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Before the Ducati's key cards existed, actually coming into being only in 2007, one little red key was what would be given with most of Ducati models - the same little red key that triggered much fear amongst Ducati owners.

Indeed, black keys are those used to start the motorcycle but red keys, each specifically designed for one motorcycle, are a whole other story. Ducati motorcycles are amazing to look at, their roar exciting to listen to and their power thrilling to feel but for such captivating vehicles, it is hard to accept the fact that they are virtually nothing without their tiny little red key.

The red key serves to program the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) on which the motorcycle's life is based. The owner can ride the bike with the black key but if adjustments on the vehicle are needed or wanted, the bike will not be able to run again without its red key. The latter, as the vehicle's code key, is needed to make the bike work again after a replacement or modification by reprogramming these electronically. The red key is also equipped with a special anti-theft alert which allows it to send a signal to the motorcycle's ECU, disabling operation.

The core of the problem is that this red key is not replaceable. As it is an original equipment manufacturer product (OEM), it cannot be reproduced if it is lost or stolen. The only way to replace it would be to ask the manufacturing plant itself and getting a new red key would also mean getting a completely new electronic system, i.e. a new ECU, a new gauge cluster and a new ignition system - simply put, it is a nightmare, and a few thousand pounds expensive one, which explains why so many owners dread the idea of losing the key.

Selling a Ducati without its red key is like selling half of a Ducati, unless of course sellers are highly flexible with prices. Considering how Ducatis are products very high in quality, efficiency and value, this little detail did put off many owners when they found out how enormous its function was!

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