Ducati Desmosedici RR vs. 1098R - Money No Object
When Only The Best Will Do
Hard Parts
Engine
Ignore the model designation-this Testastretta Evoluzione V-twin measures 1198cc. A 2mm bore and 3.2mm stroke increase take advantage of World Superbike's 1200cc displacement limit for twin-cylinder bikes. Bigger pistons, bigger valves, higher compression and bigger throttle bodies all contribute to the R's almost 30-bhp advantage over the base 1098.
Chassis
The steel-trellis frame is manufactured from ALS 450 tubing, a low-carbon steel alloy with admirable strength-to-weight properties and high corrosion resistance. The subframe is aluminum on the monoposto R-model (saving weight), and the latest-version of Ducati's single-sided swingarm combines cast and welded-sheet sections to optimize the strength/weight balance.
Suspension
The back end is held up by Ohlins' latest shock technology, the TTX "twin-tube" design that facilitates positive pressure build-up in both directions and decreases internal gas pressure for reduced cavitation and friction. Up front, the fully adjustable Ohlins FG511 fork is Ti-nitride coated to minimize stiction and maximize front-wheel feedback.
Brakes
Brembo's radial-mount M4-34 Monobloc calipers are identical to those on the Desmosedici, and are machined from a solid block of alloy to clamp down on six-button, alloy-carrier rotors with minimal distortion and maximum force. A radial-pump master cylinder decreases lever travel and improves feedback-essential when modulating this much braking force.
Ducati 1098R | Price: $39,995
|
| Tech Spec | | |
| Engine type: l-c 90-deg. V-twin | Front brake: Dual four-piston Brembo radial calipers, 330mm discs | Weight (tank full/empty): 422/397 lbs. |
| Valve train: DOHC, 8v, desmodromic | Rear brake: Single two-piston Brembo caliper, 245mm disc | Measured horsepower: 163.0 bhp @ 9500 rpm |
| Displacement: 1198cc | Front tire: 120/70-ZR17 Pirelli Dragon Supercorsa SP | Measured torque: 90.3 lb.-ft. @ 7750 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: 106.0 x 67.9mm | Rear tire: 195/55-ZR17 Pirelli Dragon Supercorsa SP | Fuel mileage (high/low/avg.): 33/30/31 mpg |
| Compression: 12.8:1 | Rake/trail: 24.5 deg./3.8 in. | Colors: Red |
| Fuel system: Marelli EFI | Seat height: 32.2 in. | Availability: Now |
| Clutch: Dry, multi-plate slipper | Wheelbase: 56.3 in. | Warranty: 48 mo., unlimited mi. |
| Transmission: 6-speed | Fuel capacity: 4.1 gal. | Contact:
Ducati North America
10443 Bandley Dr.
Cupertino, CA 95014
408.253.0499
www.ducatiusa.com |
| Frame: Tubular steel trellis with single-sided aluminum swingarm | | |
| Front suspension: 43mm Ohlins inverted fork with adjustable spring preload, compression and rebound damping | | |
| Rear suspension: Single Ohlins shock with adjustable spring preload, compression and rebound damping | | |
Dyno
With peak horsepower hovering solidly in the 160s, you might be forgiven for thinking this is the dyno trace of a liter-class inline-four. The torque curve is the telltale V-twin giveaway-not even the strongest liter-bike can approach the 1098R's 60-plus lb.-ft. reading in the neighborhood of 3500 revs.
Ergos
Uber-Olympian Michael Phelps is said to have the perfect swimmer's body; his freakishly long torso and arms also make him perfectly suited for the 1098R's long reach and low bars. Pegs mount high and rearward-good for cornering clearance and forward weight bias, not so good for comfort.
Enjoyed this Post? Subscribe to our RSS Feed, or use your favorite social media to recommend us to friends and colleagues!