Category:
Superbike, High-Performance Motorcycle
Segment:
Premium Sportbike
Competitors 2009:
Yamaha YZF-R1, Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade, Kawasaki ZX-10R Ninja, Suzuki GSX-R1000, Aprilia RSV4 Factory
Design Philosophy:
Performance-focused, rider-centric, racing heritage
Performance Highlights:
High power-to-weight ratio, advanced electronics (DTC on S model), sophisticated chassis and suspension
Primary Coverage:
Complete service, repair, maintenance, diagnostics, and troubleshooting
Secondary Coverage:
Wiring diagrams, specifications, special tools, component identification
Estimated Page Count:
500+
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Testastretta Evoluzione, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition
Transmission:
Gearbox, clutch (dry/wet), final drive, shift mechanism
Chassis:
Frame, swingarm, rear suspension, front forks (Telescopic, USD), steering system
Brakes:
Front and rear hydraulic disc brakes, Brembo calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, ECU, wiring harnesses, diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, throttle bodies, pressure regulator
Exhaust System:
Exhaust headers, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers
Bodywork:
Fairings, seats, fuel tank cover, tail section, fenders
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug inspection/replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement
Engine Overhaul:
Top-end rebuild, bottom-end rebuild, valve clearance adjustment, timing belt inspection/replacement
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, gearbox disassembly/reassembly
Suspension Service:
Fork oil replacement, fork seal replacement, shock absorber servicing
Brake System Maintenance:
Brake fluid flush, caliper overhaul, pad replacement
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting electrical faults, testing components, wiring diagram interpretation
Fuel System Diagnosis:
Injector testing, fuel pressure testing, throttle body synchronization
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and chassis rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electronic system troubleshooting.
Type:
L-Twin cylinder, four-stroke, desmodromic, liquid-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
106 mm x 67.9 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.4:1
Horsepower 1198:
170 hp (125 kW) @ 9750 rpm
Horsepower 1198 S:
170 hp (125 kW) @ 9750 rpm
Torque 1198:
98.5 lb-ft (134 Nm) @ 8000 rpm
Torque 1198 S:
98.5 lb-ft (134 Nm) @ 8000 rpm
Type:
Electronic fuel injection, elliptical throttle bodies (54mm equivalent)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Type:
Wet sump (with oil cooler)
Type:
6-speed manual sequential gearbox
Clutch:
Dry multi-plate clutch with hydraulic control
Gear Ratios:
1st: 37/15 (2.467), 2nd: 30/17 (1.765), 3rd: 27/19 (1.421), 4th: 24/20 (1.211), 5th: 23/22 (1.045), 6th: 22/23 (0.957)
Final Drive:
Chain, 525 pitch, front sprocket 15T, rear sprocket 38T
Crash Test Ratings:
Not applicable for motorcycles
Traction Control System:
Ducati Traction Control (DTC) - Standard on 1198 S, Optional/Accessory for 1198
Antilock Braking System:
ABS - Available as an option on some models/markets
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight
Frame Structure:
Tubular steel Trellis frame for high rigidity and feedback
Instrumentation:
Digital LCD display with tachometer, speedometer, gear indicator, lap timer, DTC levels, diagnostic messages, and ambient temperature.
Traction Control:
DTC with multiple adjustable levels for varying grip conditions and rider preference.
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-II style diagnostic port for connection to diagnostic tools and data logging.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Initial service recommended earlier.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles)
Desmodromic Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 24 months
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 15W-50, API SL, JASO MA (or equivalent synthetic motorcycle oil)
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.8 L (4.0 US qt) without filter change, 4.0 L (4.2 US qt) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, minimum 40% concentration (e.g., Motorex Coolant M3.0)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 5W or 7.5W (specified in manual for precise tuning)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates (dry clutch), chain and sprockets, brake pads, tires, fork seals.
Potential Failures:
Fuel pump issues, starter solenoid problems, occasional electrical gremlins, ECU software glitches (less common). Desmodromic system requires precise adjustment.
Heritage:
Ducati has a rich history in motorcycle racing, particularly in Superbike championships, emphasizing performance and Italian design.
Predecessors:
Successor to the highly acclaimed Ducati 1098 and 1098 R models, carrying forward the Testastretta engine lineage.
Key Innovations Vs 1098:
Increased bore and stroke for greater displacement, revised electronics, lighter components on S model (e.g., Marchesini wheels).
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy
Production Years:
2009-2011
Motorcycle Of The Year Contenders:
Often cited in 'Best Superbike' and 'Most Desirable Motorcycle' lists by automotive publications.
Performance Reviews:
Consistently received high praise from critics for its raw power, track capability, and aggressive styling.
Emissions Standards:
Meets Euro 3 emissions standards for its model year.
