Ducati has made adjustments to nearly every component of the motorcycle to enhance its performance and speed.
Electric motorcycles
They have made significant progress in a brief period. It wasn’t so long ago that they faced mockery within the motorcycle community. The thundering sound of conventional gasoline engines seemed irreplaceable, and the idea of quiet, electric motorcycles failed to generate excitement among enthusiasts.
Today, however, electric motorcycles have transcended their status as mere novelties; they’re firmly established and here for good. Even the leading figures and traditional powerhouses within the motorcycle sector, who previously overlooked electrification, are now embracing this shift.
Ducati
For example, it is currently perched at the pinnacle of the electric motorcycle industry.
Why? Because their bicycles are being utilized in nothing less than the
MotoE World Championship.
A short time back, Ducati wouldn’t have considered producing an electric motorcycle at all. Such a notion seemed impossible—until suddenly it wasn’t. Today, the company renowned for its high-performance internal combustion engines is spearheading innovation in electric racing with their
V21L
stepping into the spotlight at the MotoE World Championship. This is significant because MotoE serves as the electric version of MotoGP, and since 2023, Ducati’s V21L has dominated this category. This underscores how rapidly things are evolving, with Ducati firmly positioned at the forefront, wholeheartedly welcoming the new era.
The V21L is presently being tested to guarantee optimal performance for the 2025 MotoE World Championship.
As the 2025 season approaches, Ducati’s V21L is undergoing numerous enhancements, underscoring their commitment to maintaining their lead over competitors. These modifications go beyond minor adjustments; instead, they encompass advancements in all areas of the motorcycle.
Let’s begin with the battery, often considered the core component of an electric bike. In preparation for the 2025 season, Ducati’s team has significantly enhanced this aspect. The updated V21L model features a battery pack equipped with high-density cells. Replacing the old 4.2 Ah units, these new 5 Ah cells offer greater energy storage within the same volume. This change leads to a sleeker, more efficient design without compromising performance or travel distance.
Ducati successfully reduced the cell count in the battery pack from 1,152 to 960, which shaved off an impressive 8.2 kilograms from the motorcycle. Despite this weight reduction, the bike retains its performance levels, potentially improving lap times by up to three to four-tenths of a second, contingent upon the track layout.
However, the enhancements aren’t limited to the battery alone. Ducati has also improved the V21L’s handling and stability. By incorporating new steering bushings, the motorcycle has gained an additional four millimeters in length, enhancing its steadiness during deceleration without changing its geometric setup. Additionally, the swingarm pivot is now adjustable in height, allowing teams to fine-tune the bike’s performance according to the rider’s needs or specific circuit requirements.
Ducati keeps advancing the frontiers of high-performance electric superbike technology.
Ducati has also made significant advancements with respect to the V21L’s unsprung mass. Beginning from the Dutch Grand Prix in 2025, this model will feature a new rear wheel weighing 600 grams less. Although this reduction may seem minor, decreasing unsprung weight can greatly enhance vehicle control and performance.
These enhancements collectively position the V21L as a stronger competitor, yet Ducati shows no signs of halting their progress. The inaugural 2025 MotoE championship begins with tests from April 11 to 13 at the Barcelona Circuit, followed by the initial race set for May 10 at Le Mans. This season comprises seven events, each featuring double races, promising an exhilarating series ahead. Fans can look forward to legendary circuits such as Assen, Red Bull Ring, and Misano being part of the schedule, culminating in the finale held in Portugal towards year-end.
It’s evident that Ducati’s involvement in MotoE goes beyond mere racing; it’s integral to their broader plan for long-term growth. Similar to what happened during the formative years of MotoGP, numerous advancements showcased on racetracks might eventually find their way into production bikes. In the foreseeable future, we may well witness an electric road motorcycle inspired by the Ducati V21L, embodying all the prowess and heritage of Ducati’s championship-winning models.
Charging Up The Future
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Source: Ducati