Ducati has released details of its new variable valve system called Desmodromic Variable Timing (DVT), which will feature in a new generation of Testastretta engines.
The Italian motorcycle manufacturer claims that its new engine is the first in the world with variable timing on both the inlet and exhaust camshafts, creating a new technological platform for future applications.
Giulio Malagoli, head of product marketing for Ducati, explained that the company wanted to address the paradox of enhancing the engine’s performance and power while also making it run more smoothly.
“If you want more power you need a greater valve overlap. If you want it to run smoothly at low speed regimes you have to reduce that overlap,” he said. But the Testastretta DVT introduces double continuous variable cam phasing, meaning that there is no longer only one valve overlap but countless variations.
“Thanks to a sophisticated system of electronic sensors, the control unit compares the camshaft position with that of the driveshaft to determine the ideal timing. Within just hundredths of a second, a hydraulic device changes the timing and sets the best overlap according to the specific running conditions,” Malagoli said.
According to Ducati, the technology results in total adaptability to the riding conditions and how the motorcyclist wants to ride, enhancing riding pleasure and boosting performance without compromise.
The Euro 4 compliant Testastretta DVT engine is expected to be fitted to the new Multistrada 1200 which is due to be launched in early November.
Image: miqu77/Shutterstock.com
