Ducati motorcycles have their origins in Italy. The company was founded in 1926 by three brothers, Adriano, Bruno, and Marcello Ducati, in the city of Bologna. Initially, Ducati was established as a manufacturer of electronic components and specialized in the production of radio equipment.
During World War II, Ducati's factory was heavily bombed, leading the company to shift its focus and diversify its production. In the immediate post-war period, Ducati began producing motorized bicycles, which eventually evolved into motorcycles. The first motorcycle produced by Ducati was the Cucciolo, a small 48cc four-stroke engine bike introduced in 1946.
Ducati continued to innovate and refine their motorcycles over the years. In the 1950s, they expanded their range to include larger displacement models and began achieving success in motorcycle racing. Ducati's racing victories, particularly in the realm of Superbike racing, have played a significant role in establishing the brand's reputation for high-performance motorcycles.
In 1985, Ducati faced financial difficulties, and the company was acquired by the Cagiva Group, an Italian motorcycle manufacturer. Under Cagiva's ownership, Ducati underwent a revitalization and experienced a resurgence in popularity and sales. The brand gained recognition for its iconic and distinctive designs, advanced engineering, and racing success.
In subsequent years, Ducati went through various ownership changes. In 1996, the Texas Pacific Group (TPG) acquired Ducati from Cagiva. Then, in 2012, Ducati became a part of the Volkswagen Group (now known as Volkswagen AG) when it was purchased by Audi, a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG.
Today, Ducati is recognized as one of the leading manufacturers of premium motorcycles worldwide, known for their combination of performance, design, and Italian craftsmanship. The brand continues to produce a wide range of motorcycles, including sport bikes, naked bikes, adventure bikes, and more, catering to different riders' preferences and riding styles.