Innovation

Ducati electronics

The Ducati method: constant investment to develop new technologies internally

Maximum innovation to offer unforgettable riding experiences. Each Ducati is a magical mix of beauty and technology: a unique balance that the Borgo Panigale manufacturer has been able to build up over the years. Discover the Ducati method.

Many of the electronic systems that today constitute a standard on motorcycles in the various segments were first introduced by Ducati, which over the years has earned a place as one of the most avant-garde companies in the sector. In 2008, Ducati was the first motorcycle manufacturer to introduce Traction Control on a motorcycle, the 1098 R, raising the bar for performance and safety benchmarks of super sports bikes. The technological transfer from racing to production is one of the best examples of the ongoing commitment by the Research and Development team to constantly improve the technology of Ducati road bikes. A commitment that leads to the introduction of new technical solutions, but also to the evolution and improvement of existing models, year after year.

All the technological innovations introduced by Ducati in the last 15 years

Whether it is to enable the best track performance for a Panigale or to provide the most comfortable and exciting journey with a Multistrada, the Ducati R&D department has introduced technological innovations that have contributed to the most important evolutions in terms of safety and control in the entire motorcycle sector.

2008 - Traction Control DTC

In 2008, with the 1098R, Ducati was the first motorcycle manufacturer to introduce Traction Control on a motorcycle, raising the bar for performance and safety benchmarks of super sports bikes.

2009 - LED headlight

The LED headlight was introduced for the first time on a motorcycle by Ducati on the 2009 Streetfighter 1100, helping to enhance the design which received the accolade of "EICMA's most beautiful motorcycle" of that edition.

2010 - Riding Modes

In 2010, Ducati presented the first motorcycle in the world capable of "changing character" thanks to the presence of Riding Modes: the Multistrada 1200 S. From that moment on, the possibility of customizing riding style to adapt it to any condition has accompanied the electronic development of all Ducati bikes. Today it is almost impossible to find a motorbike without Riding Mode.

2011 - TFT instrumentation

The first TFT dashboard on a motorcycle was presented by Ducati on the Diavel in 2011. Today it is standard equipment on motorcycles in every segment.

2012 - Electronic Engine Brake Control (EBC)

In 2012, electronic engine braking management was introduced for the first time on the 1199 Panigale. This technology, derived from MotoGP and Superbike racing competition, allows the rider to adjust engine assistance when braking, improving handling when cornering.

2012 - Full-LED headlight

The 2012 1199 Panigale also introduced the first Full-LED light assembly on a motorcycle. A technological solution that combines functionality and design and helped to make the Ducati super sports bike win the 2014 Compasso d'Oro award.

2014 – Motorcycle Integrated Airbag Jacket

Since safety is a very important aspect for Ducati, in 2014 the Bologna-based company, together with Dainese, introduced the first motorcycle with an integrated system capable of communicating with the airbag in the jacket: the Multistrada 1200 Touring D|Air. At the time, airbag systems did not guarantee current safety standards, while the sophisticated Multistrada 1200 Touring D|Air system sent the activation signal in just 20 milliseconds in the event of a crash or slide.

2018 - Slide-by-Brake

In 2018 Ducati introduced the Slide By Brake system that allows controlled power sliding under braking on the Panigale V4.

2020 - Adaptive Cruise Control/Blind Spot Detection

Ducati was the first motorcycle manufacturer to introduce radars to the world of two wheels, which made it possible to implement the Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Detection systems.

2023 - Extended Deactivation

A unique technological innovation designed for long-distance travellers and introduced on the Multistrada V4 Rally in 2023. This technology allows the rear cylinders to be switched off at idle when the bike is stationary and the entire rear bank to be deactivated even when moving at low speeds.

Ducati Electronic Controls

View the pdf of Ducati Electronic Controls, with indications for each model

Electrical & Electronic Systems: development and creation of expertise

Ducati's approach is to develop internally, together with its suppliers, the technologies to be introduced on its motorcycles, simultaneously creating know-how within the Company. The drive towards innovation in electronics goes hand in hand with the growth of the Electrical & Electronic Systems department, which has seen its resources quadruple in just over ten years. Through the work of this department, which is part of the R&D, Ducati studies, develops and introduces new and often innovative systems into series production, obviously also drawing on experience from racing competition.

In addition to developing new technologies internally, Ducati has had several internal laboratories within the company for several years to carry out tests during the development phase, without necessarily having to rely on external resources or suppliers. One of these is Electrical & Electronic Testing which is responsible for evaluating the electrical and electronic components of the bikes in the range, putting them to the test to measure their quality and duration over time. The electronic components are tested simulating the most extreme temperatures and atmospheric events such as driving rain or salt spray. This department also carries out software debugging and mobile app activities since connectivity has become increasingly important in the motorcycle field.

All this is "the Ducati method". A working method that has allowed the Borgo Panigale company to create increasingly innovative products with increasing quality year after year, demonstrating how the strategic commitments of the Borgo Panigale company, from racing to research and development, through to investment in experimentation, are aimed, year after year, at giving Ducatisti the motorbikes of their dreams.

Technology and Design, always a Ducati trademark

From the Multistrada V4 to the Scrambler, electronics shape the character of each model, offering Ducatisti sophisticated solutions capable of providing unforgettable experiences on the bike.

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