanks to these motorcycles, have to comply with it), this V-twin is even been able to access the rarefied realm of more brilliant than its predecessor, as Ducati superbikes. it gets a claimed 5 hp bump (with peak While retaining the superbikes’ char- output going from 150 to 155 hp) and ismatic soul, these bikes offer a less a slight increase in torque (from 102 to extreme (albeit no less fun) ride and 104 Nm). increased versatility for road use. On the other hand, the chassis has The same thing happens with the new been enriched with the addition of a sin- VIEW MORE PHOTOS Panigale V2, which is able to combine gle-sided , the same mounted

6 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 7 Panigale V2

Colour Ducati Red with black wheels

Main as-standard features: New design Euro 5 compliant 955 cm³ Superquadro engine Under-engine silencer with single side end pipe Aluminium monocoque frame Aluminium single-sided swingarm Fully adjustable 43 mm Showa Big Piston Fork (BPF) Fully adjustable Sachs shock Sachs steering damper Electronics package with 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (6D IMU): ABS Cornering EVO; Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2; Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO; Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS) EVO 2; Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO Riding Modes (Race, Sport, Street) 17-litre steel tank Full-TFT 4.3” colour dashboard Full-LED headlight with DRL Two-seater configuration Braking system with M4.32 monobloc cali- pers Wheels with new 5-spoke design Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II tyres (rear 180/60) Ready for: Ducati Lap Timer GPS (DLT GPS), Ducati Multimedia System (DMS), Ducati Data Analyser+ GPS (DDA+ GPS)

on the 1299, as well as by a new compact as well, by equipping the bike with a new body and the mind; on the other one, the exhaust that allows full view of the rear and softer seat, which is also 20 mm medium-sized bikes, whose selling points wheel, thus enormously improving the longer than the previous model in order are contained weight and handleability, look of the motorcycle. to improve mobility, especially sideways. with engines delivering not-so-extreme The numbers of the chassis are slightly Sporting such characteristics and a values. different too: While the inter-axis is 5 curb weight of 200 kg with full tank, the The Panigale V2 lies just in the middle, motorcycle with 955 cc and 155 hp as a than this one, which is now considered reality here, as, although it is true that mm longer, the front wheel trail is slightly Panigale V2 is able to successfully com- basically carving out a market segment middleweight, but this could be consid- an entry-level bike, so the whole thing the Panigale V2 is more accessible than shorter and the weight distribution is bine the best of both worlds: On the of its own; it draws from both worlds, ered as a sign of the times in the super- clearly shows a mutated perspective of the unruly V4, it remains by all means a even sportier with a 1% increase in load one side the superbikes, characterized packing in quite an appealing mix to its bikes’ evolution: The motorbikes used by our sensitivity when approaching this premium product. on the front chassis. Ducati has then by increasingly powerful and extreme potential buyers. to win his earliest Superbike segment. To justify its price tag, the bike comes worked to improve the riding comfort engines, but often hard to drive for the It is certainly a bit weird to label a titles were just slightly more powerful However, we must come to grips with with an electronic package unrivalled by

8 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 9 10 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 11 Instrumentation on the Panigale V2 features a 4.3" TFT display. Graphics and interface make menu browsing and adjustments easy while allowing more immediate identification of the selected Riding Mode. The Riding Mode interface clearly and immediately shows any changes being made to the settings. This is done thanks to the explanatory graphics of the system being adjusted and a graduated scale indicating whether the modification is better suited to performance or safety/stability.

The rear suspension features a fully adjustable, Sachs monoshock, which reacts to the motion imparted by the die-cast single-sided aluminium swin- garm via progressive-rate linkage. The shock absorber is side mounted to make the unit fully accessible for rebound and compression damping and spring pre-load adjustments.

The front headlight assembly is extremely compact thanks to the adoption of The Panigale V2 front brakes use twin M4.32 Brembo monobloc callipers two small LED low beam / high beam modules. The Daytime Running Light actuated by master cylinders. The front calipers grip 320 mm discs, while a and the upper rim of the dual headlight assembly create a 'browed' look, single 245 mm disc at the rear is gripped by a single Brembo calliper. the modern hallmark of Ducati sports bikes. At the rear, instead, the full-LED tail light features a two-part design as per Ducati sports tradition. The dual red arch of the side light makes the Panigale V2 both unique and assertive. Front and rear LED indicators complete the lighting system.

any other mid-range on the these controls are associated by default needs of all riders, on road or racetrack, market. The Panigale V2 features modern with the three Riding Modes (Race, even under critical low-grip conditions. electronics based on a 6-axis inertial Sport, Street). Riders can personalise In light of such premises, you can easily thanks to their amazing performance, ent take on sport riding: It is not a “I it along the curbing of the technical Cir- platform which instantly detects the parameters to suit their riding style or imagine how seconds after you get off and every time you open the throttle, wish I could” [afford a different model], cuito de Jerez in Spain, where you can bike's roll, yaw and pitch angles. restore the Ducati default settings. the bike with a smile stamped on your they deliver an adrenaline rush to the because we are not talking peanuts here, appreciate its smoothness when bend- On the Panigale V2, the electronics The ABS system on the Panigale V2 face, you are already looking forward to spine that is nothing short of phenom- but it should be regarded as a different ing down, steadfast stability under hard package consists of: ABS Cornering EVO, features the cornering function (which your next ride. enal. philosophical proposition. braking and the feeling of being able to Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, keeps the ABS working even with the This is because the Panigale V2 is never However, they are not everybody’s cup If driven by an expert pilot, it is an tap it for all it is really worth. Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, bike leaned over) and has the same inter- physically exhausting on you, but it makes of tea, as to extract the best out of them extremely fast and performing bike, In a few words, when riding the Panigale Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS) EVO vention logic and control as on the Pani- you want to ride it over and over. requires technical and physical skills as though demanding just half the level V2 you do not feel dominated, there is 2, Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO gale V4. ABS Cornering EVO can be set It is quite clear indeed: Today’s super- well as a speed-trained mindset. of commitment required by her elder no need to struggle, because you are Operational parameters for each of at three different levels to fully satisfy the bikes make you feel like a superhero, The Panigale V2 offers quite a differ- sibling, the V4: So, it is a real fun to take simply going to enjoy it.

12 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 13 The new Panigale V2 Is a beefy yet compact bike of essential design with clear-cut lines that convey power without compromising classic Ducati superbike flair. Unlike 959 Panigale the Panigale V2 features the single-sided aluminium swingarm, the hallmark of every high-end sports Ducati. Gently moulded around the refined monocoque frame, the extensive Design fairing highlights the more compact twin-cylinder Superquadro engine (smaller in comparison to the Desmosedici Stradale), creating a bike that is visibly leaner and less intimidating than the Panigale V4. Dominating the front end are the two large air intakes, the upper parts of which incorporate the full-LED headlight. The new intakes merge with the existing air feed layout via newly designed ducts that, delivery rates remaining equal, lose less pressure than the previous ones, thus boosting intake efficiency. The headlight has been compacted with the express intent of giving the intakes themselves - especially with the bike at standstill - a more menacing air. Two specially shaped rims on the under-

WATCH THE VIDEO

sides of the air intakes speed up air inflow. The full-LED headlight consists of a Daytime Running Light (which creates a dual 'eyebrow' effect, highlighting the upper rim of the air intake) and two compact dipped beam / high beam LED modules. The fairing has a 'dual layer' configuration: a main layer that extends upwards and merges into the tank via two sturdy struts, and a secondary layer that also acts as an air vent. This 'dual layer' solu- tion revives the clean lines typical of Ducati sports bikes, famed for their full-fairing look. The fairing The Panigale V2 thanks to chassis modifications combined with the new Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II tires is more intuitive, agile and fun to ride, moreover a fine-tuning of the suspension hydraulic setting improve comfort in road use. This bike has a totally new design, underside merges visually with the under-engine silencer, which terminates in an extremely compact it features sophisticated electronics based on a 6-axis inertial platform and, thanks to a more comfortable rider seat and the suspension right-side-only end pipe. The tail is built on a steel Trellis subframe lined with plastic covers that runs set-up, offers better yet safer sports performance while making road riding more enjoyable and user-friendly than ever. from the vertical cylinder to the tailpiece, of winged, spoiler-like design. The tailpiece incorporates the full-LED tail light, also wing-shaped: while a one-piece assembly, the light has two distinct parts as per Ducati sports bike tradition. The Panigale V2 combines a traditional Ducati Red livery with black 5-spoke wheels of a Panigale V4-inspired design.

dumbfound you: When you ride and push and do so constantly turn after turn. And fers load extremely smoothly, although it to the limit, it always feels like you are this is a job that the Panigale V2 performs in some situations, like when backing off The engine confirms that compliance with the new Euro 5 proving an absolutely effective ride thanks to the fantastic feeling not going fast enough: “Come on baby, ride superbly well, because, for, as it often the throttle hard, it works very close to standards did not necessarily result into any down-step: On of stability it conveys, and when you are on the ropes you do on and forget about the tachometer”. happens with this kind of motorcycles, the limit, as well as a superb, perfectly- the opposite, the bike delivers absolutely linear distribution, the not think twice about opening the throttle, getting a constant Then, when you take a look at the no technical element prevails on the oth- calibrated single mono-shock. torque is always there, and you can really start enjoying it on the and smooth push, which does not baffle the chassis and the ECU instrument, you realize how fast you ers here: Engine, chassis, power, agility. Compared to the suspension system track a whiff above 7000 revs. at all, as they are both designed to handle considerably higher were, because it is true that you can All the ingredients are perfectly bal- of the 959 Panigale, the Panigale V2 From then onwards you have a helluva good 4000 rpm up to outputs. always use some power, but what you anced like on a dish assembled by a is equipped with 2 mm longer shock the (electronically-set) limit of 11.000 rpm, a range offering a So, the risk here is to actually open the throttle too fast, with- really need is to anchor all that horse- starred chef, where suspensions do their absorbers and the Showa BPF has been linear push with precise and steadfast gas response. out giving it too much thought, although the bike never rears up, power to the ground, optimizing control- fine job too thanks to an extremely equally pulled up 2 mm, a set-up that, When entering corners, it does so swiftly and homogeneously, but keeps going and moving forward. The Panigale V2 can easily led braking and acceleration and riding tuned-in fork (Showa BPF), which trans- combined with the new Pirelli Dia-

14 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 15 16 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 17 ENGINE Superquadro 90° V2, 4 valve per cylinder, Desmodromic, liquid cooled DISPLACEMENT 955 cc The 955 cm³ twin cylinder Superquadro engine complies with Euro X 100 x 60,8 mm 5 standards. Compared to the engine on the 959 Panigale it delivers 12.5:1 an additional 5 hp and 2 Nm more of torque. Tech Spec POWER 114 kW (155 hp) @ 10.750 rpm It also features a new compact exhaust silencer, routed entirely TORQUE 104 Nm (76,7 lb-ft) @ 9.000 rpm underneath the engine. With a maximum power of 155 hp at 10,750 Engine FUEL INJECTION Electronic fuel injection system. Twin injectors per cylinder. rpm and a torque of 104 Nm at 9,000 rpm, this twin cylinder engine Full ride-by-wire elliptical throttle bodies delivers power smoothly and enjoyably on the road while remaining EXHAUST 2-1-2-1 system, with 2 catalytic converters and 2 lambda probes forceful - yet always under control - on the track. GEARBOX 6 speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2 Performance enhancement largely stems from the new injectors PRIMARY DRIVE Straight cut gears; Ratio 1.77:1 (two per cylinder, one above and one below the butterfly, larger, and FINAL DRIVE Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 43 re-angled) and the new inlet ducts which, delivery rates remaining CLUTCH Hydraulically controlled slipper and self-servo wet multiplate clutch equal, lose less pressure than their predecessors, thus boosting intake FRAME Monocoque Aluminium efficiency. Oval throttle body dimensions remain unchanged with an FRONT SUSPENSION Fully adjustable Showa BPF fork. 43 mm chromed inner tubes equivalent diameter of 62 mm. Throttle bodies are controlled inde- FRONT WHEEL 5-spokes light alloy 3.50" x 17" pendently of each other via a full Ride by Wire system. FRONT TYRE Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II 120/70 ZR17 The new silencer has a new internal layout and, back pressure REAR SUSPENSION Fully adjustable Sachs unit. Aluminum single-sided swingarm remaining equal, abates noise spikes more easily. This has led to REAR WHEEL 5-spokes light alloy 5,50” x 17” a considerable reduction in silencer bulk compared to its Euro 4 REAR TYRE Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II 180/60 ZR17 959 Panigale counterpart. The new silencer also houses two larger. WHEEL TRAVEL (FRONT/REAR) 120 mm (4.72 in) - 130 mm (5.12 in) enhanced-impregnation catalytic converters that allow compliance FRONT BRAKE 2 x 320 mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc with Euro 5 emissions standards. M4.32 4-piston callipers with Cornering ABS EVO On the Panigale V2 the engine acts as a stressed member of the REAR BRAKE 245 mm disc, 2-piston calliper with Cornering ABS EVO frame. Set 90° apart, the cylinders are banked rearwards around the INSTRUMENTATION Digital unit with 4,3" TFT colour display crankshaft axis, resulting in a 21° angle between front cylinder and DRY WEIGHT 176 kg (388 lb) horizontal plane. The two cylinder heads and aluminium top covers KERB WEIGHT 200 kg (441 lb) feature a ribbed design to reduce mechanical noise. The crankcases SEAT HEIGHT 840 mm (33,1 in) are vacuum die-cast using Vacural® technology to optimise weight WHEELBASE 1.436 mm (56,5 in) saving and ensure consistent wall thickness and increased strength. RAKE 24° Crankcase cover, clutch cover and sump are all made of die-cast FRONT WHEEL TRAIL 94 mm (3.70 in) aluminium. FUEL TANK CAPACITY 17 l - 4.5 gallon (US) The Superquadro engine uses brass bushings for the crankshaft, SAFETY EQUIPMENT Riding Modes, Power Modes, Cornering ABS EVO, Ducati Traction Control EVO 2, lubricated with pressurised oil via ducting inside the crankcase. This Ducati Wheelie Control EVO, Engine Brake Control EVO, Auto tyre calibration ensures efficient lubrication of the crankshaft and rapid oil recovery STANDARD EQUIPMENT Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down EVO 2, Full LED lighting with Daytime Running Light thanks to a lobe pump that - as on MotoGP racing engines - lowers (DRL), Sachs steering damper, Auto-off indicators the pressure in the connecting rod casing. Operated by a shaft, in turn MAINTENANCE (KM/MONTHS) 12,000 km (7,500 m)/12 months driven by a gear train, the pump keeps the casing zone underneath STANDARD Euro 5 the pistons in a controlled, constant low pressure state, thus reducing CONSUMPTION 6,0 l/100km the resistance encountered by connecting rod rotation at high engine speeds and ensuring efficient oil recovery at all engine speeds. The compression ratio is 12.5:1. The 955 cm³ displacement is obtained with a 60.8 mm stroke and 100 mm bore, measurements that flawlessly combine good handling and fluid power delivery. A 100 mm bore allows for large valve diameters: 41.8 mm for the intake and 34 mm for the exhaust. The valves are controlled by a Desmodromic system with racing-derived rocker arms, 'super-finished' and with a blo Rosso Corsa II tires, makes this In the end, the V2 is a powerful machine to adjust back to a more “human” range. special DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) facing for reduced friction and machine more intuitive, fun and enter- that never wears you down, steering is Are you looking for sheer violence and increased fatigue strength. taining. Braking is never a problem, the agile and smooth, braking is never an adrenaline? Then go for the V4, which Transmission features a six-speed gearbox with the Ducati Quick front braking system featuring a pair of issue (hats off to the ABS Cornering will quench your thirst galore. But if you Shift up/down EVO 2 system and an oil bathed clutch. The latter has radially mounted M4.32 Brembo mono- system); it proves stable and powering are seeking a bike offering a smooth ride, an anti-patter and progressive self-servo mechanism that compresses block calibers, with twin 320 mm discs, at the same time, even when you try to even on the verge of refinement, then do the friction plates when under drive from the engine without any while the rear wheel comes with a single mess it up with hard braking, asking for not underestimate the Panigale V2, as it extra effort required from the rider to release the clutch. 245 mm disc coupled with a two-piston just a few extra instants when downshift- will provide you with more than just a Brembo caliper. ing suddenly in order to allow the engine few hair-raising moments.

18 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 19 DIABLO SUPERCORSA SP

he new Pirelli Diablo vative 200/60 ZR17 on the rear. Supercorsa SP is the ulti- Also for 2020 Supercorsa SP is chosen mate expression of Pirel- by Ducati and other motorcycle manu- li technology, its racing facturers as original equipment for their soul approved for road flagship models in the supersports and Tuse. In fact, this tyre is the third genera- naked segments. tion of Pirelli's highly popular race replica The innovative profile of the new rear tyre featuring profile and structure that tyre maximizes contact at peak leaning are nearly identical to those of the slick angles and reaps utmost benefit from the racing tyres that are used in national and bicompound technology used, adopting international competitions such as the the same SC2 compound used for slick FIM World Superbike Championship. racing tyres to offer the grip typical of The Diablo establishes a benchmark for competition-grade products while guar- the race replica segment and thanks to its anteeing the robustness and versatility innovative features it has been chosen by needed on the road. Ducati as original equipment of its new The front tyre has also benefited from Panigale V4 model year 2020, in action at a new important development to ensure the Bahrain International Circuit, where complete harmony with the rear tyre. the official press launch of the new Italian All driving features related to handling supersports machine take place. – from feedback provided to the rider, As a technical partner, Pirelli worked to firmness of the support, all the way closely with Ducati in the development to the safety feeling and ability to predict of the new Panigale V4, in 2018 the very the limit grip – have been optimised in first motorcycle to use the new Diablo a new front tyre profile that offers a Supercorsa SP as original equipment with slightly higher maximum cord than the the front size 120/70 ZR17 and the inno- previous version.

Pirelli with Ducati at the international launch of the new Panigale V4 2020

20 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 21 Claudio Domenicali, Ducati Motor Holding CEO, and Stuart Higgs, Bennetts British Superbike Championship Series Director. DUCATI WINS IN BSB

ucati were presented wins, 17 second places and 17 third with the 2019 Bennet- places across the season. ts British Superbike In recognition of the accomplishment, Championship Winning the trophy was presented by Series Manufacturer trophy Director Stuart Higgs to the team Dat their factory in Bologna, the home of behind the design and development of where the Ducati V4 was developed by the machine including Ducati CEO Clau- the Italian manufacturer, marking a tenth dio Domenicali, General British title win in the series delivered by Manager Gigi Dall'Igna and Ducati Corse the PBM team this season. Sporting Director Paolo Ciabatti. In its first campaign in the Champion- The 2019 title-winning success for ship, Ducati’s newest Superbike celebrat- Ducati is the tenth victory for the Italian ed an impressive debut, claiming the top manufacturer since the British Cham- three positions in the overall champion- pionship began in its current guise in ship standings as sealed a 1996. debut British title ahead of Josh Brookes The first came for the popular Ducati and Tommy Bridewell. 996 in the hands of Troy Bayliss, the The consistent performances from both Australian making his mark in the British the championship-winning Be Wiser PBM Championship before progressing to the Ducati and Oxford Racing Ducati teams world stage with Ducati before claiming saw the new V4 achieve a total of 22 World Championship success.

22 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 23 Ducati then maintained their position at the delivering one of their strongest perform- top of the British Championship for a further ances in the history of the series and the trophy four seasons with in 2000, who arrived in Italy to mark the celebration, which also moved to represent Ducati in World further confirmed PBM’s position as the most Championship action and became a title-winner successful team in the Championship. in WSBK. Bennetts British Superbike Championship John Reynolds maintained the Ducati momen- Series Director Stuart Higgs commented: “The tum in Britain during the 2001 campaign, claim- Ducati story in BSB is unsurpassed with success ing the title before Steve Hislop added to his spanning over twenty years, with some of the British title success in 2002 onboard the 998 best riders to ever grace the championship. It was model, with Shane 'Shakey' Byrne sealing his very rewarding to hear first-hand from the Ducati first title in 2003. Executive group the high regard that BSB is held The was then the latest evolution by them”. of the Ducati Superbike, and in the hands of Claudio Domenicali, Ducati Motor Holding Gregorio Lavilla, lifted the 2005 British crown. CEO, commented: “We are extremely pleased to Ducati and Byrne were victorious again in 2008 receive this trophy to celebrate a fantastic debut and then together claimed incredible consecu- season for the new Panigale V4 in such a com- tive title wins for the Panigale R in 2016 and petitive championship as BSB, and want to take this 2017 with PBM, before injury ended his 2018 opportunity also to thank Paul Bird of the Be Wiser fight for the hat trick of championship wins PBM Ducati Team and Steve Moore of Oxford Rac- prematurely. ing Ducati for their efforts and great support, that This season the all-new Panigale V4 R proved allowed Ducati to achieve the top three position in to be another weapon on track for Ducati, the final standings of the series”.

24 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 25 PANIGALE IS THE WORLD'S BEST-SELLING SUPERBIKE

ucati Motor Holding best sales performance since the Bolo- closes 2019 with gna-built multibike made its debut six- 53,183 bikes delivered teen years ago. to customers wor- Sales figures for 2019 have reinforced ldwide, nudging last Ducati's position at the premium end of Dyear's figure of 53,004 bikes even higher. the motorcycle market. A major contribution to this result “2019 was a tough but also rewarding came from the Panigale: with sales total- year. We're working to make Ducati the ling 8,304, it retains the market leader- world's most desirable motorcycle brand ship established in 2018 and confirms its - stated Claudio Domenicali, CEO of status as the world's best-selling super- Ducati Motor Holding - and the results bike with a market share of 25%. we're achieving, the development of the Two new bikes introduced in 2019 - range and the market response all confirm the Hypermotard 950 and Diavel 1260 we're on the right track. On today's global - racked up sales of 4,472 and 3,129 market, one in every four superbikes is now respectively, doubling the overall volumes a Panigale. The technical content we've achieved in 2018 by previous versions. transferred from the R version and our The Multistrada family performed extensive racing experience to the V4 2020 equally well, scoring a 3% increase com- range ensure this bike remains the category pared to 2018 (thanks also to the addi- benchmark. What's more, order books for tion of the 950 S and a revamped 1260 the new Streetfighter V4 are bulging, more Enduro); deliveries totalled 12,160, the than 1,700 are already on order, and deliv-

26 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 27 Francesco Milicia, Global Sales VP.

eries will begin in March 2020". continued the upward trend of recent “We're satisfied with the results years and is, with 3,200 motorcycles achieved in 2019 - adds Francesco sold (+12%), now the Bologna-based Milicia, Global Sales VP. - Over the last bike manufacturer's fifth most impor- twelve months a major network develop- tant market. ment plan has been implemented, with This positive end to 2019 allows 54 new dealerships in 20 countries. This Ducati to look into the future with expansion plan will continue this year in confidence. For 2020, the product order to further improve the world-wide range is now even more complete and network coverage and offer our fans a dealerships will soon be taking deliv- growing premium experience”. ery of the long-awaited Streetfighter Sales in Italy continue to grow, con- V4. The Panigale can - in addition to firming the country as Ducati’s number the introduction of the new V2 - also one market. Bike sales totalled 9,474, a count on a major upgrade to the 3% improvement on 2018 and a 20% V4 that will boost performance and increase over the last three years. enhance rideability. In the United States, Ducati deliver- For globetrotters and those who ies totalled 7,682 motorcycles, down want to enjoy long-distance adven- by just 2% despite the continuing tures in outstanding comfort, the Mul- negative trend which saw the market tistrada family sees the arrival of the shrink by 7% compared to 2018. new Grand Tour. Brazil (+20%), Spain (+10%) and Last but not least, the Ducati Scram- France (+8%), however, performed bler range - which saw the new 800 exceedingly well. Dark presented at EICMA - will see China, a country where the Ital- the introduction of a new model in ian brand is particularly appreciated, the coming months.

28 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 29 ollecting original parts Dall’Igna. To enhance their uniqueness from the bikes that com- and originality further, all parts come pete in the MotoGP and complete with a technical description SBK championships has and info on the relative rider and world been many Ducatista's championship season. Cdream... one that has now come true. Memorabilia items can be purchased As of December 2019, the Ducati Mem- at the Ducati Store in Borgo Panigale, at orabilia project will be giving fans of Ducati dealerships and, from 2020, also the Bologna-based bike manufacturer the online at www.ducati.com. chance to purchase certified parts from Each piece is protected in a plexiglass bikes used in recent years by MotoGP display case and comes with a certificate and SBK team riders. of authenticity. Availability is limited, mak- The first batch of official Ducati com- ing this a not-to-be-missed opportunity ponents consists of con-rods, crankshafts, for Ducatisti and other bike enthusiasts camshafts and pistons, all personally cer- to become proud desmodromic Memo- tified by Claudio Domenicali and Gigi rabilia owners.

DUCATI MEMORABILIA

30 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 31 Ducati R&D Department is now headed by Vincenzo De Silvio. BOARD OF MANAGEMENT

ucati Motor Holding brings to this new role a wealth of expe- announces the fol- rience gained in vehicle experimentation/ lowing changes within design and Quality Management, where the company's Board he was Director for the last 8 years. of Management. In accordance with his new position, DR&D Department will now be headed Andrea Gesi joins Ducati Motor Holding by Vincenzo De Silvio. He takes over Board of Management and Ducati Motor from Andrea Forni with the goal of Thailand's board of directors. enhancing and expanding technical skills Silvano Fini, with Ducati for 27 years, within what is a strategic area for Ducati. leaves his post as Production Director to Vincenzo De Silvio has been with the join Supply Chain Management. Working company for 18 years. He started out in alongside Federico Sabbioni, he shall be Ducati Corse before moving to Research organising and offering Ducati Suppliers a & Development where he was Engine specialized consultancy service designed Design Manager. to optimise processes, improve quality Andrea Forni has been assigned the and enhance efficiency along the entire role of Quality Director. With Ducati for supply chain. 31 years, he has always covered technical Following these changes, the Ducati roles. Now, he shall put his experience Motor Holding Board of Management and expertise at the company's serv- is now as follows: Claudio Domenicali ice to continue the improvement work (President), Oliver Stein (Finance, Con- begun by Andrea Gesi and his team. trolling and IT), Sebastian Patta (Human The role of Production Director goes Resources & Corporate Social Respon- to Andrea Gesi, whose task will be to sibility), Francesco Milicia (Global Sales guide the digitalisation of production and After Sales), Andrea Gesi (Produc- operations and modernise processes. Mr. tion), Vincenzo De Silvio (R&D) and Gesi, who joined Ducati 21 years ago, Federico Sabbioni (Supply Chain).

32 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 33 The President of MUNER, Andrea Pontremoli, and The President of the Region of Emilia-Romagna, Stefano Bonaccini, with Claudio Domenicali.

press conference has “Motor Valley brings together a series been held at the Ducati of brands that are unique, renowned and Auditorium in Borgo appreciated around the world for their Panigale to officially design, technology and performance, all of announce Ducati CEO them located within a radius of just 150 km. AClaudio Domenicali's new role as Presi- As Ducati, we take pride in being part of this dent of the Motor Valley Association. association, just as I am personally proud The event was attended by delegates to take on the Presidency. For me, accept- from the district's companies and inter- ing this role is an act of responsibility and national race circuits, Regional Institutes recognition towards an extraordinary part and the media. of Italy that has given me so much - stated The Association unites all the car and Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati and motorcycle brands from Italy's “Motor President of Motor Valley - This Region Valley”, in Emilia-Romagna. enjoys an unparalleled academic culture and Motor Valley - a concentration of brands, unmatched motoring and technological skills. private collections, international race cir- It's also a magnet for enthusiasts, new talent cuits and specialised training centres like and businesses and as such deserves our no other on the planet - works alongside wholehearted support”. the Region to make the very best of this Motor Valley encapsulates Made-in-Italy heritage in terms of tourism. automotive and industrial excellence: it's

PRESIDENT OF MOTOR VALLEY

34 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 35 VIEW MORE PHOTOS

a project that highlights the area's capacity to flag internationally, attracting visitors from all network and make the most of internation- over the globe. It does so thanks to the effective ally unique qualities. It centres on the car and teamwork between local institutions and private motorcycle industry, the beating heart of the companies that has allowed us to build a fasci- Region's economy, on its excellent universi- nating association of 4 international racetracks, ties and its truly global appeal. 6 specialised training centres, 6 world-leading car Dallara, Ducati, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maser- and motorcycle makers, 11 museums, 16 col- ati and Pagani are just a few of these Motor lections, 7 key industry players and 188 sports Valley brands, loved by fans all over the world. teams that combines culture, entrepreneurship Motor Valley also includes 15 specialised and speed. It's a district that, together with Food museums (such as the Enzo Ferrari Museum Valley, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the in Modena, the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, beauty of the Apennine Mountains and the Po the Automobili Lamborghini Museum, the Delta, is a global magnet for tourists. It's also Ferruccio Lamborghini Museum, the Ducati a district that provides work for thousands. It's Museum in Borgo Panigale and the Horacio intertwined with the Region's higher education Pagani Museum in Modena), 16 private collec- and university network, as highlighted by MUNER tions and 4 racetracks (the "Riccardo Paletti" - the Motorvehicle University of Emilia-Romagna circuit in Varano de’ Melegari, the Modena that offers international automotive-dedicated racetrack in Marzaglia, the "Enzo e Dino Fer- degree courses, co-organised by the four universi- rari" circuit in Imola and the Marco Simoncelli ties of Emilia-Romagna and its deep-rooted car Misano World Circuit at Misano Adriatico). and motorcycle manufacturers, which is attract- “Emilia-Romagna's Motor Valley is a concen- ing many motivated, exceptional young people trate of talent, know-how, flair, design, industrial to our region from all over Europe and, indeed, prowess, craftsmanship, innovation and research, the world. Today we welcome an enlightened, making it unlike anywhere else in the world”, forward-thinking entrepreneur to the Presidency, points out the Region's President, Stefano a man whose experience and vision will do much Bonaccini. “Its dream brands fly our Region's to enhance this unique concentration of passion

36 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 37 and expertise even further”. that focuses on technological innovation, spe- The Osservatorio Turistico of Motor Valley - cialisation, research and development, with a study run by Unioncamere Emilia Romagna, project members working closely alongside Trademark Italia and Mailander - shows how each other. Motor Valley attracted, in 2018 alone, 1.2 mil- A tangible example is the MUNER (Motor- lion overnight visitors, injecting over 300 mil- vehicle University of Emilia-Romagna No lion euros into the local economy (through Profit per Education) project. revenues generated by events at the Imola In 2017, the four regional universities (Bolo- and Misano race circuits and visits to com- gna, Parma, Ferrara and Modena-Reggio Emil- pany museums). ia) and the industry's eight top companies, Total visitor numbers to the district were including Ducati, Ferrari and Lamborghini, about 1.8 million, of whom 44% were Italian created the Università dell'Automotive. It and 56% foreign, with 1,190,000 overnight holds two courses that aim to train the auto- stays by visitors to museums and collections motive engineers of the future. and spectators at racetrack events. “Global competition is no longer between indi- In Emilia-Romagna - Italy's third most impor- vidual businesses but regional systems - under- tant region in the national car and motorcycle lined Andrea Pontremoli, CEO of Dallara and industry, preceded only by Lombardy and President of MUNER - and regional systems Piedmont - the automotive supply chain consist of businesses, training facilities and insti- involves 16,500 businesses and over 66,000 tutions". employees, or 10% of the entire national sup- Motor valley simply has to be experienced. ply chain. And this year will offer a golden opportunity Yet Motor Valley also - and above all - plays a to do so in the form of the second Motor strategic role. A role that sees companies and Valley Fest, to be held from 14 to 17 May in universities committed at every level. A role the heart of Modena.

38 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 39 THE 848 EVOLVES

photos courtesy Ducati and Mondo Ducati

40 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 41 The 848 Evo was introduced on the market as the ideal solution to access the world of Ducati Superbikes

he 848 was unveiled at Ducati catalog of that time, available in the Imola racetrack in two versions, standard and SP. October 2010, where Ducati introduced important changes Carlos Checa had sea- for the Evo, especially involving its V-twin led a fantastic double in engine, which in this specific configura- Tthe Superbike Championship just a few tion reached 140hp, with a significant weeks earlier. A sort of auspicious debut, 6hp increase compared to the previous therefore, for a motorbike that, as per version, and equally important was the In the previous page, our tester in "competition" with Carlos Checa, its name tag, was supposed to represent evolution of its torque, which reached present at the 848 Evo press launch. the evolution of the 848 project, which 10kgm at 9750 rpm. had been present in the Ducati catalog since 2008. To withstand the increased perform- This is a demonstration of the impor- ance, the 848 Evo was equipped with belt tance attributed by Ducati to the market guards provided with dedicated air vents, segment of the so-called middle-weight so as to facilitate their cooling. Superbikes, as testified by its footmark Another important modification was in this segment since 1994 with the 748 the adoption of Mono-block Brembo model, then the 749 in 2003, up to the brake calipers, which, combined with 848 in 2008 indeed. the bike’s reduced weight (168 Kg), However, to take on the competition allowed obtaining braking performance they needed something more than the that would soon become a reference 848, hence the need to kick-off the Evo point in this segment (applying the same project, which as a matter of fact saw force to the brake lever, it produced 20% several upgrades over time and thus greater deceleration if compared to the found a place alongside the 1198 in the standard 848 braking system).

42 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 43 VIEW MORE PHOTOS

A brand new piston crown and combustion chamber shape improve burn efficiency and increase the compression ratio from 12:1 to a power-enhancing 13.2:1 while new performance-driven camshafts pro- vide 13 mm of valve-lift compared with 11.5 mm 848 version. The “EVO” treatment applied to the 848 intro- duces a 6 hp power boost to 140 hp and a torque increase to 98 Nm.

The 848 Evo has Brembo Monobloc callipers and steering damper. The bike maintains the traditional colour of Ducati red with red frame and black wheels and introduces the new schemes of arctic white silk with red frame and red wheels and “dark stealth” with racing black frame and black wheels.

appreciated its optimal balance between tions underwent by the unit especially on the whole 4936 meters of the Enzo performance and riding characteristics. on the racetrack, where obviously riders and Dino Ferrari circuit with absolute As a matter of fact, its strong points would exploit all gears up to the very last confidence, after just a few laps. This feel- The 848 evolution was completed by light alloy 3.50" and 5.50" wheels. Euros for the red or white paintwork. lay in its light weight and dynamic bal- available rev, while such difference was ing was enhanced and facilitated by the the adoption of the Pirelli Diablo Super- Besides the traditional red paintwork, ance, a direct heritage from a set-up and much less evident on road use. adoption of great quality tires such as corsa SP tires, with a 120/70-17" front the 848 Evo was offered also in two TEST RIDE technology drawn from the race world, The potential of the 848 Evo was the Pirelli originally mounted on the bike tire and a 180/55-17" rear tire (the same other color schemes never seen before: The Evo represented a great option following Ducati’s best traditions. unleashed at its best on the Imola race- (on this occasion further enhanced by mounted on the 1198, with the differ- “white artic”, with red body frame and for those sport motorbike fans who Obviously, in light of the 6hp increase, track, a very fast and technical circuit, the special dual blend SC2 for the front ence that the latter came with a 190/55- wheels, and “dark stealth”, featuring rac- did not disdain racetrack use but at the the Evo outperformed its predecessor, where the bike was introduced to the and SC1 for the rear tire), which allowed 17" rear tire), and its chassis saw the ing black frame and black wheels. same time did not feel confident enough although we must point out that such press and proved to be quite powerful, focusing immediately on the qualities of addition of a steering damper. As a two-seater, in 2011 the motorbike to approach the extreme power of the power was mostly concentrated in the though less demanding than the 1198. the chassis and the engine delivery. The motorbike was fitted with adjust- commanded a price of 13.500 Euros for 1198, and likewise it was a valid alterna- higher end of the engine’s delivery, a fact The 849.4 cc engine combined with a Actually, the 848 Evo was great in that it able Showa suspensions and 5-spoke the Dark Stealth version and 14.250 tive also for those motorcyclists who that allowed appreciating the modifica- wet clutch allowed our tester to take was not an intimidating machine, despite

44 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 45 Iconic features from the World Championship-winning machines, such as the twin under-seat silencers, single-sided swingarm, Trellis frame, beautiful race bodywork and steering damper, are all part of the 848 Evo's DNA. As all the other Ducati Superbikes is a race bikes, pure and simple, its striking aerodynamic shapes create a natural riding position, optimum for speed and agility.

some rear ups that could have been In this way, in fact, the acceleration was Anyway, it is a fact that entering cor- avoided due to the exuberance of the kept optimal, allowing the Evo to reach ners was not exactly a piece of cake with engine at high revs; on the opposite, the considerable speed in between turns. the Evo, as it required some effort, which To say it all, the Evo had a preference for sharp riding style, in This version of the 848, therefore, maintained all the typical engine was not quite as powerful at low Speaking of corners, one of the Evo’s was certainly worth at high speed: The order to exploit the characteristics of the chassis, in this version characteristics of Ducati’s middle-weight sport bikes, at the revs, as it started to pick up and become main upgrades actually concerned its motorbike undoubtedly performed at its supported also by the presence of the steering damper (the same time improving their efficacy in terms of power output at intense and interesting only after 7000 braking system, much improved indeed, best when pushed hard rather than on standard 848 came without it). high revs, and especially in terms of braking capability. rpm, then constantly continuing up to without crossing into the extreme brak- easy riding, thus showing a personality The engine could be managed more easily, you could open 9000 rpm; from there on, it produced an ing of the 1198. much closer to the traditional Ducati the throttle without fear, despite the absence of the traction HISTORY emphatic hair-rising growth towards the As for the riding, the 848 Evo was Superbikes. This character was empha- control: obviously, given its characteristics, a bit subdue at low The 848 Evo had a truly short lifecycle. Already in the year very last end, when the electronic limiter characterized by a rigorous chassis, sized also by its front chassis, very stable, revs, entering corners in high gears was not recommended, as it following its release, 2012, the 848 Evo Corse Special Edition would kick in at 11.300 rpm (the previ- which sacrificed agility in favor of stabil- which required clear commands to draw would translate into a poor exit, but this is in terms of lap time, model was added to the pipeline, featuring as standard solutions ous 848 had the limiter set at 10.800 ity, although the different size of the rear trajectories that were then precisely without affecting its drive quality! the Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Quick Shift, Öhlins rear sus- rpm), though it was much better to shift tire made steering a bit less complicated executed and followed through by the It was therefore advisable to keep the engine always above pension and 330 mm brake discs, the whole thing embellished by gear around 10.500 rpm. if compared to her older sibling. bike. 7000 rpm, when riding it on the racetrack of course! a special paintwork featuring Ducati Corse official colors.

46 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 47 This is the 2012 Corse Special Edi- tion, equipped with full 8-level Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and the Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) system. This special bike combine the enhanced electronic package with the superior feel of fully adjustable Öhlins rear suspension and 330 mm front brake discs. Its livery has the "Ducati Corse" official color scheme. On the opposite page, the 2013 Corse Special Edition has a new lightweight aluminium fuel tank, and gets a new Ducati Corse Test Team livery of matte black and matte grey.

In 2013, the 848 Evo was solely avail- pletely different proposition, equipped Ducati’s most traditional solutions such able in the red color scheme, while the with the Superquadro engine, mono- as the trellis steel-tube chassis, the single Corse Special Edition mounted a new coque frame and a complete electronic swing-arm, the under-seat dual exhaust fuel tank in aluminum and came with the package, which included several riding system, as well as a certain roughness of Ducati Corse Test Team colors, revolv- modes and controls (DTC, DQS, ABS, the engine still not tamed by electronics. ing around the contrast between matte EBC and Ride-by-Wire) that would soon As a proof of the above, the Evo still black and matte gray. become familiar to all Ducati users. maintains an optimal pricing on the Finally, a few years after its debut, the The fact is that the 848 remained a second-hand market: a bike in good 848 Evo bowed out in 2014 and was reference motorbike for many a fan for conditions would demand no less than replaced by the 899 Panigale, a com- a long time, especially those favoring 6,500/7,000 Euros indeed.

48 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 49 READY FOR THE CHALLENGE

s usual, winter is the had with him. 2020 will be the second best time of the year season for the V4 R, so it is no longer a to report on the past rookie bike. racing season. But that's Where do we start from and did we not all: it's also the best improve our knowledge compared to Atime to talk about the future prospects last year? for this 2020 season, which will kick off "Certainly, compared to last year we start in a few months. with a lot of more knowledge, both in terms What could be better, by the way, than of how it works (responses and reliability of to talk about these topics with a charac- the bike) and its settings on various tracks. ter like Marco Zambenedetti, technical This is very important and maybe in the first coordinator of the Superbike project year it penalized us a little bit because we and, in general, of all the V4R projects, ran with a format that only saw two practice including endurance and national cham- sessions on Friday: it's a bit difficult to play pionships? with a bike you don't have any references Of course, we could not miss such an for. As for Davies, then, we start from the opportunity and bombarded Marco with base that we found in the second half of a thousand questions. the championship. Redding, on the other This is the account of the nice chat we hand, is continuing his apprenticeship with

Interview with Marco Zam be ne de tti by Matteo Gucci, photos courtesy Ducati Corse

50 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 51 Here is the whole 2019 Superbike team: from the left, Serafino Foti, Chaz Davies, Daniele Casolari, Stefano Cecconi, Marco Zambenedetti, Álvaro Bautista and Piero Guidi. The 2019 season was certainly one of the strangest in Ducati's long history in Superbike: after an undisputed domination in the first races there was a second part of the season that was absolutely disappointing. The only positive note, the constant growth of Chaz Davies. Scott Redding's first approach to the Aruba team's official V4 during testing at Jerez last November was positive. In addition to testing the new tyres brought by Pirelli, Scott improved his feeling with electronics, which is totally new to him in Superbike. "In general, I'm quite happy with the test - the British rider told the press - I've achieved a good feeling with the Panigale V4 R and we know which direction to work in next season".

Ducati Superbike electronics and Pirelli tires the bike, so we start with a certain handi- season, at the beginning he was in trou- to a greater extent; however, we are honestly cap as we have particularly heavy riders. ble, but then in the second half of the rider and Chaz did the same with his riding do quite quickly; this means he needs a corners and is less extreme than Chaz. In satisfied with his course". From another stance, though, this gives us season he improved his confidence with style. Surely we have taken a step forward quite stable bike rather than a particularly the BSB, he certainly had the opportunity Here we are: in fact, there’s been a a chance to have a more comparable set the bike. since Laguna, working on the rear of the agile one; on the other hand, Redding prefers to learn about the bike setting reactions, change with the pair of pilots, with up and data base. However, we noticed that How did this progress happen, where bike, though we are still not happy with the distance rather than bringing a lot of brake including in wet or difficult conditions. As Scott's arrival in place of Álvaro. Especial- the riding style is different between the two are we now and how do you think it result, so we are continuing to work at 360 into the corners". for the electronics, there are considerable ly compared to Bautista, neither of the pilots Anyway, clearly the handicap remains. will grow? degrees, especially on the side of the chassis, Speaking of Redding, how much did he differences, since in the BSB the electronic two current drivers is a featherweight. Fortunately, the power of the engine helps "There was no particular magic. There on what is the basic set up for the rider". make out of his British Superbike experi- controls are practically zero in terms of start, How does this affect development and us, but it is clear that I would have preferred was simply a constant refinement of what Can you describe his riding style? ence? As you mentioned before, it must engine brake management, rear wheel spin driving? to be more equal in comparison with oth- was the basic set up required by the rider, I "He prefers to brake hard and bring the be something related to the novelty of management and rear up management. It "The Superbike regulation doesn't provide ers". mean we started with a very wide window braking a lot into the corners, then he tries world championship electronics and the is precisely on this part that we are con- for a balance based on the rider's weight, Let's move on to the riding style of and gradually identified what were the cor- to make a pickup, which is the move to get rubber factor. centrating during the tests on track during but it simply refers to a minimum weight of the two pilots. Davies, we saw him last rect moves to make to adapt the bike to the the bike up fast enough, which some riders "Scott prefers to slide the bike around the winter session, in order to find the basic

52 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 53 Despite winning the British Superbike Championship last year, Redding will have to get used to the different characteristics of the official Ducati Corse bike. In fact, the BSB regulations require the use of the same control Here it is the 2019 V4 R. This season, the Borgo Panigale four-cylinder bike is bound to clarify once and for unit for everyone, which does not provide any traction control or anti-wheelie aid. From the first results obtained all what its potential is, given last season's two-sided performance. The presence of a brave and aggressive rider like Redding in the tests, however, it seems that Scott's apprenticeship may be particularly short. will certainly help to better define the objectives that can be achieved with this bike, while Davies will have to confirm his consistent progress achieved mainly in the last rounds of the 2019 season.

electronics set up that best suits his style or the way he likes to feel "I have to say that he is got the attitude of a true professional the reaction of the bike. However, we are also working on the pilot's pilot, in spite of all the social part where he is more effervescent! "Having more data certainly helps us to provide the satellite teams with a package in a bit about you. "I graduated in mechani- adaptation to the oversized tires, much different than in the BSB. By Once he puts on his suit he is very professional and focused, with a know more about the materials we are line with that of the official team as much as cal engineering, I started working at Aprilia the way, last year we moved to a type of tires that he had never used huge desire to ride, work and improve and, above all, despite some using. So it is an absolutely positive factor." possible, at least at the beginning; this allows Corse in 2002, working on 125 and 250 before, the Pirelli, which compared to the Michelin to which he was chronology that seemed slower, I must say that we focused more on What is the relationship between us to spread out the track tests to be carried chassis design, including production frames accustomed tend to have a much softer reaction, with wider move- the evaluation of components and settings, rather than looking for a Ducati and the various private teams out with several riders during those famous like the RSV 4 rather than off-road models, ments, although they have advantages in terms of stability of tem- particularly fast pace". when it comes to exchanging materials two practice sessions on Friday, and then then I moved to Ducati Corse in 2011 as a perature performance or on different types of tarmac that perhaps 2020 saw an increase in the number of V4 Rs on the track. and information? collect information and improve everyone's vehicle designer. I ran the first experiments other tires do not have". Does this translate into any advantages for the acquisition of "The strategy, which is a common approach performance for Saturday and Sunday". with the Ducati Corse aluminum frame from What was your impression of him in the first tests? data and experience? by Ducati in Moto GP as in Superbike, is to Now it is time to go personal, tell us 2012 onwards, I followed them throughout

54 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 55 Zambenedetti, in the middle, together with the other members of the team at the usual briefing with Chaz Davies, also during the end-of-year tests in Jerez. On the occasion, Chaz said: "It was a very intense test and all in all I am quite satisfied. We tested a lot of components and focused on perfecting our basic set-up. I think we have gathered useful information, working mainly on improving the weight transfer to the rear and testing new solutions".

the definition of the basic layout with the Ernesto moving on to another company (he using a frame structure, similar to the expe- coordination of the project for the GP15. passed to Termignoni), Dall'Igna assigned rience Ducati Corse has had in MotoGp. The After that, I became a full-time track engi- me this job". renowned front frame was the first step and neer with the Avintia team in Moto GP, and a So, you have experience in chassis is still preserved as a philosophical choice year later I switched to the Superbike cham- and cycling design. Can you explain the in MotoGp, I mean there is no front frame pionship with the official team, first working strengths and weaknesses of the V4 R there, though the front has a very similar as a support to Ernesto Marinelli, who was chassis on track? layout. The layout of the rear suspension in charge of the project. Then I provided "There was transition time at Ducati with comes from MotoGp, but without distorting technical support for data analysis and tech- the arrival of the 90-degree V-4 engine, so Ducati’s distinctive elements, such as the nical coordination of the project, until, with we went from an L-twin to a V-4 engine single-sided swingarm. Because Ducati’s aim

56 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 57 is to preserve its traditional distinctive ele- What do you expect from the 2020 like Honda, BMW, as well as the confir- ments, unlike Japanese bikes. I have to say season from a competitive point of view? mation of Ducati's investments (with the during the winter tests; however, the tests have everything they need to perform well, that seemed almost on the verge of dis- that these two aspects allowed us achieving What is the potential of the team, the consequent innovations in aerodynamics, are not done and we are not yet ready for so we will definitely have fun and work hard. appearing, but which instead proved to considerable improvement in terms of per- other Ducatis and the competition? vehicle and engine) make Superbike a very the first race, there is still a lot of work to do But we will be ready for that appointment". be very useful for manufacturers, includ- formance and on-track setting if compared The 2020 championship promises to attractive category. This gives me great and we would like to repeat a debut like last In short, we understand that the next ing for the promotion of their retail to the twin-cylinder, both in terms of stiffness be interesting, perhaps even more than pleasure. I expect to start with Chaz exactly year, although I think it will be difficult, very Superbike season will be very close, with products, and also in terms of image and and geometry of the bike. We therefore tried MotoGP. where we finished last season, possibly even difficult, to repeat it! Anyway, I expect it to be many title aspirants besides the usual audience, given the increasingly higher to make the most of Ducati Corse's experi- "I agree that the comeback of important better!, and with Scott I think we can take a very tight championship, because we know Rea. number of fans who follow it. ence within MotoGp". projects and budgets from manufacturers home some results, according to what I saw Honda will be very competitive as well: they It is a nice confirmation for a category Long live the superbike!

58 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 59 DOVIZIOSO’S SECRETS

etween 2016 and 2017 was the request, in 2016, to have Alberto Andrea Dovizioso's Giribuola, then 32-year-old, known as career changed pace: "Pigiamino" by everyone, as his chief tech- in fact, Dovi started to nician, because when he debuted with achieve excellent results, Ducati in 2008, at just 25, his young age Bsurprised the majority of the public and drew the affection of boxing veterans. gave a confirmation to those who knew "Pigia", as Dovi calls him, had already his potential, so much so that he com- carried out data analysis for him in 2013 peted for two titles and obtained three and 2014. consecutive second places in the World Now Giribuola is 36 and we had the Championship from 2017 to 2019. opportunity to interview and ask him A renewed self-confidence, a unique about these seasons, his and Dovizioso's feeling with the Desmosedici, an always race weekends, their relationship, how effective guide, a recognized record over they take on the tests, how they test ride his teammates Lorenzo and Petrucci. the Dovi, how they work together on the An unprecedented determination and Desmosedici. many duels won no less than against "Our relationship has grown over time Marc Marquez. When the switch goes since we met in 2013, as we have been from off to on, it is never accidental, together. At first he was a little suspicious, though we almost never know what trig- tight-lipped. It took time to build trust in me, gers it: usually, it is determination culti- which he showed when he asked Ducati to vated over the years combined with very let me be team leader. It was a challenge precise choices, which at a given moment for him, because it was my first experience harmonize with each other. as team leader in MotoGP, I had only done One of these choices for Dovizioso it in 2012, though in Superbike. Since I've

Interview with Albe rto Giribuola by Matteo Gucci, photos courtesy Ducati Corse

60 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 61 An image at the pit with Andrea Dovizioso and Alberto Giribuola: the two of them have now been a fixed pair for several years. After all, the relationship between a rider and his chief technician is very delicate, as it doesn't just depend on skill and professionalism as character and empathy factors also come into play. It is a relationship of trust, extremely delicate, a balance that is not always easy to create in such a competitive environment.

What are Dovi's strengths and what much, to make him understand that I was the very last corner and most of the time he might be a weakness? there for that sort of problems and that we won it, because he is sharp, he can predict been appointed chief technician, our relationship has been different, Then there are the tests. "During the tests the days are even "During these four years he has improved had a series of practice sessions to try to what will happen and acts accordingly. He I had to make difficult decisions to try to make him go faster, and longer, we ride for eight hours and need to organize ourselves; he is a a lot. Especially at the beginning of our rela- solve the problem. The calmer you are, the prepares everything meticulously and is if there is not complete confidence, it is difficult for that to happen. very schematic person, he likes to know perfectly what we are going tionship, we worked on what was one of the better the team responds, the quieter the always ready for any possibility. My job as Slowly, Andrea saw the work in the pit and my way of organizing to do. We organize the test practically the day before, then he refers most difficult points of his character: some- situation is and the better the team works. a chief technician is not easy as I need to things, while I got to know him better from an emotional point of view to me for the whole day; he wants to know what the feelings are, the times he lost his temper or did not believe We have improved this, he is done a lot interpret the rider's feelings, to translate his too; ours became more of a friendship than a working relationship. lap time, the tires to choose, the time it takes the guys to make the in himself, maybe he needed to perform in a on character level and he has made a big feeling with the bike into technical changes; This is important because there are difficult moments, you have to changes, and so on for eight hours. Sometimes, maybe he can ask certain way, but he approached it with stress change that has also led him to compete in I also needed time to understand and get share strong emotions, both positive and negative; friendship makes for a break to rest and then comes back later to hear the changes, and therefore failed it. In the first year, if we the championship. One positive side of him to know Andrea, growing up together helps you more open in saying what you think and what you feel, you I need to organize the work accordingly. You have to be very close to had some difficulties on Friday, he found it is that he is very rational and hardly gets a lot in this too. Now everything goes auto- understand each other better. At competitions we spend a lot of time this kind of work, it does not always happen in teams, we are lucky hard to believe that he would have a good overwhelmed by emotions; we saw this in the matically in the races and if something hap- together, more than with any other person on the team". because we have a good character". race on Sunday; it took a while, but not too races when he had to fight with Marc until pens, we both know what to do".

62 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 63 64 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 65 Dovizioso has his strong point in braking, which it manages with maximum efficiency. In the picture on the opposite page a picture of the celebrations at the arrival of a race. In fact, Dovizioso's 2019 season was not bad: 2 wins, 3 second places and 4 third places, which earned him second place in the standings behind Marquez.

Is he more of a white horse or black and quite easy overtaking compared to oth- the most, we have already achieved a lot of horse? On the helmet Dovi has drawn ers. Sometimes we concede a little bit on the things in the first tests we did and it seems both animals, symbols of rationality and distance. So, we must always try to exploit something is getting better. Then there is the in a different way. With Andrea we have been good since the begin- braking. We are always able to adapt to changes in regulations and emotion. a bike with braking stability, so that he can winter break with other tests in which we ning of the Michelin period to understand what the issues of these offset the problems that these changes impose on us. It is just that in "He tends to be a white horse by nature, do some brushing with the rear and a bit of should try other new things. We are certainly tires were and to try to make the most out of them. In any case, we 2019 the others worked hard and they may have come a bit closer, but when he sees that there is a possibility sliding when entering corners to keep the concentrating on this, also because we have are trying to improve the overall package, because the development but our electronics are always a reference point". of exploiting the black horse, he uses it". You front down; in those moments, when the bike to take into account the characteristics work concerns the bike as a whole, perhaps with a greater emphasis Going back to Dovi, can you tell us about his relationship with are the person who best knows his riding is a bit sideways, he can brake hard with of the tires; the Michelin tires have to be on what we believe to be our most critical point". the teammates you saw him running with? style, can you describe it to us? "His greatest the front disc and be very effective. This is driven with a little bit of cornering, while it Is it possible that Ducati had an advantage in electronics and "Surely, from the human point of view, Petrucci was the best team- strength is definitely his braking ability, he is when he gains the most, absolutely, his main could be different with the Bridgestone rub- that it has been reduced since the introduction of the single mate this year, because they knew each other and were friends perhaps the best or very close to it. We need characteristic is just that, he backs it off, that bers, which had less problems in front and inertial platform in 2019? before; Danilo is a very relaxed, quiet, friendly person and like Andrea to exploit this advantage, in any case every is why he needs to go fast". allowed keeping the brakes pulled all the "I honestly do not think that there was a major leveling in electronics has his feet on the ground. They created the ideal human relationship riding style should match the bike you have. Will you be able to bring more speed way into the middle of the corners. Michelin in 2019. Ducati is probably always the best from this point of view, the in recent years inside the box. The teammate who certainly stimulated Our bike goes well with this characteristic, into the corners next season? is struggling more to guarantee this strong electronics always do a great job and our strategies are among the him the most was Jorge, because he has a very different driving style: because it leads us to do incredible braking "It is the area we are trying to improve front end and so it leads to exploit the bike best; by strategies we mean, for example, traction control and engine you see a driver doing very different things, but at the same time

66 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 67 Andrea Dovizioso has become a consistent rider over time, probably because he managed to find the right balance between the white and black horses that are depicted in his helmet: Another moment of life in the pit, with the confrontation between the rider and the technician. A frequent situation on race the former symbolizes calm and tranquility, the latter impetuous and aggressiveness. weekends where the right conclusions have to be drawn from the analysis of the data, which are then translated into the final set-up for the day of the race. For the 2020 season, the objective of the entire Ducati team is to solve the biggest problem of the GP 19, which according to many is cornering speed. After all, the goal must be to do better than last year, so...

being fast, sometimes even faster than you, so you try to take positive wards you get used to it and you stop thinking about it every moment, everyone, 'Who do you think when I say because I started working for Ducati, first and where he was losing; I did this kind of cues to improve yourself. But when Iannone was there, it was a bit but when you stop for a moment you realize it: you're in the official pyjamas?' and the others said, 'Oh yes, it as an electronic technician with the Pramac work for two years, then with the arrival of more difficult for Andrea to develop a relationship with him; obviously team with a rider who was the runner-up in the world championship is him'. So, they all started calling me like team, with Niccolò Canepa in 2009, in 2010 Gigi Dall'Igna I was moved back to Pramac we were also looking at how he could do certain things with him, but in the last three seasons, you are with Ducati, you represent Italy and that. There are people who only know me as with Aleix Espargarò, with Randy De Puniet as a technical manager, so I was the Ducati as teammates I would identify Jorge as the perfect stimulus for him this always makes you very proud. It is exciting". 'Pigiamino' and don't know my real name, in 2011. Then a few things changed, Ducati reference in the team: I would advise the and Danilo at human level". There's also your nickname... but it is nice, having a nickname means believed in me and I became team leader chief technicians on possible set-up moves, What does it mean to work for Ducati at these levels? "You could say it, you could say it, you know, 'Pigiamino'. Andrea calls being accepted by the group, it is OK". with the Effenbert Superbike team in 2012: I also checked the assembly of the various "I remember perfectly when I went in for the interview in 2008. me 'Pigia', so to him I am 'Pigiamino' too." Life and career: "Originally from Col- that year went well because the pilot, Jakub parts, indicated the assembly procedures to Motorcycles and racing have always been my passion, but they Can you tell us how it was born? legno, in the province of Turin, I lived there Smrz, was quite fast. In 2013 we had to the mechanics and so on. After that year, it seemed out of reach; I studied, talked about it with my parents and it "When I joined Ducati, I was 25, but I looked even younger; Casey until I was 25 because I studied electronic create a team for Dovizioso in MotoGP, we was 2015, Andrea asked Ducati if I could seemed like it was something too far away, I had no connections and Stoner was there at the time and one night, one of the mechanics engineering at the Polytechnic of Turin for needed someone who could do data analysis become his team leader, which made me I didn not think it was possible. Then, it all happened very quickly, the on his team, jokingly said at dinner: 'OK, tonight we will put your the first three years, then mechatronics in and show Andrea the comparisons with the very happy. I have been working for him first few times in the paddock everything was incredible; yes, after- pyjamas on and send you to bed early'. Then he started asking the last two years. Then I moved to Bologna other riders to see where he was gaining ever since".

68 MD DOSSIER FEBRUARY 2020 FEBRUARY 2020 MD DOSSIER 69