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Italian motorcycle manufacturers are a rare breed – their ability to infuse modernistic styling with raw power lets them stand out of the crowd of other superbikes, especially those from the Orient. Their attention to detail is particularly visible on the Ducati machines, which are considered to be some of the fastest production bikes ever made. The Ducati Desmosedici GP16 is not one for ordinary riders, being one of the most sought-after prototypes that infuse the world of motorcycling with technology that trickles down to other machines on the roads for years. One of the fastest motorcycles ever made, the Ducati Desmosedici GP16 is one that is sure to scorch up the tracks this MotoGP season. Aesthetics and Performance The Ducati Desmocedici GP16 has been completely remodelled from the ground up, considering that this machine would compete with some of the fastest motorcycles on the planet! The Desmosedici has a low fuel tank that is used more as a placeholder for the rider’s weight; with the net weight of the motorcycle at a measly 157kgs, while the motorcycle can deliver over 270bhp and boasts of some of the best top speeds in the world, easily crossing the 200mph mark. Ducati has also introduced a pair of winglets on each side to improve the aerodynamic forces that such high speeds can wreak havoc on the riders. The exhaust from Akrapovic is one of the finest in the market, capable of giving the bike a tight, high-pitched hum that one would expect from an F1 car! The superior engine coupled with the improved drivability of the motocycle lets it make super-steep lean angles as great a 63 degrees; while the improved electronics providing traction control and throttle control prevent accidental backspins and wheelies, especially while coming out of tight corners. One of the most striking changes to the GP16 edition has been the introduction of a seamless gearbox, which is extremely different from conventional motorcycles with fixed gears. The seamless gearbox lets the engineers tune the motorcycle according to the track conditions, and provide the perfect power delivery required to lead the pack. In addition, the rider is in a low and supine position, which provides them with greater control over the movement of the two-wheeler. MotoGP riders prefer to use their shoulders to steer, and the Ducati Desmosedici GP16 is no different – the handlebars and fuel-tank are created specifically to let MotoGP riders get the best possible position to steer the vehicle with ease. Riding on the Tracks The Ducati Desmosedici GP16 is one of most intriguing racing motorcycles to taken out for a ride. The prototype is one of the best motorcycles, and it has its unique touches that differentiate it from all other sportsbikes. The gear shift pattern is taken from those of cruisers – with the shifts being done in upward movement, unlike regular sportsbikes where the shifting pattern is usually “One up Five Down”. The neutral is placed at the very top of the shifting chain, and it makes getting used to the Desmosedici a time-taking affair, especially if one is used to street-legal superbikes. The seamless gears create an odd gliding effect not seen on other motorcycles, which creates a smoother transition while shifting gears as well as eliminating wheelies during gear changes while getting in and out of corners. Performing more like a drag bike, the Desmosedici is nothing but a monster on the straights, and can easily reach 200mph on appropriate stretches. Final Review Being a prototype, the Ducati Desmosedici GP16 would rarely see any production outside the MotoGP racing circles. However, it should be noted that the technology and craftsmanship that has gone on to the development of such a model would definitely trickle down to Ducati’s other motorcycles; giving you a safer and smoother ride.