Ducati to return to Pikes Peak with new Multistrada

Ducati is all set to make a return to the famous Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2018. While Ducati has traditionally ruled the heavyweight class, it was stripped of its reigning status by KTM, last year. The bike maker will be making an attempt to reclaim the record at this year's event. To ensure that it has a good chance of doing this, it has called upon the skillful services of Carlin Dunne and Codie Vahsholtz.

Dunne was the first rider to complete the course in under-10min and is a former record-holder at the event; Vahsholtz is the reigning middleweight record-holder. Both riders will be astride the new Multistrada 1260 Pikes Peak Edition. Both Dunne and Vahsholtz will face stiff competition this year, as they strive to recapture Ducati's lost record. Professional AMA Superbike racer Chris Fillmore took the outright two-wheeler record, last year, with a run of 9:49.625 aboard a KTM 1290 Super Duke R.

The Pikes Peak Edition of the motorcycle features the new Euro-IV-compliant 1,262cc engine seen across the Multistrada 1260 range, putting out 158hp at 9,500rpm and 129.5Nm of torque at 7,500rpm. Additional features over the standard model include Ohlins suspension at both ends, a Termignoni exhaust system, a bi-directional quickshifter, cornering ABS and various carbon-fibre bits (the windscreen, front mud guard and air intake covers).

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is a time-trial event held annually in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. The course is a 20km stretch of public roads featuring 156 turns and climbing 4,720ft from start to finish. It ends at an altitude of 14,110ft, which is what gives the course its alternate name, 'The Race to the Clouds'.

With multiple manufacturers sending factory-supported efforts to the iconic event this year, the event’s popularity is on a certain ascend. The race will take place on Sunday, June 24, 2018 – stay tuned!