Will Ducati jettison the trellis frame?
Stoner's semi-monocoque MotoGP design the inspiration
Is Ducati planning to call time on its trademark trellis frame, at least for its top-tier sportsbike tackle? It could be, as a recent patent application made by the Italian company in the United States is designed to protect the semi-monocoque carbon-fibre frame found on its 2009 and 2010 MotoGP bikes raced by Casey Stoner and Nicky Hayden.
In the patent, Ducati's identifies a number of limitations of conventional chassis, as well as making several references to roadbikes and production.
It's not clear whether the semi-monocoque design on its roadbikes will be carbon-fibre or aluminium-alloy, but we're tipping - in deference to cost - the latter will be first cab off the rank.
The patent outlines the semi-monocoque design, which is based on a front-mounted monocoque-section and attached to a headstock, which incorporates the airbox. The engine will be used a stressed member.
As Ducati explains, the main benefits of the semi-monocoque frame are improved aerodynamics, lower weight (which could save around 5kg), improved rigidity and enhanced cooling properties.
Although Stoner's first half of 2009 was brought undone by illness and an eventual three-race sabbatical, he was the fastest man on the track at the end of the year, clearly showcasing the potential of Ducati's semi-monocoque MotoGP bike.
Click on the following link to read the Ducati patent.
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