2011 Ducati 1198 Review

Intro

The 2011 Ducati 1198 is one of the best-performing sport bikes on the market. The bike is available in two trims. First, there is the base 1198 trim, and there is also the higher-level 1198 SP trim. The 2011 Ducati 1198 is designed specifically with performance in mind, and Ducati has loaded the bike with a number of features designed to maximize highway and racetrack driving. The bike comes at a steep price tag, although Ducati justifies the price through a powerful engine. Still, prospective buyers should be aware that this is not a bike that is designed for everyday use. It should be treated as a bike for performance outings only. Adding to the expense is that the 2011 Ducati 1198 is, like all performance sport bikes, especially expensive to maintain. The bike should be considered for those looking for elite levels of performance, as this is the bike’s true area of strength. In particular, the 170- horsepower engine is among the most powerful in its (or any other) category. The bike also offers a remarkable 97 lb-ft of torque. The fuel capacity is 4.10 gallons, although fuel economy estimates have not been released.

The 2011 Ducati 1198 is available in red, racing black, or graphite gray colors. The appearance is aerodynamic, with a streamlined look that emphasizes performance over comfort. At first glance, there is no doubting that the bike was designed for the track, and it is guaranteed to attract attention. In fact, drivers may find that the bike is a bit too bold to drive outside of the race track. Even if it was not designed with luxurious comfort in mind, the bike is still handsomely appointed, highlighted by an LED lighting display.

Ducati has equipped the bike with Ducati Traction Control (DTC), which ensures stable performance even at top speeds. The Traction Control makes sure that the front and rear wheel speeds are appropriate and adjusts the engine accordingly if traction is lost. Another useful feature is the Ducati Data Analysis, which will be appreciated by those who engage in lots of track driving. The Data Analysis allows drivers to monitor their track performance and stores data from past rides. Another useful feature is the Ducati Quick Shift, which allows for the throttle to stay open while shifting. This feature is unlikely to make a perceptible difference for most drivers, but it does improve performance times on the racetrack. As might be expected with such an aerodynamic bike, the 2011 Ducati 1198 does not have any cargo or storage capacity. The lack of storage space has the benefit of not weighing the bike down. At the same time drivers will have to be mindful of this should they engage in long trips off the racetrack.

New For 2011

  • The 2011 Ducati 1198 is new for the 2011 model year.

2011 Ducati 1198 Specs

  • Model: 2011 Ducati 1198
  • Engine Type: 849.4cc, two-cylinder
  • Bore and Stroke: 4.1 inches and 2.7 inches
  • Compression ratio: 12.7:1
  • Valve Train: DOHC configuration
  • Induction: N/A
  • Ignition: Electric
  • Transmission: Six-speed manual transmission
  • Final Drive: N/A
  • Fuel Capacity: 4.1 gallon
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: N/A
  • Brakes (Front): Dual hydraulic, 13.0-inch disc
  • Brakes (Rear): Hydraulic, 9.7-inch disc
  • Suspension (Front): Inverted fork
  • Suspension (Rear): Single sided swing arm
  • Wheelbase: 56.3 inches
  • Rake: 24.5 degrees
  • Trail: N/A
  • Seat Height: 32.7 inches
  • Curb Weight: 370.4 pounds
  • Tires (Front): 120/70-17
  • Tires (Rear): 180/55-17

Accessories

  • Carbon bottom chain guard
  • Carbon seat tail guard
  • Carbon rear mudguard
  • Large plexiglass windshield
  • Aluminum front stand
  • Ducati performance cover
  • Forged magnesium aluminum rims

Key Competitors For The 2011 Ducati 1198

  • Honda CBR 600RR
  • Suzuki GSX-R 1000
  • Kawasaki Ninja 1000
  • Harley-Davidson VRSC Night Rod Special
  • Suzuki Hayabusa 1340