Ducati are known for high performance motorcycles with large capacity four-stroke 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.