I don't think it matters one bit. The Panigale and Scrambler product were long into the pipeline before any Audi take over. And they just finished 2nd and 3rd in MotoGP yesterday. I think people just need to come to terms that Ducati is moving more into the mainstream. If it wants to survive that is. In order to be a viable operation it needs to sell bikes, not listen to people who want a trellis frame, dry clutch or SSSA. The market demands new technology, and last time I checked they were breaking sales records. Once again I have yet to see one brand that did not flourish under the VAG banner. Lamborghini, posting sales records. Bugatti, established itself as THE technological breakthrough with a car that defined and ruled for almost a decade. Bentley selling as hot cakes. So will Ducati benefit? I think you know the answer to that one. Also Chaz Davies is winning races on the Panigale.........
Really? Do you really think that? With the backing of Audi they have managed to invest and develop their business. Without such investment we'd all be riding around on knackered old 916's (that's if you could get the parts) as there'd be no new models. And racing wouldn't be anywhere on the agenda because they'd just be trying to survive.
VAG damaged the desirability of Ducati as a brand for me but have benefited Ducati enormously as a business.
Audi bought Ducati for loads of reasons, one being they wanted some of Ducati's Technology that had been developed DVT engine. I agree it is a progression for the more top tier Brands that they have to move into the main stream, hence broader band models, being based at a wider audience. all the Big German car manufactures have mostly done so, once upon a time walk into a BMW car garage and ask for a discount, and they would laugh at you and tell you to naff off, now they will rip your arm off to get a sale. I just hope Ducati still try and make some bikes that are special and premium, Audi do it, So should Ducati and not lose the range to Mr. Joe Average, I hope the new Ducati Diaval is an addition, if trying to make it a more cruiser type and not a replacement.
But please do explain this with logical arguments. I am really interested in why it affects the desirability.
I thought Audi bought Ducati, not VAG, it is not like Audis are not desirable, considering how many cars they have sold over the last 5 years at all levels
Audi is part of the VAG group, as are VW, Porsche, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Skoda, Seat etc. etc.
I believe Lamborghini actually own Ducati in the real scheme of things not Audi or VAG, not that it makes much difference in reality. If it wasn't for Scrambler sales i understood Ducati sales would actually be down on last years figures.
Desirable Is the word I always think of when I think of Ducati.. I remember seeing my first. 916 on the road.. It instantly grabbed me and has yet to let go.. If I wanted to be like 13 million others each year I'd buy a Honda.. That's not for me! I realise Ducati have to move on to survive.. But I certainly hope they build short runs of at least some of the range and never steer away from the v twin / v4..
