20/10/2010: I’m just back from Imola after a very looong day! But I have ridden on sacred ground so that’s given me some extra energy!
The bikes were pretty cool too!
Anyway, the new 1198 SP is Ducati’s 2011 top of the range superbike as the 1098R is no longer in serious production. So Ducati now offers the 848 EVO, 1198 and 1198 SP
The 1198 SP features the same 170hp L-twin from the current 1198. News are the Ducati Quick Shifter and sublime suspension. The quick shifter worked very well at Imola and is a very welcome addition on such a technical circuit. On the way towards the famous Aqua Minerale corners I quickly work my way up to third gear never letting go of full throttle. Things happen very fast and in terms of real world “drag racing” the quick shifter will quickly give you more acceleration than an extra 10 or so horsepower will. Very handy indeed. The slipper clutch also impressed, specially next to the 848 EVO that doesn’t have such a high spec deceleration helper. The Brembo monoblocks are just so powerful so any help should you work your way down the box to first gear a little bit wrong is appreciated. The Ohlins fully adjustable suspension is sublime and the rear TTX item has got abundance of feel particularly mid-corner and exiting them.
With full traction control, Quick Shifter, top suspension and a price that doesn’t scare us as much as the R the 1198 SP is a dream bike bargain. More in my full article. By Tor Sagen/Photography: Milagro
