Ducati Superleggera and Monster 1200 - EICMA 2013

As the week kicks off for the 2013 edition of EICMA, the Ducati press conference has now come and gone and provided us with the goods on a couple much anticipated motorcycles.

The majority of the proceedings were lead by Ducati CEO, Claudio Domenicali. In addition to the new bike unveils, he touched on the company's (and indeed the industry's) struggles over recent years and the fact that Ducati are winding down 2013 in a strong position with positive sales numbers and lots of growth potential in all areas of their business -- from motorcycles to apparel to retail outlets. Their focus, he told us, is all about "Performance Redefined", which means delivering on this very important aspect of what the brand means to the world of motorcycles -- performance.

One of the most talked about motorcycles leading up to this year's EICMA would have to be the 2014 1199 Superleggera. It's perhaps the embodiment of that "performance redefined" thing they are talking about. The Superleggera is a sexy, limited edition superbike that brings a true race pedigree to the road. Only question is, how to get your hands on one.

2014 1199 Superleggera:

• 166 Kg wet weight (no fuel)
• "The best ever engine made by Ducati"
• titanium exhaust valves
• new camshaft profiles and timing
• new piston with SBK crown surface
• lightweight crankshaft with tungsten counterweight plugs
• new gear-position sensor to enable new gear shifting strategy
• new racing derived air filter
• 200 hp!!!
• ABS
• Anti-Wheelie control system based on inertial measurement unit
• Quick setting switches
• Ducati Data Analyser with GPS and new lean angle acquisition
• Carbon fibre rear subframe
• Limited to 500 individually numbered units, 90% of them are already sold.

Since 1993, Ducati have sold 275,452 Monsters. No doubt, it's a staple of their motorcycle line-up. 2014 sees a fairly significant update to the Monster, but Ducati are quick to point out that they approached this refresh with keeping the styling queues and spirit of the Monster intact. The ergonomics of the new Monster are something they are proud of, finding that wonderful balance between sporty handling and all day comfort.

2014 Monster 1200:

• Steel trellis frame and subframe are attached to cylinder heads
• Testastretta water-cooled engine making 135 hp @ 8,750rpm
• Adjustable seat height
• Larger 17.5L fuel tank
• Collection of performance, style and touring accessories tailor made

2014 Monster 1200 S:

• Ohlins, fully adjustable suspension
• The same Brembo front brake system as the Panigale
• Engine produces an additional 10hp
• Machined cast wheels and extra carbon bits