Love RANGER

Somewhat overshadowed by some of its headline-grabbing Ducati stablemates, the SuperSport 950 is worthy of its spot in the stable. The 950 S walks a blurred line between superbike and sports-tourer. The well-trodden path by manufacturers is to take the engine from a fire-breathing superbike and deposit it into a more upright and user-friendly package aka a supernaked. It’s what the masses want. Myself included – well, at least I think that is what I want.

Then there is the sports-tourer. Upright, good weather protection, strong motors and subframes designed to carry pillions and pannier bags rather than just looking great. Enter the SuperSport 950 S, fully faired and gorgeous with its single-sided swingarm, gold Öhlins and red trellis frame. The SuperSport 950 S is aimed at first-time sportsbike buyers or those wanting a road-focused, softer-edged sportsbike that is a bit more budget-friendly.

My somewhat pig-headed assumption was that this would mean underpowered with terrible suspension. I was wrong.

The SuperSport 950 S’s fairing, twin headlights, integrated mirrors and fuel tank are all inspired by the Panigale V4. If you squint, you can see the resemblance.