Revving Up the Dirt: Akrapovič and Ducati’s Bold Leap into Off-Road Racing

In the world of motorcycle racing, partnerships between manufacturers and exhaust system experts are not just common but pivotal. The latest buzz stirring excitement amongst enthusiasts is the extension of the already successful partnership between Akrapovič and Ducati into the realm of off-road racing. This move marks a significant step for both giants, promising to shake up the dirt tracks with their combined expertise and innovation.

Background of the Collaboration:

Akrapovič, a name synonymous with high-performance exhaust systems, has been a key player in Ducati’s racing successes. The synergy between these two has been evident with Ducati riders Francesco Bagnaia, Álvaro Bautista, and Nicolò Bulega clinching world championship titles in 2023, all with the power of Akrapovič exhausts propelling their machines.

The official announcement of this extended collaboration was made at the Campioni in Pista 2024 event in Madonna di Campiglio, Italy. Here, amidst the glitz and glamour, the Ducati Corse Off-Road team revealed their ambitious plans for the upcoming season.

The Ducati Corse Off-Road Team’s New Venture:

The heart of this new venture lies in the development of the 450 prototype, a machine that promises to redefine off-road performance. The team has enlisted the expertise of nine-time MX World Champion Antonio Cairoli as a high-performance test rider. His role is crucial, providing invaluable feedback and direction in the development of this new motorcycle.

Joining him is Alessandro Lupino, an eight-time Italian Champion and 2021 MXoN winner, bringing his own set of skills and experience to fine-tune the bike within the demanding confines of racing.

Technical Innovations and Challenges:

The Ducati Desmo450 MX prototype, equipped with the all-new Akrapovič exhaust, is slated to debut in the 2024 Italian Motocross Championship. This partnership emphasizes high-performance, lightness, and durability. The engine’s design focuses on delivering a broad power curve, essential for the unpredictable nature of off-road racing.

Akrapovič’s contribution is pivotal, with a bespoke exhaust system crafted from lightweight titanium, designed to endure the rigors of off-road racing while meeting upcoming FIM noise regulations. This system is the result of intensive cooperation between Ducati Corse and Akrapovič engineers, aiming to optimize the Ducati’s unique powerplant.

Akrapovič’s Legacy and Future Aspirations:

Since its inception in 1991, Akrapovič has celebrated 175 world champions across road and off-road racing. This legacy of excellence is being channeled into the development of the Ducati Desmo450 MX prototype. Paolo Ciabatti, General Manager of Ducati Corse Off-Road, expresses immense satisfaction with this extended collaboration, citing Akrapovič’s expertise in high-performance titanium exhaust systems as invaluable, especially with the stringent FIM noise regulations on the horizon.

Slavko Alojz Trstenjak, Head of Akrapovič Racing R&D, echoes this sentiment. The integration of their racing R&D with their production exhaust systems R&D has been a strategic move, ensuring the delivery of a system that meets the high standards of demanding racers.

As we gear up for this thrilling new chapter in off-road racing, the partnership between Akrapovič and Ducati Corse holds immense promise. Their combined focus on innovation, performance, and compliance with future regulations sets the stage for a formidable presence in the motocross tracks. For fans and racers alike, this collaboration is not just about two giants joining forces; it’s about redefining the limits of what’s possible in the exhilarating world of off-road motorcycle racing.