New 899 Panigale to compete in Ducati TriOptions Cup

THE new 899 Panigale will compete in the Ducati TroOptions Cup next year, the Italian manufacturer has announced.

The mini Panigale will run alongside the 848 Evo in the MCE British Superbike series. 

The 899 Panigale features a new “Superquadro” engine, making a claimed 148hp, and a full Ducati electronics package including quick shift, traction control and ABS. It’s due to go on sale in the UK in November.

Entrants to the TriOptions Cup will get £1000 off the £12,495 price. 

It’s understood Ducati is likely to add an ‘S’ version of the 899 to its range, with electronically adjustable suspension.

A release from the firm said: “Ducati UK, together with MSVR, have confirmed a two-year outline deal to ensure that the iconic Ducati sound will remain part of the MCE British Superbike Championship. For 2014, the Ducati TriOptions Cup will feature the all-new Ducati Superbike 899 Panigale alongside the existing 848 Evo model in a new format for the series...

“For 2014 the series registration fee is reduced to £750 which includes a Ducati Corse paddock clothing pack, access to the exclusive Ducati UK hospitality unit and other benefits to be confirmed. Neil Hodgson, World and British Superbike champion, will continue his role as series ambassador to help promote the series and support the riders with his racing expertise and experience…

"The 2014 Ducati TriOptions Cup will again be contested with two point scoring races over eight MCE British Superbike Championship events, including the TT Circuit Assen. The full 2014 Ducati TriOptions Cup calendar and full regulations will be announced in due course.

“The series will feature an overall winner and an 848 class winner for riders who will continue to run the current model.

“The overall winner of the 2014 Ducati TriOptions Cup will receive a £5,000 cash prize, a Ducati Corse riding suit and free entry either to the 2015 series or the National Superstock 1000 Championship (providing they will ride a Ducati). The 848 class winner will receive a £2,500 cash prize plus riding suit.”

Ducati UK Managing Director Tim Maccabee said: “As we enter our fourth year as part of the British Superbikes series, it’s great to be able to announce that we will feature the new Supermid Panigale 899, keeping the series at the cutting edge of sports bike technology. I can’t wait for the new season to start!”