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.