Ducati will have just two new models on display rather than their full range with a smaller scale stand than in previous years. However despite the economic climate that has resulted in other manufacturers taking the decision not to attend this year’s show at all, Ducati felt it was vital to not only support the UK’s premier motorcycle show but also not to deny the British public the opportunity to see one the most important and eagerly awaited bikes of 2010. The Multistrada 1200 unveiled recently at the Milan show stunned visitors with its innovative looks and class leading technology.

The Multistrada is a bike with the emphasis on ‘multi’ and could be described as four-bikes-in-one as its characteristics can be changed by the touch of a button to different riding modes: Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro. Power and torque delivery, suspension settings and traction control can be changed even while riding. The Multistrada incorporates many innovations including ride–by-wire, Ducati traction control (DTC), Ducati electronic suspension (DES), a new Testestretta 11° 150hp producing 87.5lb ft of torque and a host of other cutting edge specifications.

Weighing in at 189kg the Multistrada is lighter than any other road enduro, touring or sport touring bike currently available and coupled with class leading technology, Ducati has once again set the benchmark and is certain to be the biggest draw at the show. The Hypermotard 796 joins the Multistrada at the NEC and has already been lauded after its recent press launch in Bologna where it impressed with its agility and adeptness and will no doubt be a draw to those looking for a versatile urban companion.

The 796 is as aggressively striking as the 1100, but with a lower seat height, flexible 81hp engine and an overall weight of 167kg, the new 796 fuses aggression with mild manners, a perfect combination for the city or the open road. The Multistrada 1200 and Hypermotard 796 will offer a glimpse of the stunning new model line-up destined next year for Ducati showrooms. These two new models will be accompanied by Ducati UK’s premier clothing retailers Moto Icons who will be tempting visitors with a large selection of our stylish 2010 Apparel Collection.

Notes: The Multistrada 1200 will be available in four variants: Standard, Standard with ABS and ‘S’ in Sport or Touring versions. The Standard version is expected to be £10,995, prices for other variants to be confirmed. Full details of specifications can be found at www.ducatiuk.com or www.multistrada.ducati.com Hypermotard 796 is available in Standard and Matte versions.

Prices are £6,995 for Matte and £7,195 for the Standard. Full details of this bike and the new 2010 range can be found at www.ducatiuk.com