Motorcycles and news

The Ducati Desmo Challenge, the event that Ducati dedicates to true motorcycle fans, is a unique opportunity that the Italian sportsbike manufacturer is offering to all riders: the possibility of racing exclusively on circuits both in Italy and abroad, in total safety, and of experiencing emotions that only a true race is able to offer.

In order to take part you must possess a Ducati (or a bike with a Ducati engine) and the desire to share your passion with other friends, in a unique and enjoyable setting.

You do not need to be a professional rider in order to take part: the Challenge is a racing event for fans of all ages and all levels of experience.

The next edition of the Ducati Desmo Challenge is divided into the following five classes:

- Superbike: Open 4 valves;
- Protwins: Open 2 valves;
- Superstock: 999 and 1098;
- Supersport 748 and 749 all models. (From this year it is possible, with the all-inclusive rental formula, to hire out a 749R specially prepared for the Challenge. For further information, please contact +39 328 1686750).
- SportClassic (Sport 1000* and Paul Smart with special kit).

The different categories will obviously have separate classifications: beginners with their first FMI licence, women, gentlemen-riders and ‘naked’ bikes in the Superbike and Protwins categories.

A provisional racing calendar is as follows:

April 21-22 Magione (PG)
May 5-6 Varano de’ Melegari (PR)
June 2-3 Vallelunga (Roma)
June 28-29-30 Misano Adriatico (RN)
July 21-22 Pannoniaring (Ungheria)**
October 5-6-7 Misano Adriatico (RN) ­ to be confirmed

Despite the fact that the calendar is still provisional, the first change in the 2007 trophy is that this year the championship will be held over six races, including one abroad. But the real highlight is that the Misano race at the end of June will coincide with the 2007 World Ducati Week, the long-awaited world Ducati bike rally, which gives all Challenge entrants a chance to race on the new Misano World Circuit in front of thousands of fans who will pack the new race-track.

The cost of participating in the Ducati Desmo Challenge is Euro 2300 + VAT (entry is open from 15/01/2007). The registration fee includes one day of free practice before the start of the Challenge (place and date to be defined), one set of tyres, free practice, entry to all races and a discount of 20% on the 2007 Ducati Accessories catalogue.

Entry forms and further information can be viewed and downloaded from the www.ducati.it website while the Challenge general regulations will be available soon.