Motorcycle specifications Ducati 848 2009 3/4 Superbike

it was almost certain that the 1098 would not be able to defend Ducati's new sporty profile for long on its own. A year after presenting the superb Italian Superbike, the Bologna factory shelved the 749 and launched the 848. This perfect copy of the 1098 differs only in the cubic capacity of its twin and some different peripherals. But the face remains the same, and still makes us drool.

with 250 cm3 less cubic capacity, the twin inevitably produces less power than its Superbike big brother. But that doesn't mean it's a 1098 on the cheap, far from it. The 848 benefits from all the experience and technology developed for its predecessor. It boasts 134 hp and a minimum weight of 168 kg. This is truly remarkable. Consider that Ducati's first liquid-cooled, 4-valve-per-cylinder twin, the 851, was 3 cm3 larger and 32 hp lighter. And compared to its predecessor, the 749, the 848 is 30% more powerful. A healthy dose of torque, almost 10 mkg, further enhances the big twin's thrust.

even if this engine doesn't correspond to any categorycategory (for the time being), it still benefits from the careful attention of the Bologna engine-makers. closely derived from the 1098 block, it too is fed by elliptical intake ducts, the angle between the valves is the same (their diameter is 39.5 mm at the intake and 32 mm at the exhaust), magnesium cylinder head covers like those on the 1098 R, and the radiator and exhausts use the same technology as those on the 1098.

hardcore Ducatists will be in for a shock when they fire up the engine. The clutch won't make a sound: it's now oil-bath technology. Sacrilege! A Ducat sports bike has always had a dry clutch. Well, not any more, especially when it saves 1.6 kg. The brand's hunt for weight savings also extends to its engine crankcases. Die-casting technology saves 3 kg in this area.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos