2014 Ducati Motorcycles
At an international press conference Monday ahead of EICMA (Milan Motorcycle Show), Ducati previewed its 2014 range of motorcycles, company performance, and 2014 racing plans at the Leonardo da Vinci Science and Technology Museum in Milan.
The highlight of the conference was the presentation of three new models, including the 899 Panigale “Supermid,” the Panigale Superleggra, and the all-new Monster 1200 and 1200 S. Ducati reports a fourth new model will be unveiled in early 2014.
We already reported on the 899 and the Superleggera, but Monday was the first time we received the official information Ducati’s latest Monster. The Monster, which enters its 21st year of production in 2014, will now feature a four-bike lineup. The 2014 Monster 696 and 796 will be joined by the all-new Monster 1200 and 1200 S, the latter bringing back memories of the S4R and S4RS Monsters.
These Monster 1200 machines feature the 1198 Testastretta 11-degree DS second-generation engine that’s offered in the Multistrada, the powerplant set up for additional mid-range power for true streetability. The standard model produces 135 horsepower at 8750 rpm, and due to different mapping, the “S” model produces 145 horsepower at 8750 rpm.
In the electronics department, the Monster 1200 and 1200 S arrive with eight levels of traction control, three levels of ABS, and three Riding modes.
The new Monster 1200 also features Brembo brakes, Kayaba/Sachs suspension, a single-sided swingarm, and lightweight alloy wheels. The 1200 S is upgraded with Ohlins suspension, and bigger 330mm brake discs (base 1200 has 320mm discs).
Both bikes weigh in 401 pounds dry, and are available in red with a red frame. The 1200 S gets glossy black, three-spoke wheels over the standard’s black, 10-spoke wheels. The 1200 S is also available in white with a bronze frame and glossy black wheels.
As for price, the Monster 1200 will run $13,495, and the Monster 1200 S $15,995. We’ll have a full preview posted shortly.
At the conference, Ducati’s CEO Claudio Domenicali also offered comment on the importance of EICMA, and the Bologna-based company’s performance since joining the Audi Group in 2012.
Claudio Domenicali (Ducati CEO) says: “For Ducati, EICMA is a key, strategic event. Despite the slow market, Ducati looks to the future with optimism and confidence, implementing both a major product development plan and constant technological innovation. Data from the first nine months of 2013 shows that the same momentum that has enabled us grow over the last three years is being maintained and we fully expect to repeat the achievements of 2012, a year in which Ducati broke all previous records in terms of sales, output and revenues.
“Three of the stunning new models for 2014 will be presented at our stand here in Milan and we are certain that the vast ‘Ducatista’ fan base will be delighted with them. In addition to the 899 Panigale, which will be making its official public debut, we will also be presenting the 1199 Superleggera, an incredible motorcycle engineered to levels of technology and performance never seen before on a production bike. Only 500 of these individually numbered motorcycles are being built, and 90% of them have already been sold, even before its official presentation.
“And finally, comes the long-awaited new Monster 1200, a sports bike that with its advanced technology, is also perfect for everyday use. Rider-friendly with enhanced safety and always a sure source of endless enjoyment, it also provides the sophisticated character and thrill of being a true Ducati.”
Joining Domenicali at the Ducati-EIMCMA 2013 conference was Walter de Silva, Head of Volkswagen Group Design. Silva has received many awards for his designs, and emphasizes the importance of Italian styling.
Walter de Silva (Head of Volkswagen Group Designs) says: “I’m delighted to be here with Ducati for the presentation of the new 2014 models. Above all, I am proud of how Italian design is always as distinctive as it is successful. Indeed, design is a cornerstone of the Volkswagen Group. My contribution to the Ducati Design Centre is a contribution of process improvement and enhanced integration with the Group.
“Together with Ducati, I am learning how to assess new motorcycle models, a process that differs greatly from the world of car design in that rider and motorcycle form a single entity. This is an exciting area that can lead to outstanding results in terms of styling and in-Group synergy. Many Ducati motorcycles, especially the latest models just presented such as the 1199 Superleggera or the new Monster 1200, epitomize the Italian style for which we are renowned and revered worldwide.”
Ducati then confirmed all racing plans for 2014 following a poor 2013 season in MotoGP and World Superbike. For 2014, Ducati Corse will be under the guidance of Luigi Dall’Igna, the former boss at Aprila Racing. In 2014 World Superbike, Chaz Davies and Davide Giugliano will pilot the 1199 Panigale. In 2014 MotoGP, Andrea Dovizioso and Cal Crutchlow will pilot the GP13.
Also, Ducati presented its 2014 Accessory and Apparel collection, including the “Capsule Collection,” which offers the Ducati “lifestyle” look also for casual wear.
