Ducati Desmosedici GP12

This is the fastest, most powerful and most high-tech motorcycle Ducati have ever made. Yes, it’s the Desmosedici GP12 racebike, which Valentino Rossi and Nicky Hayden will ride in the 2012 MotoGP. With new tech regulations coming in this year, the GP12 is powered by a 90-degree, Desmodromic, 1,000cc DOHC V4 that produces 230 horsepower. With a dry weight of 157 kilos, the Desmosedici GP12 can hit a top speed of more than 330km/h.

All-new bits on the GP12 include Ducati Seamless Transmission (DST), and aluminium twin-spar chassis in place of last year’s carbonfibre monocoque frame. The bike’s Magneti Marelli electronic fuel injection operates via four throttle bodies and the throttle is operated and controlled via Ducati’s new EVO TCF (Throttle Control and Feedback) system.

A 48mm inverted fork at the front and and single shock absorber at the back, both Öhlins units, handle suspension duties and are fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping. The Ducati GP12 rides on 16.5-inch wheels shod with Bridgestone rubber and braking duties are taken care of by twin 320mm Brembo carbon brake discs at front, with four-piston calipers, and single stainless steel disc at the back, with a two-piston caliper.