Ducati Working On Automatic Clutch Tech; Likely To Be Used In Racing As Well

Most premium sportbike manufacturers have an automatic clutch tech or something similar which is already on offer aboard its motorcycles. For example, Honda's e-clutch on the CBR650R, BMW's automated shift assistant and Yamaha's Y-AMT tech. Now Ducati is said to be working on a new automatic clutch technology, which will likely have applications in racing as well. Ducati has already filed a bunch of patents with World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), which reveal that the tech is almost ready to be rolled out. We expect Ducati to give us a glimpse of its new automatic clutch tech at EICMA 2025.

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Photo Credit: Ducati WIPO Document

At the heart of Ducati's system is an electro-mechanical actuator working in parallel with a conventional clutch lever, allowing riders to toggle between full manual and automated clutch engagement. The setup is hydraulically operated, a departure from cable-controlled systems, and it is said to offer smooth and consistent performance across various riding scenarios. 

Photo Credit: Ducati WIPO Document

Riders who prefer a hands-off experience can rely entirely on the electronics, which disengage the clutch automatically when coming to a stop and reengage it when the throttle is applied to pull away. However, the clutch lever remains functional, providing full manual override whenever desired. This hybrid approach also acts as an anti-stall safety net-especially useful for newer riders or tricky traffic situations.

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Additionally, the clutch system works in tandem with a load-sensing foot-operated gearshift mechanism. This smart integration allows the system to control clutch engagement during upshifts and downshifts, while the engine management system automatically blips the throttle for seamless rev-matching. One of the highlights of this tech is an integrated launch control mode, which enables riders to twist the throttle and drop the clutch, with the motorcycle's electronics managing power delivery and clutch modulation to optimise acceleration off the line. It will be a useful tool for track-days or spirited riding.

Once homologated, Ducati could also offer this tech on its race bikes in the WSBK and WSS, where the FIM has banned automatic clutches, but that technicality could be side-stepped by the fact that the tech is homologated for road use.