Day 6 - Tues 3rd Oct, 2017 - Bologna: Ducati & Lamborghini

Day 6 - Tues 3rd  Oct, 2017 - Bologna: Ducati & Lamborghini

My plan to cycle the 8km to the Ducati Factory was much easier then expected, as the city is flats, and has lots of heavy utilized cyclepaths.

Fortunately,  I had taken the Ducati Factory Tour in 2008, as it closed for a short recess. Using my Ducati Owners Card,  I purchased a discounted museum pass. The museum had been changed and I was pleasantly surprised to see mention of the Australian riders (Corser, Bayliss and Stoner) who had contributed to their racing success. It was definitely worth the visit and I enjoyed it the second time as much as 2008.

The cycle to Lamborghini in the direction of Modena was about 30km and although busy, it was easy riding.

I arrived with spare time to visit the museum first. It had some special historic cars, starting with the second prototype of the 1966 Bertone body designed Miura in metallic white. The first was destroyed in fire. Before the factory tour, I met an Aussie couple who were interested in my vintage bicycle and on the same 3:00 tour.

Whilst viewing the museum, I talked to the attendant about the Contach on show. This is Contach#1 from 1973- it was originally red then painted green for next motorshow as there was only one  car.

The Lamborghini assembly plant tour was  excellent, exceeding  expectations. The museum attendant with whom I had spoken, turned out to be our factory tour guide and was very knowledgeable and passionate. She had previously worked at Ferrari.

It is common for Lamborghini customers go to visit the factory to place their order. One the tour we were told of one couple arrived and started out Blue exterior and black interior. After passionate discussion between the couple, the car was ordered Pink/Yellow. The workers can’t wait till it’s build!

Japan is the 2nd largest market after USA. Also most Japanese  orders are Left hand drive to be different and to increase resale value.

Dinner was at a Clavature, a restaurant in the tourist area. I enjoyed pasta and chicken main as I had skipped lunch. Still largely depending on Maps.me, I made it back to accommodation with 4% battery left- lesson to self: always carry a map and learn to use it!

Cycling today was 60km round trip. The Bologna cycle paths are excellent and drivers quite respectful of cyclist.

Tomorrow,  I plan to cycle to Imola town about 40km away. There is practice for the weekend’s Ferrari Challenge Race. There is also a Senna memorial to remember his tragic accident in 1994.