October 19th, 2013

Well I just got back from Brands Hatch after spending the day with Ducati UK at the final round of this years BSB championships. Now as much as I'd like to say that I'm in with Ducati, sadly, I'm not. This was just a perk following the damp Ducati trackday back in September. I have to say, it was very helpful indeed, especially with today's weather.
I got there a little after 09:00 and had a wander around before heading over the Ducati Tent/Gazebo/temporary housing thing. Ducati had brought along several bikes such as the 848 Streetfighter, the Diavel, a Multistrada, the 1199s Panigale, but more importantly, this weekend represented the first UK public of the 899 Panigale. I have to say, it's bloody lovely. 

What was almost as amazing, was the price. At a list price of just over £12,000, if you popped down a deposit of £3200 (if memory serves) you can have a brand new 899 Panigale for £139 a month if you sign up to the TriOptions PCP deal. £139 a month....they are going to sell shed loads of these things. 

The Ducati hospitality suite was lovely. Two walls were covered in emotive black and red images of Ducati's history with the final third wall showing stylish press and PR shots. Lunch was very tasty and any place that distributes unlimited coffee is okay in my book.
As you can see from the photo of the 899 and as I've already mentioned, it was pretty damp on track, which made for some exciting qualifying and racing across the card. Watching the bikes squirm coming onto the start/finish straight under power was a sight to see. 
I really enjoyed the day and would really like to thank Ducati for allowing me to spend the day with them.