Shell 'fuel' Ducati's dream.

Ducati will continue to build on the achievements made over the last four years with Shell Advance motorcycle oils as it mounts a new challenge on the World Superbike crown.

"Ducati Corse has a long-standing and consolidated partnership with Shell," stated Filippo Preziosi, Ducati Corse technical director. "The precious support, constructive collaboration and advanced research carried out by Shell's laboratories has enabled us to obtain significant results. We are working to realise a dream, accumulating experience and learning day after day."

Shell Advance's work with Ducati in pre-season has focused on the development of a suitable synthetic base oil. The basis of this has come from the experience gained last season from the 998R, but tailored to suit the 999's individual requirements.

Led by Dr Wolfgang Warnecke, the Shell Advance team comprises of four dedicated full-time engineers and scientists who are committed to developing and providing lubricants and fuels which constantly improve the performance of the 999's highly tuned desmodromic engine.

Since the beginning of the partnership between Shell Advance and Ducati, the two have developed very close links at every level. One key member of the team is Shell Advance's Michael Knaak, who oversees the development of race oils and their delivery to the Ducati team for testing and racing.

"We have been allowed to work very closely with the Ducati team over the last four years, and in 2002 we were able to play a part in the development in this year's bike. We have an entirely open partnership with Ducati - we listen to their specific engine oil and fuel requirements and develop a suitable one, and they are always willing to listen to our opinion on a variety of technical and design matters," said Knaak,

"There are no secrets between us, and this leads to a very successful and integrated technical partnership. Ducati wants to realise the full potential of the bike and engine, and we have to develop an oil to reflect this - one with a high power output that does not compromise reliability, reducing the risk of mechanical failure," he added.

Ducati now develop, test and sell all their bikes with Shell Advance products.