Ducati launches 848 Nicky Hayden Special Edition at U.S. Grand Prix

Ducati is using this weekend's Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca in California as the backdrop to launch its new 848 Nicky Hayden Special Edition sportbike. The new machine, which will only be available here in the States, features the same 134-horsepower L-twin Evoluzione powerplant, wet-clutch and six-speed gearbox as the rest of the 848 line.

As the first of the 2010 848s introduced, the new Special Edition ushers in a revised LED dash cluster, optional 30mm mirror extensions for those with long-torsos and improved aluminum cam belt tensioner pulleys to go along with its new patriotic livery.

The 848 Nicky Hayden SE will carry a $14,495 sticker price – a reasonable $500 over the asking price for last year's 848 – and will hit Ducati dealerships in America on July 7th after being on display throughout the U.S. GP festivities starting on the 4th. Click past the break for the official press release.

PRESS RELEASE:

DUCATI ANNOUNCES THE 848 NICKY HAYDEN EDITION

MotoGP Fans Celebrate the 4th of July with Debut of Special Edition Motorcycle

Monterey, Calif. (July 3, 2009) – Ducati North America is proud to announce the newest addition to its model range, the 848 Nicky Hayden Special Edition. The special edition 848 will be unveiled tomorrow at the Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca.

In honor of Fourth of July, Ducati is celebrating American World Champion Nicky Hayden with a special USA themed 848. This US -exclusive model will be unveiled at 4pm Saturday July 4 on Ducati Island at the USGP with Nicky Hayden and Ducati CEO Gabriele Del Torchio. It will be on display the remainder of the weekend for fans to view, and available at Ducati dealers July 7th in limited numbers.

The Nicky Hayden Edition is the first of the 2010 model year 848's to arrive in the United States. The distinctive features and 2010 model upgrades on this motorcycle include the American inspired livery, LED dash illumination for superior night visibility, a 30mm mirror extension kit for enhanced vision and aluminum cam belt tensioner pulleys for improved acceleration.

Boasting 134hp at 10,000 rpm, the 848 Nicky Hayden Edition is unmatched in the middleweight class for torque and power values.

The 2010 Ducati 848 Nicky Hayden Edition is priced at $14,495 and available at authorized Ducati dealerships this coming week.