The final ingredient in the new Ducati’s alphabet soup, the Ducati Data Analysis system, is included as a stock feature on both the revised 1198 and the 1198SP, while on the latter there’s an Ohlins fully adjustable steering damper as there was on the S model. But the Digitech dash is just as hard to read as ever cluttered and dark with too small digits.
Ducati’s done a good job in loading up the 1198SP with all the electronic and mechanical rider aids it’s had on its factory Superbikes down the years, all of which work well and are a direct example of how racing improves the breed. Diehard Ducatisti will like this bike, significant as it is in pulling down the curtain on the family of motorcycles born back in 1986, which not only established the small Italian manufacturer as a major force on the world two-wheeled stage, but also defined its commercial strategy for the past quarter of a century. SR
Specifications 2011 Ducati 1198 SP
MSRP: $21,995
Engine
Type: Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 90-degree V-twin, 4 valves/cyl.
Displacement: 1198cc
Bore x stroke: 106 x 67.9mm
Compression ratio: 12.7:1
Induction: Marelli EFI, elliptical throttle bodies with 64mm equivalent dia., single injector/cyl.
Chassis
Front tire: 120/70ZR-17 Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP
Rear tire: 190/55ZR-17 Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP
Rake/trail: 24.5 deg./4.6 in. (118mm)
Wheelbase: 56.3 in. (1430mm)
Seat height: 32.2 in. (820mm)
Fuel capacity: 4.8 gal. (18L)
Claimed dry weight: 370 lb. (168kg)