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The NCR origin is similar to other projects that begin with an engine, inside a workshop in Borgo Panigale, Italy, on the outskirts of Bologna, the capital of motorcycling. In that garage, near Ducati´s main factory, is where engineers Giorgio Nepoti, Rino Caracchi and Luigi Rizzi began creating—in 1968—racing motorcycles from models produced by the Ducati company. The venture was christened with the initials of their last names: NCR.
Ducati 900NCR
NCR Mike Hailwood TT
NCR Mike Hailwood TT
NCR Corse 1200
NCR Corse 1200
The first is the NCR Leggera 1200, whose top of the range—the NCR Corse 1200— can command upwards of US$ 100,000. And deservingly so, given its benefits. Mounted on the basis of a Ducati Hypermotard from the previous generation, the NCR Leggera 1200 ranks as one of the lightest motorcycles in the world at less than 300 pounds. Together with the 132 hp delivered by its Ducati 1100 engine of 1,160 cc, it offers a power/weight ratio close to 1.
NCR M16
NCR M16
But NCR’s crown jewel is undoubtedly the Millona 16 (or NCR M16), which has been on the market for several years, and without which it is impossible to understand what the NCR brand means today. The fabled bike boasts 200 hp and weighs less than 330 pounds, lighter even than a MotoGP. Outstanding on any race, this motorcycle whose exclusivity is also felt in the price—which can go up to US$ 160,000—is among the three most expensive production models of the world. ■
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