Classic test 1994 DUCATI 916 The bike that changed EVERYTHING

Keep the throttle open. My brain said do it, but I couldn’t quite bring myself to obey. Surely the final fast section of Misano’s long, steadily unwinding left-hand bend – back in the days before they reversed its direction – must be possible flat out on a bike with as much grip, handling ability and ground clearance as the 916?

I kept telling myself that, on the launch back in 1994; but holding the Ducati’s throttle wide open, when a good drive out of the previous turn sent the next one rushing up at fearsome speed, was not easy. Every lap, the temptation to back off just a fraction was irresistible.

Until finally I managed it. Positioned on