Ducati Superquadro Mono is based on the Panigale 1299 engine
Ducati has made a remarkable return to the world of single-cylinder road bikes with the Superquadro Mono, reminiscent of the legendary Supermono 550 from three decades ago. This new engine boasting a 659cc displacement and equipped with a Desmodromic system, is poised to set new standards in the category.
Drawing inspiration from Ducati’s street-legal twin-cylinder Panigale 1299 engine, the Superquadro Mono inherits key components and design elements, pushing the boundaries of performance in the single-cylinder category.
The name Superquadro derives from the ratio between bore and stroke, allowing for exceptional engine speeds typical of racing bikes. With a bore of 116 mm and a mere 62.4 mm stroke, this ratio stands at an extreme 1.86.
The large bore facilitates the use of sizeable valves. This system, borrowed from Ducati’s MotoGP bikes, overcomes the limitations of traditional valve springs, enabling remarkable valve lift laws. Consequently, the Superquadro Mono achieves a peak power of 77.5 HP at 9750 rpm and an impressive 10,250 RPM redline. It produces a maximum torque output of 62.7 Nm at 8000 RPM. In racing configuration with a Termignoni exhaust, this single-cylinder engine can achieve 85 HP at 9500 RPM.
The engine’s piston features a “box in box” design, similar to the pistons found in the Panigale V4 R, enhancing rigidity and reducing friction. The piston pin boasts a Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) coating, similar to that used in the Panigale V4 R for increased durability. The engine’s compression ratio is a high 13.1:1.
Rocker arms in the Desmodromic system are treated with DLC coating to reduce friction and enhance fatigue resistance. The engine’s distribution is managed by a mixed “silent” gear/chain system. Fuel delivery is through a single oval-section throttle body with a 62 mm equivalent diameter, controlled by a ride-by-wire system that offers three Power Modes (High, Medium, Low) to tailor the engine’s response to various riding situations.
The engine’s die-cast crankcases integrate an aluminum water jacket around the cylinder barrel, reducing weight and improving cooling. This design also allows the cylinder head to be directly attached to the crankcase, creating a more compact yet structurally rigid engine. Magnesium alloy is used for the clutch, alternator and head covers to further reduce engine weight while maintaining mechanical strength.
The asymmetrical crankshaft is supported by differentiated main bearings to minimize weight. The engine’s balance is achieved through two balancing countershafts, ensuring a smooth, high-speed operation while maintaining vibration levels comparable to a 90 degree V-twin.
The Superquadro Mono relies on two lobe pumps for efficient lubrication, with one delivering oil to the engine and another for recovery, reducing friction losses. A valve in the blow-by circuit helps maintain the crankshaft compartment under vacuum, reducing resistance and ensuring effective oil recovery in all engine operating conditions.
The transmission features a 6-speed gearbox with racing ratios derived from the Panigale V4 experience. The first gear is intentionally long to optimise use in slow corners. The clutch is in an oil bath with a progressive interlocking hydraulic control, offering reduced lever load and intuitive braking behaviour.
The gearbox can be equipped with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) Up & Down, relying on a magnetic hall effect sensor for enhanced accuracy and reliability.
