The EICMA Motorcycle Show in Milan, which runs from November 14-19 this year, is rumored to be the venue in which Ducati will launch its next-generation top-of-the-line sportbike, which has allegedly grown from 1000cc to 1100cc (or thereabouts).
If the rumors from Europe are correct, the new bike will incorporate many styling elements that hark back to the firm’s timeless 916 design, including horizontal twin headlights and a single-sided swingarm. The new bike is likely to be somewhat leaner (visually) and sharper-edged than the old 916, however, following the trend set by the 999.
The new, larger-displacement motor has been designed to help Ducati keep pace with the current crop of Japanese 1000cc four-cylinders, and is likely to feature peak horsepower close to the leading machines in that class, with a significantly broader torque curve – in a package only marginally larger than that of the current 998cc mill.
Keep your eyes on Motorcycle Daily, where we’ll be delivering the latest news from the Milan show as soon as we get our hands on it.
