Swedish suspension specialist Ohlins has disclosed a rear‑shock modification Ducati has been fitting on its Desmosedici for roughly 18 months. Internally named the Stroke Limiting Device‑76, the component reduces the rear shock’s travel via an adjustable hydraulic buffer, enabling riders to engage the bike’s rear ride‑height device in corners where full suspension travel previously caused bottom‑outs.
Ohlins MotoGP manager Jonas Torstensson said the solution emerged from Ducati’s request to “restrict the stroke” rather than simply block compression. The system uses a series of hydraulic pistons to halve available travel, letting the rider activate the ride‑height device without the belly‑pan striking the ground or the rear tyre hitting the seat‑unit subframe. Ducati rider Pecco Bagnaia praised the change, noting a distinct feel when the device is on and describing the combination as a “masterpiece” that gives a clear advantage.
The device remains exclusive to Ducati, though other teams are aware of its existence. With MotoGP set to ban ride‑height devices at the end of 2026, Ohlins expects the Stroke Limiting Device‑76 to be prohibited soon, and predicts few manufacturers will pursue similarly radical shock alterations amid upcoming regulation changes.
