2006 Ducati Supersport Review

The 2006 Ducati Supersport lineup of sportbikes offers riders their choice of 800cc or 1000cc powerplants. Both models feature Ducati""s legendary fuel-injected, Desmo L-Twin engine with a six-speed gearbox, but the Supersport 1000 DS offers a substantial increase in horsepower and torque (95 hp/70.2 lb-ft vs 77 hp/54 lb-ft).

Stylistically, the two Ducati Supersport models look almost identical, but there are a few differences. While they each boast Ducati""s high-specification chassis, the 800 is equipped with a 43mm Marzocchi inverted front fork suspension with 4.7 inches of travel, and an adjustable Sachs twin-sided steel swing arm shock with 5.4 inches of travel on the back. Comparatively, the 1000 DS has a 43mm Showa inverted front fork suspension with 4.7 inches of travel on the front, and an adjustable Ohlins twin-sided aluminum swing arm shock on the back with 5.7 inches of travel.

Seat height and wheelbase is also different between the two models. On the Ducati Supersport 800, the seat rests 32.1 inches off the ground while the Supersport 1000 DS is just a few hairs higher, at 32.3 inches. As for the wheelbase, the 800 is a little lengthier at 55.3 inches, compared to the 54.9-inch wheelbase of the 1000 DS.

The brakes on both 2006 Ducati Supersport models feature dual 12.6-inch Brembo hydraulic discs on the front and a single 9.7-inch disc on the rear wheel. Both bikes feature the same 120/70 ZR17 tire on the front, but the 1000DS has a slightly larger rear tire – 180/55 ZR17, versus 170/60 ZR17 on the 800.

Visually, the 2006 Supersport is an exciting-looking motorcycle. It has an aggressive fairing design that""s sharp and angular, with a 4.2-gallon fuel tank that fits beautifully in line. The tank has a cushioned posterior for improved rider comfort during longer rides, and the single-form two-passenger seat allows for comfortable ergonomics for both rider and passenger. Both bikes come standard in Ducati""s trademark red color, with an impeccable fit and finish throughout.