New Ducati 899 Panigale
The engine has been designed as the structural element of the frame. As such, its architecture has been completely reviewed to ensure the best design in terms of structure, weight distribution and robustness.
The cylinders, at a 90° angle to each other, have been rolled back an additional 6° on the crankcase to produce a 21° angle between the front cylinder and the horizontal plane. This has allowed the engine to go forward, accordingly improving the distribution of weights between the front and rear end and achieving the perfect position of the fastening points of the cylinder heads into the monocoque chassis of the 899 Panigale.
The 899 Panigale’s chassis continues the innovative Monoscocca concept: different components have been integrated to give shape to a single compact and lightweight element that also enhances the rider’s posture to perfect the riding position. The monocoque structure in cast aluminium for increased strength uses the Superquadro engine as a structural element and allows Ducati Superbikes to be lightest-in-class. The monocoque frame is fixed directly to the cylinder head, and at its front are two aluminium bushings inserted with the steering tube bearings. In addition to performing the traditional function of a frame, the monocoque also acts as an airbox. Housed inside it, in addition to the air filter, are the throttle bodies and fuel circuit complete with injectors; and the bottom of the aluminium tank (lighter by 1.9% compared to previous generation Superbikes) becomes its cover when mounted in place.
The 9ME ABS standard on the 899 Panigale is a latest-generation system with two channels that performs combined braking with control of rear wheel lifting to guarantee not only shorter braking distances, but also the greatest stability during braking. Specifically intended for sport use, the 9ME ABS offers three levels of operation, each associated with a Riding Mode; in the Race mode, the system works only on front discs to allow advanced track braking techniques for expert riders.