Ducati Futa: Their First E-Road Bike
Introduction To The Ducati Futa
When you think of Ducati, images of luxury motorbikes and an extravagant lifestyle likely come to mind. Known for creating high-end “toys” rather than everyday items, Ducati’s latest venture into the world of e-road bikes might come as a surprise. Named after the mountain pass between Bologna and Florence, the Ducati Futa is the brand’s first e-road bike, offering a unique livery and advanced features.
Ducati’s Foray into E-Bikes
Ducati has previously experimented with electric bicycles with models like the ‘all-mountain’ MIG-S and the enduro-focused TK-01RR. However, the Futa marks their initial step into road cycling. Available in two models, featuring either an FSA K-Force WE or SRAM Rival eTap AXS groupset, the Futa once offered a Campagnolo EPS Limited Edition model that has since sold out.
Designed for All Riders
Ducati aims to cater to riders who want to enjoy cycling with friends without requiring high fitness levels. The new Futa is powered by an FSA HM 1.0 rear hub motor and a 250w battery, offering an 80km range, enhancing its status in the e-road segment. For those looking for more, a second 250w range extender can be purchased separately to enhance your Ducati Futa e-road bike.
Performance and Build
Weighing in at a claimed 12.4kg for a size medium with the FSA group, the Futa is unexpectedly nimble for a road bike. Its large tires and endurance geometry make for a comfortably relaxed ride, focusing on both comfort and performance. The FSA motor excels in performance, although some quirks with the remote control are noted, especially for e-road segment enthusiasts.
Frameset and Aesthetics
Manufactured by Thok and exclusive to Ducati, the Futa frameset is made from ‘e-road UD carbon technology.’ The bike features dropped seatstays for enhanced comfort and aerodynamics. It also boasts full internal routing for a cleaner look and better aero gains, which is a significant advantage in the e-road segment. The black and red palette gives it a brutalist feel, but up close, the finish quality stands out.
Components and Specifications
Ducati collaborated heavily with FSA to create the Futa. All versions of the Ducati Futa e-road bike feature FSA’s HM 1.0 rear hub motor, weighing just 3.98kg. The motor delivers up to 250 watts of power and 42Nm of torque, with pedal-assist capped at 25kph, optimizing both comfort and performance. The bike lacks screen displays, instead opting for a central control point on the top tube and a Garmin remote control dial on the handlebars, suitable for road bike enthusiasts.
The Futa AXS model comes with a SRAM Rival eTap AXS 2×12 speed groupset but retains a significant amount of FSA/Vision componentry. This includes Vision Trimax Carbon aero handlebars, Vision AGX30 wheels with a custom Ducati livery label, and 34mm Vittoria Corsa N.EXT tires.
Sizing and Geometry
Available in four sizes (53cm, 55cm, 57cm, and 59cm), the Futa is designed for endurance riding with a focus on comfort. Despite its endurance geometry, the bike maintains a lively ride feel thanks to its relatively short wheelbase of 997mm.
Real-World Riding Experience
On flat terrain, the Futa handles beautifully and feels almost like a non-e-bike. However, on gentle ascents where speeds hover around the 25kph limit, the bike’s weight becomes noticeable, even for a lightweight e-road bike. The differences in assist modes are clear, providing various levels of boost as needed.
One downside is the placement of the remote control on the inside of the left handlebar bend, making it awkward to use when in the drops. While it’s movable, finding an ideal position remains challenging, even on a road bike designed for improved comfort and performance.
Conclusion On The Ducati Futa e-bike
The Ducati Futa is a commendable first step into e-road cycling for Ducati. Its comfortable geometry and nimble handling make it a solid choice for many riders. However, improvements in remote control placement and more inclusive sizing could elevate it further to compete with other high-end lightweight e-road bikes.
Ducati Futa FAQs
What is the Ducati Futa and how does it stand out in the e-road segment?
The Ducati Futa is a state-of-the-art lightweight e-road bike that embodies the pure Ducati spirit by focusing on design and performance. Introduced as part of their effort to enter the e-road segment, it offers a unique combination of comfort and performance while staying true to Ducati’s legacy in the motorcycle world.
What makes the 2024 Ducati Futa AXS a high-performance e-bike?
The 2024 Ducati Futa AXS features the sram rival etap axs groupset, allowing for smooth and precise gear changes. It includes axs connectivity for easy setup and customization via the dedicated axs app. The bike is designed with advanced carbon fiber materials to ensure it remains lightweight while providing robustness and ensuring high-performance on the road.
What are the standout features of the new Futa?
The standout features of the new Futa include its use of FSA electronics, torque sensors for improved power management, and a full sram groupset. Additionally, the bike offers k-force components and a sophisticated livery with accents in Ducati red, which adds to its aesthetic appeal and aligns with the perfect Ducati style.
How does the range extender work on the Futa?
The range extender is an optional accessory that you can attach to the e-bike to increase its range. This is particularly useful for longer rides where you may need additional battery life. The range extender is designed to be easily attached and seamlessly integrates with the bike’s overall system.
