Ducati UK has announced across the range price increases in response to currency pressures. basically, right now the Pound is taking a real kicking against the Euro, so expect similar moves from all European manufacturers over the next few months. However, to support the UK motorcycle consumer, Ducati UK will offer an unprecedented zero % finance deal across the range. The hyperbole is almost justified, for although there have been 0% deals on Ducatis before (well, at least once) it is still rare enough to be something truly remarkable. And actually rather welcome in the current climate as well.

The range topping 1198 is available from £182.17 per month whilst the smaller but beautifully formed (and some say sweeter mannered) 848 is a steal from as little as £147.44 per month. The new Monster 1100 (only released at the end of 2008) also qualifies for this exceptional offer with payments from £117.65 for the Monster 1100 to £87.72 for the smaller 696. These two Monsters really are an astonishing deal as they are by all accounts spectacularly good bikes and already offered excellent value in a market segment where such things actually matter.

The immensely entertaining but, as the editor can testify, a trifle unforgiving Hypermotard range offers a direct link to the adrenal gland and almost sure-fire guaranteed wide eyed gibbering for monthly payments from £123.21 while the beautiful Sport Classic range and ugly but brilliantly capable Multistrada (review here) also qualify for this 0% finance deal.

The full range of the strongest ever line up to emerge from the Bologna factory now has cheaper service costs and linked with a 0% finance scheme there has never been a better opportunity to buy a Ducati. Ducati say there's never been a better reason but I can't agree. Ducati's are bought with the heart, not the head. This deal just gives the head less to argue about. But style, design and passion are the best reasons to buy a Ducati.

All Ducati models except for the Streetfighter range, 1098R, 1098R Troy Bayliss and Desmosedici RR qualify for this finance offer over 24 months or 36 months. Why are these excluded? I'd guess that it's because the Desmosedici is pretty well sold out and the others are in that price range where finance isn't really important. I mean, if you're going to spend over £20k on a motorbike, are you likely to be more tempted by interest free finance? Thought not...

Price increases and the finance offer come into effect from today, 5th March 2009 with the finance package ending 30th April 2009.

There are 2 schemes, 24 monthly payments with a 30% deposit and 36 monthly payments with a 50% deposit.

Examples of this finance package can be obtained from an authorised Ducati dealership, details of which can be found at www.ducatiuk.com. 

For further information contact your local dealer or call 0870 1222 996.

I wouldn't hang about if I were you. If your heart is saying yes, go check it out before they change their minds!

SB