What makes Ducati motorbikes so desirable?

If you are looking for a stylish new bike, Ducati motorcycles are sure to be among the options you are considering. The name is one of the best known in the industry, synonymous with quality, speed and flamboyance.

The Italian company manufactures a wide range of bikes, including everything from the Diavel cruiser to the 1199 Panigale superbike and, of course, the famous Monster. All use state-of-the-art technology to improve the rider experience, but that isn't why Ducati is so highly regarded among the motorcycle community.

In fact, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact reason for the brand's desirability. Part of its X factor undoubtedly comes from the fact the company is Italian, as the country is famed for its style in everything from clothes to sports cars.

Another major reason why Ducati is such an attractive name is its association with success on the track, which ensures all of its machines have credibility with bikers. It currently has a MotoGP team that features Valentino Rossi and Nicky Hayden, while four World Superbike teams use Ducati bikes.

The company's record in superbike racing is impressive, with 16 world manufacturers' titles and 15 for its riders. British motor racing fans have a particular association with the brand, as Carl Fogarty, Neil Hodgson and James Toseland all won the championship while riding Ducatis.

Those exploits on the track have inspired devotion among bikers around the world and Ducatisti - as owners are known - have formed more than 200 clubs in 36 different countries. Members meet up at race meetings and events around the world to show off their machines and talk all things Ducati. There are three official clubs in the UK, but you will find groups to discuss your passion with everywhere from the US to New Caledonia.

When you visit a motorbike sales outlet to look for a new machine, you can be confident that a Ducati will give you style and earn kudos from fellow riders, but you will also want to know a little more about the performance you can expect.

The manufacturer is famed for a number of technical features in bikes across its range, such as the steel tubular Trellis frame and L-Twin engine. Its motorcycles also benefit from the unique Desmodromic valve control system. One of the key Ducati parts, it closes valves mechanically to ensure exact timing at all engine speeds.

Its range of bikes is impressive, but all are aimed at experienced riders who have the skills to handle powerful machines. Perhaps the most popular of its range is the Ducati Monster, a beautifully-styled naked bike available in 696, 796 and 1100 cc versions. For many riders, this is the ultimate in motorcycle ownership.

Another option that is sure to interest you is the Ducati Diavel cruiser, which generates 162 hp from its 1198 cc engine. That power is accompanied by a selection of safety features, including traction control and ABS, but what sets this machine apart is its muscular styling.

If you are a real racing enthusiast, your preferred choice is likely to be the Ducati 1199 Panigale, which is based on the machines used in the World Superbike championship. It combines state-of-the-art electronics, a monocoque chassis and precision handling with an incredible 195 hp for a truly exhilarating riding experience.