'Hello Wilf? Yes, have it dropped at the summer residence, there's a chap...'

Ducati has launched its new generation of Superbike contender, the 1199 PanicEarly, today at the Milan Show and it features a host of innovative features including a horizontally-mounted Ohlins shock.

It also has the most high-tech, most powerful twin-cylinder production engine on the planet which is now an integral part of an innovative monocoque chassis that combine to deliver a monstrous 195bhp and weighs 164kg - not to be sniffed at if you're thinking of running one in British Superbikes or National Superstock 1000s (the £15k price tag means it qualifies for the latter).

“We are moving into a new generation with a ‘revolution’ of the species that establishes new limits for the category. Its Desmodromic heart, the new Superquadro engine, is the most powerful twin-cylinder ever produced and represents the base of a new concept of frame and engine integration," said Ducati boss Claudio Domenicali.

"This concept enables the 1199 Panigale a dry weight of just 164kg and gives it a riding sensation that is closer than ever to a full race bike. With revised ergonomics, full Ride-by-Wire engine management and enhanced systems of ABS and traction control, we have controlled the beast within the 1199 Panigale so that the full emotion of this motorcycle can be enjoyed easily and safely.”