2010 Ducati Superbike 1198 on 2040-motos

Moto blog

Rossi Reveals Ducati Desmosedici GP12

Valentino Rossi has released the first photograph of the factory Ducati Desmosedici GP12 ahead of the MotoGP pre-season test at Malaysia’s Sepang circuit. The Doctor and Ducati teammate Nicky Hayden will test the GP12 alongside the other MotoGP teams and their race bikes this week to prepare for the upcoming 2012 season. The GP12 is said to be made of 90% new components, including an aluminum frame, a conventional design for most MotoGP teams but new for Ducati coming off of the ultimately unsuccessful carbon monocoque design.

Looking after number 1

There was a time when a rider’s number indicated his position from the previous season, with the ultimate accolade being the number 1 emblazoned on the front of the champion's bike. The rise of branding in MotoGP and a rider wanting to market themselves, born from Barry Sheene and his retention of no.7, saw riders decide against displaying their finish from the year before. Rossi, who on winning his numerous championships, stuck with his famous #46 in defence of his titles, instead of stamping a great number 1 on his bikes.

Saltarelli Classic Ducati Collection Up for Auction

One of the world’s largest private collections of Ducati motorcycles is going on the auction block. Former Ducati factory test rider, racer and dealer Carlo Saltarelli is selling his collection of classic motorcycles at RM Auction‘s biennial auction in Monaco on May 11-12 during the Grand Prix of Monaco Historique. Saltarelli’s collection includes 100 motorcycles including a 1970 ex-Works Ducati 450 Desmo Corsa which was featured in the Ducati museum in Bologna, Italy.