Ducati Desmosedici

2003 was a banner year for the Ducat entry. Pole, podium and a win in the first session ws a collosal achievement for thsi small company. 2004 was not nearly as happy. 2005 has to be a progressive year, one with less revolution and more innovation. The V-4 configuration has worked well. They have tried sequencial and ignition and "big bang" motors The engine is a very high reving, desmo valve equiped V-4. Ducati considers it a 'double twin.' Also tried this year (2005) has been the electronically controlled clutch, and some anti-engine braking mechanicals. These seem to have increased fuel consumption - a potentially big issue this year - and reduced reliabilty, tossing all the test riders off at some point. So far the system hasn't been used in a race. The image is a CAD drawing Ducati has release, Ducati has been economical with images of the engine, which first ran in May 2002. Note the swingarm is mounted to the cases.