Forget summer and don’t plan your Christmas parties just yet… for motorcycle enthusiasts, the Autumn period is the highlight of the year as launches and reveals begin trickling out ahead of the big shows in Tokyo and at EICMA – and Ducati is no exception.
Once upon a time EICMA was the place for manufacturers to get the ‘wow factor’ from pulling those slinky wraps off a new motorcycle but the age of the internet means it’s increasingly tough for firms to keep those machines a secret before the big day.
Ducati is no exception here either based on the number of spy shots leaked over the last few weeks.
However, some firms are taking back the initiative and using the internet for their advantage, with the Borgo Panigale marque now grabbing back some of the limelight by unveiling its latest machines online (on October 23) and in one place without having to worry about keeping its press conference to schedule before journalists dash over to a rival firm doing the same thing in another hall.
Of course, we’ll be right there at EICMA to touch and coo at some sexy new metal in November but what can we expect to see over the net before we do in person?
Ducati Streetfighter V4
Whilst the publicity trail has been somewhat low key since the tragic death of Carlin Dunne during the Pikes Peak International Hillclimb (caused by rider error and not because of an issue with the bike), the Ducati Streetfighter V4 is nonetheless the big reveal we’re expecting in October.
Circumstances notwithstanding, that Pikes Peak outing – using a ‘prototype’ that looked remarkably preocution readywhich was dubbed a prototype – gives us a very clear indication of what we can expect from the much anticipated stripped back Panigale, which will have its naked rivals no doubt quaking in their rubber boots.
If the launch is therefore less about how the bike will look (though it will be good to see it in full scarlet regalia no doubt) then it’ll be a chance to get some specific specs and performance figures, which will no doubt get us salivating before we get the chance to throw a leg over it.
Ducati Multistrada 1260GT
Though many expected to see a new Multistrada V4 this year, it seems Ducati has quietly played down those fevered expectations by revealing – in the most subtle way at the bottom of a press release celebrating a production milestone – that while the much vaunted machine is on its way, it won’t be until 2021. In short, expect it to be the headline draw for the 2021 Ducati range reveal in approximately 12 months’ time.
Instead, there will be a new flagship Ducati Multistrada 1260GT, which had its existence revealed in EPA filings a few weeks ago, which in turn caused some confusion for those anticipating the above V4.
With the Multistrada range becoming a showcase for Ducati’s latest innovations – such a offering rider modes and a system that works with leathers suit-airbags technology – the new top of the range 1260 GT is anticipated to be continuing this tradition with the inclusion of its ARAS (Advanced Rider Assistance Systems) Radar Cruise Control system, which could be a game changer for the industry that will trickle down over time.
There may also be some styling updates which will likely form the basis of the (eventually) incoming Multistrada V4.
Ducati Panigale 959
Perhaps the most anticipated machine expected (probably) to make an appearance is an updated Ducati 959, not least because it is the one we perhaps know the least about.
Recently ‘papped’ on test alongside the Multistrada, the fact the firm had gone to lengths to disguise it suggests there is ‘something’ new on the way for the ‘baby Panigale’.
Styling looks set to adopt the lithe, aggressive design language of the Panigale V4, but it is under the skin where most will be interested as there is talk Ducati has been developing a ‘smaller V4’ to really bring it into line with its big brother.
Then again, are we willing to accept a Ducati range without a V2 yet? Provided it can meet Euro 5 emissions regulations, the 959 could well provide the torquey alternative if there remains a desire to keep it.
Ducati Scrambler
Another Ducati that potentially had its big debut rather unceremoniously spoiled by filings at the EPA, the 2020 model listing revealed two previously unseen trim levels – the Ducati Scrambler 1100 Pro and 1100 Sport Pro.
On the plus side, the names reveal precious little about the character of these bikes though – not least because they share the same power figures as their 1100 siblings – but educated speculating would have us expecting more focused underpinnings with suspension and brakes upgrades.
This would put it more directly into range with the Triumph Scrambler 1200, arguably its biggest rival in the category.
Ducati Monster
There could be a more to come from the Monster range but in the meantime we know there will be a new ‘Black on Black’ colour addition, which gives the machine a moodier appearance compared with its traditional rouge counterpart. Mechanically it remains the same as Monster 1200 S.
As for an updated model, the Ducati Monster 821 is due an update, not least to bring it up to Euro 5 emissions regulations so if it comes, expect an updated powerplant.
