Ducati’s middleweight sports model has grown up this year, with a boost in displacement to 849.4 cc and a 30 per cent increase in maximum power. The 848, revealed this week in Milan, has also lost weight compared to the 749, down 20 kg for a total dry weight of 168 kg (369 lb), which makes it 5 kg lighter than its big brother, the 1098.
The enlarged Testastretta Evoluzione engine – both bore and stroke have been increased, from 90 x 58.8 mm to 94 x 61.2 mm, bringing displacement to 849.4 cc – produces 134 hp at 10,000
rpm, giving the bike a better power-to-weight ratio than the 999. Max
torque is 70.8 lb-ft at 8,250 rpm.
The new motor gets engine cases formed through a vacuum die-cast process, which helps to lighten the motor by nearly 3 kg. The 749’s dry clutch has been replaced by a wet, hydraulically actuated unit that trims another kg of weight and should tame the rattles.
Wheelbase is 10 mm longer at 1,430 mm (56.3 in), which should improve stability. On the down side (or the up side?), seat height is increased by 50 mm to 830 mm (32.6 in).
The 848 will be sold in two colours: red, and pearl white. No word on Canadian pricing or availability yet.
:eek Gorgeous!