Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 90-degree V-twin (L-twin), Desmodromic 4 valves per cylinder.
Displacement:
888 cc
Bore X Stroke:
94 mm x 64 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1 (typical, may vary by sub-model)
Performance
Horsepower:
Approximately 98-112 hp @ 9,000 rpm (depending on model year and spec)
Torque:
Approximately 80-85 Nm @ 7,000 rpm (depending on model year and spec)
Fuel System
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Weber Marelli or similar) with single injector per cylinder.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 95 or higher recommended)
Ignition
System:
Digital CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)
Cooling System
Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with fan.
Lubrication
Type:
Wet sump
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
6-speed constant mesh sequential gearbox.
Optional
Optional Gearbox:
N/A (Standard 6-speed)
Features
Clutch:
Dry, multi-plate, hydraulically operated.
Final Drive:
Chain drive (525 or 530 pitch, depending on model variant).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 2,100 mm (varies slightly by model variant)
Width:
Approx. 740 mm (at handlebars)
Height:
Approx. 1,150 mm (at seat)
Weights
Dry Weight:
Approx. 185-195 kg (depending on model variant)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 205-215 kg (with fluids)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
18 Liters (including ~3.5L reserve)
Dimensions
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,430 - 1,450 mm
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is evaluated differently than cars, focus on rider aids)
Active Features
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes with 4-piston Brembo calipers, single rear disc brake.
Anti Lock Braking System:
ABS was an optional feature on later models and not standard across the range.
Passive Features
Frame Construction:
Chromium-molybdenum steel trellis frame for rigidity and rider feedback.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, taillight, and turn signals.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
Basic analog instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer, temperature gauge, warning lights). No modern infotainment.
Driver Assistance
Rider Aids:
Limited; ABS available on some later models. No traction control or riding modes.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
None.
Electronics
ECU:
Electronic control unit managing fuel injection and ignition timing.
Instrumentation:
Full analog dashboard with chronometer on higher-spec models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Desmo Valve Check Interval:
Every 10,000 km or 12 months (critical for Desmodromic systems).
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 24,000 km or 24 months (critical for engine integrity).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Fully synthetic motorcycle oil, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50, API SG/SH/SJ or JASO MA certified.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 Liters (with filter change).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant with anti-corrosion additives, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Clutch Fluid Type:
Mineral oil (specific for Ducati hydraulic clutches, check manual for exact type).
Known Issues
Desmo Valve Adjustment:
Can be complex; requires specialized tools and knowledge. Regular checks are vital.
Timing Belt Wear:
Belts can degrade over time; premature replacement is advised if service history is unknown.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring harnesses and connectors can be prone to corrosion and failure.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Early fuel pumps can be a point of failure; check for consistent fuel delivery.
Fork Seals:
Leaking fork seals are a common wear item on performance motorcycles of this era.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Marque History:
Ducati, an Italian manufacturer renowned for its passion for performance, racing, and distinctive V-twin engines.
Model Evolution
Predecessor:
Ducati 851
Successor:
Ducati 916
Development:
Developed as a homologation special to compete in the Superbike World Championship, building upon the 851 platform.
Production
Production Years:
1990-1995 (with various sub-models like 888, 888SP, 888Corsa)
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy
Racing Success
World Superbike Championships:
The 888 platform was instrumental in Ducati's early Superbike World Championship dominance, with riders like Raymond Roche and Doug Polen achieving titles.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Racing Titles Won:
Multiple World Superbike Championship titles (Riders and Manufacturers) during its lineage (851/888).
Motorcycle Journal Reviews:
Consistently praised for its handling, braking performance, and potent V-twin engine characteristics.
Collectible Status:
Highly regarded as a classic sportbike and a desirable collector's item due to its performance and heritage.