The 2018 Ducati 959 Corse is designed as a midsize track-day bike that you can ride on the road.
The Corse version features a titanium Akarpovic exhaust, Ohlins suspension, lightweight lithium battery, MotoGP livery and a suite of electronic rider aids.
It arrives in Australia in late April with pricing announced closer to arrival.
However, with all its added features, it is bound to cost several thousand more than the standard at $20,000.
Host of new Ducatis
The Corse was one of a host of new models unveiled today ahead of this week’s EICMA motorcycle Show in Milan.
The others are: the new Panigale V4 1409, 1409s and Speciale; Scrambler 1100, 1100 Special and 1100 Sport; Monster 821; Multistrada Enduro Pro; Multistrada 1260, 1260S and Pikes Peak; and a white XDiavel S.
The Corse was ridden on to the stage by World Superbike rider Chaz Davies and greeted by CEO Claudio Domenicali.
Claudio says the 959 Corse is a midsize track bike that is very rideable.
Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali with the new modelsHe had flown in to Milan from Qatar where he had just completed the last round in the SBK world championship, finishing second in the race and championship.
Corse power
The 955cc Superquadro engine is Euro 4 type-approved and has the same power and torque as the standard model at 110kW and 102Nm.
However, power-to-weight ratio is better because it’s 2.5kg lighter at 195.5kg, thanks to the lithium-ion battery and titanium muffler.
Valve clearance adjustment is only required every 24,000km.
The trick suspension features multi-adjustable titanium-nitride treated Öhlins NIX30 43mm forks and a multiadjustable Öhlins TTX36 shock-absorber.
It also has an Ohlins adjustable steering damper.
The 959 Panigale Corse is fitted with an electronics package that includes ABS, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Quick Shift, Engine Brake Control and Ride-by-Wire.
There are also three riding modes: Race, Sport and Wet.