Ducati launched its new superbike – the 1098 two years back in three versions – the 1098 base model (Rs. 8.57 lakh), the higher spec 1098 S (Rs. 10 lakh) and its World Superbike homologated bike the 1098 R (Rs. 17 lakh). Now Ducati has gone and launched two versions of its stunning new 1198 – the lower spec Biposto and the 1198 S – both of which really do have 1198. OverDrive (Feb. ’09) takes a look.

One may remember that the awesome 90 V-twin Testatretta Evoluzione engine first fitted to the 1098 uses technology developed from the Desmosedici MotoGP bike. Now thanks to an increase in the bore and stroke, the engine gets an extra 99cc for the 1198. This brings capacity up to the 1200cc limit for the V-twins in the World Superbike Championship in which it competes, and staves off threats from 2009 WSB newcomers Aprilia and BMW. But it does not end there for the improved engine as it also gets new crankcases and bigger valves. All of these changes increase maximum power by 12PS all the way across the rev range as well as boost torque to 131.4Nm.

The high gadget that lets one use every last drop of that power and torque is Ducati’s brand new Traction Control system (DTC). This come standard on the 1198 S and uses the same software logic used by Ducati Corse in their MotoGP and WSB racers, offering a choice of eight settings developed in conjunction with professional test riders and racers.

Usually the problem with traction control on production bikes is that the system can’t run with catalytic converters without destroying them, as it works by dumping neat fuel through the exhausts when a reduction in torque is required. But the new system cuts off the fuel supply rather than the spark that ignites the fuel, so the catalytic converters aren’t affected. And that’s more environment friendly too.

What is especially stunning about the 1198 S’s system is how seamless it is – says OverDrive (Feb. ’09). You only it’s working because the red traction control light flickers on the dash and that’s if you have the mental capacity to look down and notice it as you’re caning your way out of a corner at mind boggling speeds!

But the 1198 S is not just about corner exits. It’s also about the way it flies down the straights at warp speed with a delicious Ducati drone emanating from the exhausts, the way it turns fluidly into corners and the way it handles like a dream. Not only has the Ducati shed more weight off the bike, but it’s removed some lard from strategic places like the headlight right at the front, and this on its own improves agility. What also helps is the customized rear suspension. This suspension system sports an adjustable rear ride height, which works independently of the preload and other settings. This helps for customizing the set-up depending on personal riding style and track conditions.

Visually, apart from the new wheels  (the standard 1198 Biposto gets new 10-spoke alloy wheels while the higher spec S is fitted with MotoGP-derived forged and machined seven-spoke versions), a new number on the side of the fairing and a new dash and gold coloured frame for the S, the bike does not look any different from the 1098.

So out of all this new exotica from Ducati, which version should you actually go for? OverDrive (Feb. ’09) recommends the 1198 S. the 1098 R has the higher revving, WSB-derived engine and chassis parts, but it comes at a sky high price. Meanwhile the 1098 S with all its updated parts, DTC and extra ceecees feels just as good. And it’s nine grand cheaper! The Biposto is three grand cheaper again than the S version, but it’s not as good to ride…

Hence the OverDrive vote goes to the 1198 S…which one would you opt for?