Ducati = performance. The Borgo Panigale manufacturer stays true to its core image, and at EICMA it presented a range of new models spanning all the commercial segments covered by the iconic Italian brand. Two highlights, however, stand out: the 2026 versions of the Monster and the cross racing Desmo250 MX
In 2026—specifically on July 4—Ducati will celebrate its 100th anniversary, a century defined by a passion for technology and the pursuit of maximum performance. This spirit was reinforced at EICMA with displays of the official race bikes that have represented the brand worldwide, alongside commercial models redesigned to boost performance. Among these, the most striking is certainly the launch of the new Monster lineup, guided by the slogan “Everything you need, nothing more,” powered by a new V2 engine with 890cc displacement, featuring bore and stroke dimensions of 96 x 61.5 mm, and claimed to be the lightest V-twin ever produced by Ducati.
Weighing just over 54 kg—6 to 9 kg less than other V-twins—it incorporates exclusive technical solutions such as the IVT (Intake Variable Timing) system on the intake, DLC treatment on the rocker arms, and hollow valves. The IVT continuously adjusts intake valve timing over a 52° range via a camshaft-end phase variator, optimizing overlap almost in real time based on engine speed and throttle position. This produces a smooth and sustained power curve even at low and mid-range RPMs, with more than 70% of peak torque available at 3,000 rpm, and torque never dropping below 80% from 3,500 to 11,000 rpm.
Reliability is ensured by a chain-driven timing system, DLC-treated finger rocker arms (as on the Desmosedici MotoGP), and chromed, hollow valve stems—saving around 5% of weight. Thin-walled aluminum cylinder liners are installed in the crankcase bores during assembly, allowing the head to be mounted directly on the block, combining structural rigidity with compact design. The die-cast engine cases integrate the water jackets around the cylinders, optimizing heat exchange with the coolant. The cylinders are tilted back 20° for improved weight distribution, and being a 90° V engine, it achieves natural primary balance, eliminating the need for balance shafts.
Despite its light weight, the engine also features reinforced connecting rods and a flywheel with 12% more rotational inertia for smoother low-RPM performance. Fuel is delivered via a 52 mm circular throttle body with an under-throttle injector controlled by a ride-by-wire system offering four power modes, including gear-specific torque mapping for optimal throttle response. Detonation sensors and an intake bypass between the airbox and cylinder intake ports improve
air-fuel mixing and overall efficiency.
On the new Monster, the engine produces 111 hp at 9,000 rpm with 91 Nm of torque at 7,250 rpm, while the racing version can reach 126 hp at 10,000 rpm and 98 Nm at 8,250 rpm. The engine is a structural component of a monocoque frame with a twin-arm swingarm, supporting rider, passenger, and luggage via a polymer rear element and trellis structure. Suspension is Showa with 43 mm inverted forks, while Brembo brakes feature 320 mm dual front discs with radial M4.32 calipers and specially developed pads for smooth initial bite and high braking power when required.
Title: Ducati Monster e Desmo250 Mx: top innovation
Translation with ChatGPT
