Cucciolo

The first step that Ducati took in the motorcycle sector and the first step towards the company’s renaissance.

Post-war Italy sought a fresh start and one of the most urgent needs was mobility. Transportation was essential in order to further the economic recovery of the nation after years of conflict.

The reconstruction of the Borgo Panigale factory following the bombings of October 1944 represented an opportunity that Ducati exploited in order to relaunch its activities.

The electro-technical department was partly converted to operate in a new sector and, in 1946, the first auxiliary engine for bicycles was developed.

Displacement
48 cc
Maximum power
1.5 hp at 5500 rpm
Maximum speed
50 km/h
Dry weight
Not available

Displacement
48 cc
Maximum power
1.5 hp at 5500 rpm
Maximum speed
50 km/h
Dry weight
Not available

The Cucciolo was not only able to transform any bicycle, injecting power and agility, but it also allowed Ducati to transform as a company and play a small role in Italy’s post-war recovery.

In addition, the Cucciolo was easy to export, and it was not long before it became a success story on international markets. In a black and white photograph, the Cucciolo is seen traveling the streets of New York with the Chrysler Building in the background.

Check out all the models of the era

The road and race bikes that have made Ducati history over the years.

Discover it at the Ducati Museum

Past and future, challenges and successes, vision and determination: the Ducati Museum is a journey through the legendary 90-year history of the Company, renowned across the world for its style, performance and the search for perfection.

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