Ducati Dives Deep into the Dirt

A New Era of Motocross Begins

Oct 26, 2023 | News

In a riveting twist to its legendary lineage, Ducati is gearing up to make a roaring entry into the world of motocross. Taking a detour from its asphalt supremacy, the iconic red from Borgo Panigale is set to paint the off-road tracks in shades of excitement and anticipation.

Ducati has been meticulously chiseling their prototype for two years, intending to debut it in the upcoming season of the Italian Motocross Championship. This move isn’t merely a one-off venture; Ducati is planning a full-fledged range of off-road engines and motorcycles. Motocross enthusiasts can soon expect a tantalizing line of knobby motorcycles branded under the esteemed Ducati banner.

But Ducati isn’t entering this new arena solo. The Bologna-based manufacturer has enlisted the prowess of nine-time Motocross World Champion, Antonio (Tony) Cairoli.

Cairoli’s unparalleled experience and speed are primed to play a pivotal role in shaping this fresh off-road marvel from Ducati.

Claudio Domenicali, the CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, radiated pride as he remarked, “Ducati’s entry into Motocross is a testament to our ambition of tapping into unchartered territories. We’re leveraging our expertise in creating lightweight, high-performance motorcycles to enthral a wider audience.”

Tony Cairoli mirrored the enthusiasm, expressing his pride in being an integral part of this all-Italian project. “Joining the Ducati universe, a beacon of Italian spirit, and contributing to the development of the motocross bike from Borgo Panigale, is truly a dream realized for me.”

 As a testament to their earnest dedication to this new venture, Ducati has inked a multi-year partnership with Maddii Racing, a stalwart in the motocross domain. Together, they aim to dominate the 2024 Italian Motocross Championship, with the formidable Alessandro Lupino at the helm.

What sets Ducati’s motocross project apart? A relentless pursuit of lightweight design, unparalleled components, and engines that promise an expansive power delivery curve. And not to forget, the unique Desmodromic system, a signature of Ducati’s sports bikes, right from the MotoGP circuits.

The decision to venture off-road is a strategic masterstroke for Ducati, marking their expansion into fresh terrains and beckoning a new generation of riders to the Ducati community.

Eager to get a sneak-peek of this motocross marvel in action? Hold onto your helmets and check out Ducati’s teaser video right here: Ducati’s Motocross Teaser.

Gear up, motocross aficionados! A new Ducati dawn awaits.

Photos/Videos: Ducati Media – Words: Mariano de la Torre

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