Used test: 2009 DUCATI 1198S
It could be argued that the 1098/1198 V-twin superbikes saved Ducati. Strong performers or not, the controversial style of the preceding 999 range of sportsbikes had very much divided opinion and tested the loyalty of the famous Italian marque’s fans. Luckily for them, Ducati was on the case and when the first 1098 superbike made an appearance at the 2006 bike shows, the Ducatisti collectively breathed a sigh of relief: Ducati’s biggest superbike could boast drop-dead gorgeous looks once more.
Both press and buyers agreed, with the £11,200, 160bhp, 1098 achieving plenty of sales success. Following the well-established trend, the new bike was joined simultaneously by the pricier, higher spec S model. Later, in 2008, the very expensive and bigger capacity 1198cc homologation-special, the £24,000, 180bhp 1098R was added to the line-up. This bike formed the basis of the WSB racer on which Australian Troy Bayliss won the 2008 title. A £30,000 limited-edition 1089R Troy Bayliss was then introduced to celebrate the victory early the following year.
At the end of 2008, the first £11,950 1198 base model went into production. Essentially an upgrade of the 1098, the new bigger-engined bike boasted another 10bhp spread pretty much right across the rev range, with details like new wheels and headlights also helping to set it apart. The £14,950 S model (the one we’ve tested here) which came along at the same time, was both lighter and of higher spec. Öhlins suspension and forged Marchesini wheels improved handling with the excellent standard fitment traction control boosting safety appreciably. Anoraks were pleased to learn that the bike’s Ducati Data Acquisition system could record up to three hours of riding information. Its bronze finished frame and carbon body parts are another detailed distinction. The ultra exclusive £31,000, 180bhp, 1198R became available early in 2010, homologating the race machine Spanish racer Carlos Checa won Ducati’s last
