From Ducati's press material:
Ever since the introduction of the original 851, the Superbike series has best represented Ducati's sporting soul. A family of motorcycles continues to give Ducati and Ducati fans great pride and satisfaction by way of racing championships and in road performance. Ducati Superbikes have always been admired for their exceptional real world performance against many competitors that only perform better on paper. Although each Ducati Superbike has set new standards of design and race winning performance, their evolution goes on year after year. For 2004, the 749 and the 999 are offered in three distinctly different versions -- "basic", "S" and "R". Each version boasts several improvements, most notably this year the 749S: now with a Testastretta engine and power increased from 103 to 110 Hp.
Now in its second year, the new Superbike family has received numerous awards and accolades from the industry, and has developed a dedicated following of motorcyclist, even those who had grown attached to the iconic 748 and 998 series. Today, the exclusive style with stacked headlights and the unique exhaust under the tail section represents the new trend in Superbikes. All of the 749 and 999 models have similar styling, but each in the series offers significantly different specifications in engine performance and chassis set-up to satisfy the full spectrum of riders seeking a high performance sport bike.
Last year the 999S was offered as a more powerful version of the 999, and now the 749 follows suit with the new 749S with a Testastretta engine and an increase in power output , from 103 to 110 Hp.
In addition to innovations on the individual models, they all share standard components of unparalleled quality and design. Fully adjustable riding position and controls ensure balance and symbiosis between rider and machine thanks to the adjustable seat and fuel tank position (for the single-seat versions), five-way adjustable foot rests (except on the basic 749) and four-way adjustable control levers. All 749 and the 999 models feature designs that make them unique in the motorcycling world. These include the asymmetric exhaust system, which utilizes the available space incredibly efficiently while still allowing impressive power output and low emissions to easily meet the Euro2 emission standards. Another distinctive engineering solution is the use of CAN line electronic control. This emerging technology from the automotive industry has allowed a significant reduction in the complexity and weight of the motorcycles wiring and electronic system, while improving performance and electronic data capacity.
A series of state-of-the-art technical solutions for the chassis and running gear are found on all the models of the Superbike family. The chain adjustment system using "sliders" on the swinging arm, allows chain adjustment without altering ride height, so as not to compromise the suspension set up.
Major new solutions have been adopted to give the rider a racing performance brake system. The whole Superbike 2004 range uses radial technology brake and clutch master cylinders with integrated hydraulic reservoirs, delivering progressive and linear power and feel, while eliminating the need for complicated pipes and brackets. Equally advanced are the "triple bridge" brake callipers with four pistons and four separate pads as seen on the most exotic race bikes. Finally, the Ducati Superbikes use lightweight 4.5 millimetre thick discs, mounted further outward to improve cooling in all conditions.
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749
The 749 is the value entry to the Ducati Superbike family. It is a performance sports bike, exceptional for track riding but still very capable on the road too. It represents a balance between track performance and road agility.
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749S
More power than the 749 and a more advanced chassis set up make this bike ready to hit the track straight from the Ducati Store. It aims for maximum performance while still being at ease on the road.
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749R
For those focused directly on competition, the 749R is the ideal solution. It is a perfect racing machine, with a Testastretta series engine and chassis specifically developed to ensure top competitiveness on the racetrack. The considerable use of special materials, from magnesium to carbon fiber to titanium, make this motorcycle extra-light and extremely effective.
More details about the 2004 Ducati 749 series
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999
This is the standard model of the bike that dominated the 2003 World Superbike championship in its debut season. Further improved since its introduction, it will satisfy experienced riders while still welcoming those new to Ducati Superbikes.
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999S
It would be difficult to ask for more from this model, which offers an excellent cost to performance ratio. The differences between this and a racing bike are minimal, evidenced by its engine performance and high quality equipment. Although it is approved for road riding, this beautifully styled bike is also a perfect track machine, able to satisfy even the most demanding racers.
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999R
This is the link between standard production bikes and the racing world. With the best that technology can offer, it stands out thanks to even more advanced technical solutions, starting with the high performance big bore/short stroke Testastretta engine, producing even higher RPM limits and 139 Hp.
More details about the 2004 Ducati 999 series
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