Tradition and development: a look at Ducati’s two-cylinder engines
The 90° V2 engine is a traditional engine architecture at Ducati, which has powered a large number of legendary models over the years. From the Pantah engine of the 1970s to the Superquadro, the V2 has always stood for a combination of performance and unique character. The introduction of the new V2 once again confirms Ducati’s commitment to the continuous development of its engine technology. In the last seven years, Ducati has already launched four completely new engines, including the Desmosedici Stradale, the Superquadro Mono and the V4 Granturismo.
The new V2 engine is homologated in accordance with the Euro 5+ standard and offers a balanced combination of power and weight savings. Compared to the Superquadro 955, the weight has been reduced by 9.4 kg, and the new V2 also weighs significantly less than other engines such as the Testastretta Evoluzione or the Desmodue. With a generous power output and maintenance intervals of 30,000 km for the valve clearance check, the engine positions itself as a durable and economical choice.
Compact design for a wide range of applications
The 90° arrangement of the cylinders results in a natural balance of primary forces without the need for additional balancer shafts. The design promotes even weight distribution by tilting the cylinders backwards by 20°. This compact design gives Ducati greater flexibility when integrating the engine into different models in the product range.
Performance data: Two versions for different requirements
Ducati offers the new V2 engine in two versions: The first version achieves an output of 120 hp (88 kW) at 10,750 rpm and delivers a maximum torque of 93.3 Nm at 8,250 rpm. With a racing exhaust, the output increases to 126 hp (92 kW) with a torque of 98 Nm. The second variant is designed for 115 hp (85 kW) and has a more powerful generator as well as reinforced components such as the connecting rod and flywheel. These features are intended to enable the engine to develop power more smoothly at low engine speeds.
A further adjustment in the 115 hp version are shorter gear ratios in the first two gears, which are intended to support starting on steep slopes or when fully loaded.
Advanced technology: IVT and DLC for greater efficiency
The V2 engine is equipped with the IVT system (Intake Variable Timing), which enables continuous adjustment of the intake valve timing at an angle of 52°. This optimizes the torque curve across the entire engine speed range, which should enable a smooth and fast throttle response. The rocker arms of the intake valves have a DLC coating to reduce friction and increase durability, while the hollow valve stems ensure a lower weight.
Another technical detail is the water-oil heat exchanger integrated into the V of the cylinders, which does away with the need for an additional oil cooler. This contributes to the compactness of the engine and reduces the overall weight. There is also a knock sensor, which ensures reliable performance even when high-octane fuel is not available.
Increased efficiency thanks to modern injection and fuel management
The mixture is prepared via a throttle valve with a diameter of 52 mm and a ride-by-wire system that offers four different power modes. These modes adapt the power output to different riding situations and areas of use. An intake bypass improves the air-fuel mixture, resulting in more efficient combustion, lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions.
Ease of maintenance and compact design
Ducati attaches great importance to ease of maintenance with the new V2: oil changes are required every 15,000 km and the valve clearance is only checked after 30,000 km. The aluminum cylinder liners are designed so that they can be anchored directly in the crankcase, which improves both the structural strength of the engine and its compactness.
Technical data of the new Ducati V2 engine at a glance:
- Displacement: 890 cc, 90° V2
- Weight: 54.4 kg
- Distribution: Chain transmission with double overhead camshaft, IVT (variable valve timing on intake), 4 valves per cylinder
- Intake valves: Hollow valve stems, 38.2 mm
- Exhaust valves: 30.5 mm
- Bore x stroke: 96 x 61.5 mm
- Compression ratio: 13.1:1
- Maximum power: 120 hp (118 hp, 88 kW) at 10,750 rpm, with racing exhaust 126 hp (124 hp, 92 kW)
- Maximum torque: 93.3 Nm at 8,250 rpm, 98 Nm with racing exhaust
- Clutch: Multi-disc oil bath clutch with servo and anti-hopping function
- Gearbox: 6-speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) 2.0
- Emission standard: Euro 5+
- CO2 emissions: 120 g/km (WMTC)
The first Ducati models with the new V2 engine will be presented at the Ducati World Première on November 5 at 18:00.
