Ducati 1199 Panigale merges components, sheds weight [w/gallery]

Ducati has released an image of its new 1199 Panigale without its fairings, illustrating how multiple elements of the bike have been fused together to make it incredibly lightweight and compact.

The motorcycle manufacturer has managed to reduce the overall dry weight to be reduced by 10kg to a benchmark weight of just 164kg.

The monocoque connects to the specially-designed engine's cylinder heads and comes forward to house the steering head bearings.

This forms the airbox along the way, which is then sealed when the lightweight aluminum fuel tank is attached.

The die-cast aluminum rear sub-frame and lowered exhaust system connects to the engine. The magnesium front sub-frame is fused to the monocoque frame, providing secure support for the headlamp, instrument panel and fairings.

Using the Superquadro engine as a stressed member of the chassis, the die-cast aluminum monocoque construction helps to reduce the weight by 5kg. 

Ducati's signature 90-degree L-twin cylinder configuration has been maintained but the engine has been rotated further to improve weight distribution.

Earlier this month it was reported that Audi was looking to purchase the Ducati brand, despite the motorcycle manufacturer's long-standing relationship with Mercedes-Benz's off-shoot, AMG.

By Rufus Thompson