Ducati are known for high performance motorcycles with large capacity four-stroke, 90-degree v-twin engines featuring a desmodromic valve design.
Desmodromic valves are those which are positively closed by a leverage system, rather than relying on the more conventional springs to close the valves.
The chief designer of Ducati motorcycles was the late Fabio Taglioni (1920-2001).
The company has enjoyed nine World Superbike championships in recent years.
See also: List of Italian companies