 2008 DUCATI 1098 Superbike Expierence Test Ride and Perspectives by John M. Rossi, VivaDUCATI Dates: June 2008 Locations: MA / NH / NY Acknowledgements: Eastern Cycle Ducati, Penguin Road Racing School, Robs Dyno Service, and Vanson Leathers. Photos: Mark Killam, Roadpics.com, Killamphotography.com, Gido Braase, Eastern Cycle, John M. Rossi - VivaDUCATI, and Justin Mosca Photography. It was Jimmy Hendrix who coined the phrase . . . “are you experienced? But, it may be the DUCATI 1098 that is actually the real test one must ask themselves . . . “am I experienced enough?”
The DUCATI 1098 is not an entry level motorcycle for the inexperienced or faint of heart. This is a street legal race machine combining the know—how and technology of World Superbike and MotoGP to deliver the most powerful twin manufactured today. The basic 1098 model as tested delivered 136 horse power at the rear wheel, weighed less than 400 lbs completely stock and right out of the box. That is nothing short of amazing for a production motorcycle.
 While everything about this motorcycle is precise and predictable in its handling, know that the sequence of events will pass you by at a blisteringly fast pace and in second gear you can exceed legal limits in most states. Our top speed recorded was 166 MPH. Now if those stats don’t get your attention, the a $15,999 K price tag will.
How is it that DUCATI has come so far to advance the L-twin motorcycle that performs so stunningly well? The answer has 3-parts. The first and most important one is racing - it is the all important research and development environment. In motor-sport, this is where innovation happens, materials are tested under the most grueling conditions, results measured in 10ths of seconds, and where winning is everything. Track-side decisions are made without board approval or consumer response surveys. The boundaries of engineering (as well as human/rider skill) is pushed relentlessly with each lap. Modifications, re-tooling, and experimentation can occur from race to race and in real-time. What better learning laboratory is there when performance, speed, and streamlined efficiency is at the core of a company’s product line such as DUCATI.
Part 2 of the answer is marketing. Ducati has risen and retooled itself as the race-pedigree motorcycle company. The entire model line is aggressive if not in the pure performance their machines deliver, then at least in their aesthetic appearance. The 4600-word test of the DUCATI 1098 Suprbike, complete with dyno test results, technical specifications, and photos awaits you. Login to gain full access to VivaDUCATI.com tests, articles, events, and exclusive V.I.P. travel to world class events. We welcome you to Login and be part of VivaDUCATI.com.
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