In a groundbreaking move, Ducati is diving headfirst into the world of motocross. 

After two years of relentless development, Ducati is gearing up to make its debut in the Italian Motocross Championship next season, raising the stakes in the competitive off-road motorcycling arena.

Ducati’s decision to enter motocross marks a significant milestone for the company, echoing its unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation. 

The strategy underscores the same principle that has set Ducati apart in the motorcycle industry for decades – a philosophy that begins with racing and culminates in the creation of high-performance production models that bring joy to enthusiasts worldwide.

This ambitious venture heralds a multi-year project that will see the birth of a comprehensive range of off-road engines and motorcycles. 

These models will come together under the banner of Ducati, gradually expanding to cover a family of knobby-tired motorcycles. It all starts with motocross.

At the heart of Ducati’s foray into off-road is a relentless pursuit of lightweight design, top-of-the-line components, and engines known for their broad power delivery curves. Ducati’s adoption of the Desmodromic system, a technology renowned in the racing world, elevates the performance of its off-road machines.

This system, also employed in Ducati’s high-performance production bikes, including MotoGP racers, sets Ducati apart as the only company globally using the same valve return system for both racing prototypes and production models.

The decision to venture into the specialized off-road sector signifies a pivotal strategic move for Ducati, made possible by its remarkable achievements in recent years. Ducati’s entry into motocross cements its commitment to exploring uncharted territory.

The move also paves the way for a new generation of young motorcyclists to experience the allure of the Borgo Panigale brand and join the thriving community of Ducatisti.

In September 2023, BMW left the adventure riding community awestruck with the debut of the thoroughly revamped R 1300 GS, signaling a long-awaited evolution of their flagship model. Now, the spotlight shifts to Touratech, the renowned German purveyor of adventure riding accessories, who has wasted no time in tailoring a suite of offerings to complement the impressive capabilities of the new GS.

Touratech’s name has become synonymous with enhancing the touring and off-road prowess of adventure motorcycles, and their latest lineup for the BMW R 1300 GS solidifies this reputation. Their comprehensive range of accessories is designed to cater to both globetrotting touring enthusiasts and avid off-road adventurers.

Protecting the Heart of the Beast

First in line, the Sport engine crash bar takes the stage, designed to shield the brand-new 1300 Boxer engine in the unfortunate event of a tip-over or a slide. It boasts the remarkable ability to absorb the brunt of impact and sliding forces while ensuring that the bike maintains the agility necessary to tackle corners with enthusiasm.

Meanwhile, the Classic engine guard steps up to the plate, offering protection not just for the engine but also for the fairings, bodywork, and radiator. Additionally, riders have the option to add a reinforcement strut for an extra layer of fortification.

Enhancing Off-Road Capabilities

For those looking to maximize their R 1300 GS’s off-road performance, Touratech has introduced the Expedition engine guard. This accessory is not a newcomer to the scene; it has already been tried and tested over millions of kilometers on previous BMW models and has now been meticulously optimized for the R 1300 GS. Constructed from four-millimeter thick aluminum sheet, this guard ensures that even the most unforgiving terrain won’t jeopardise the engine’s underbelly.

Luggage Solutions for Adventurers

When it comes to luggage solutions, Touratech doesn’t disappoint. The brand offers a stainless steel pannier rack, a notable absence in the BMW’s standard equipment list. The rack incorporates Touratech’s patented connecting elements, 3D lugs for added strength and weight reduction, all while maintaining the bike’s svelte profile. It’s fully compatible with a selection of panniers, including Touratech’s very own aluminum panniers, which come in various sizes and capacities, as well as the Zega top case and luggage rack.

Availability and Expansion

All the Touratech accessories tailored for the new BMW R 1300 GS are now available through the brand’s official website. However, Touratech assures enthusiasts that their product catalog for the new GS will continue to expand to meet the evolving needs of adventure riders. For precise pricing information, prospective buyers are encouraged to visit Touratech’s official website, as pricing may vary according to their respective regions.

As the adventure motorcycling world embraces the new BMW R 1300 GS, Touratech stands ready to empower riders with a range of carefully crafted accessories designed to take their two-wheeled adventures to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned globe-trotter or a rugged off-road enthusiast, Touratech’s offerings provide the means to unlock the full potential of this iconic ADV machine.