Ducati has  run two Ducati Multistrada motorcycles in the historic “Carrera Panamericana” car race, further proving the Italian manufacturer’s 4-bikes-in-1, all-terrain technology, while providing a two-wheeled analysis for event organizers. With a history that dates back to the 1950’s, La Carrera Panamericana is arguably the most unique, most challenging road race in the world. The event, setup in a stage rally format, takes drivers through the colonial heart of Mexico. Beginning in the city of Huatulco and running 1600 miles north to Zacatecas over 7 days, the race has historically offered car racers, expert and novice, an opportunity to experience the thrills of the original Pan Am at speeds pushing the cars and the drivers to their limit.

For the 2011 adventure race organizer, Eduardo Leon, reached out to Ducati with an idea to incorporate a motorcycle class for 2012 and beyond. “Ducati was a natural choice for this challenge considering their pedigree and diverse racing achievements from around the world, plus they have the perfect motorcycle to conquer the course,” said Mr. Leon. Ducati has elected to send a team of two pilots to thoroughly experience the race from the perspective of a motorcyclist. Carlin Dunne and Roland Brown, both riding the Ducati Multistrada 1200S Touring, participated in the entire rally, giving feedback and consultation to help integrate motorcycles in the future.

Ducati’s own Carlin Dunne will pilot Multistrada #1, using his extensive experience in racing both on and off road to navigate the challenges of the 7-day rally. Dunne, having recently won the 2011 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, while also setting an all time motorcycle record for the race, brings an expert knowledge of the Multistrada and its diverse capabilities for such a race.

Roland Brown, piloting Multistrada #2, is without doubt one of the planet's most widely read motorcycle journalists. The Englishman has been riding and writing about bikes for over 20 years, and, in addition to his own racing experience has probably ridden everything ever built. Roland brings his expertise and enthusiasm to the event, where the officials of La Carrera Panamericana, and Ducati, patiently await his feedback.

In addition to the riders, a team of specialists provided support by running chase trucks, providing support for the motorcycles and documenting the entire journey through video, photos and the written word. La Carrera Panamericana is one the of the last great unbridled public road races where man and machine partner to ride full-throttle against a treacherous cross-country course with the unknown around every corner.

Read the entire day by day race diary!