Ducati's smaller superbike has always lived in the shadows of its bigger siblings, but the 848 could well change that. Closer in actual capacity, and arguably having more usable performance, the smaller V-twin really cuts the mustard against the 1098.
It's inevitable the Duke will be compared to the 1098, and can put up a damned good show when it is. In fact the 848 is just as remarkable as its brother, it just reaches a similar high score via different maths.

Of course it has some of the very same virtues of the more famous Ducati. For starters, it shares the exotic brand name synonymous with race success and class. Ducatis say a hell of a lot about your tastes, not to mention bank balance.

It looks just as good as the 1098 too with gorgeously crafted bodywork clothing purposeful looking engine and chassis parts – especially in white. It's a lean, 'no excess' machine designed to thrill both the eyes and heart.

Less powerful it might be, but more involving it definitely is. It's true you need to work the 848 harder to get the best results. But that extra effort is well-rewarded. Its power and torque are spread in friendly fashion with bonuses given to those who're willing to spin it faster. Though when that's done, the speed gains can be delivered in a deceptive and unhurried manner, revealed by a digital speedo that often shows higher numbers than your body senses suggest it should do.

But it's when the roads demand chassis quality more than engine power that the Ducati displays its real forte. With slightly skinnier tyres and no steering damper, the 848 steers more rapidly and athletically than the 1098. True it weighs five kilos less, but the extra agility and ease with which the bike can be chucked about gives the impression of an even greater advantage.

Suspension gives great support and feedback and combined with the standard fitment Pirelli Dragon Supercorsas, this Duke always carves a fine and unflustered line. Armed to super-strong Brembo brakes, you can tackle roads like tracks on the 848, and still feel confident of the outcome.

The bike's stimulation is conditional though, with a cramped riding position, totally shite mirrors and hand-trapping steering lock conspiring to generate occasional hatred. But the quality of the inspirational 848 quickly helps you to forget its shortcomings. It's just too damned good to be disliked for long.

SPECIFICATIONS
2008 Ducati 848
Price: £9,500
NU Ins group: 17
Engine
Type: l/c, 8v, 90-degree V-twin, Desmodromic DOHC
Displacement: 849cc
Bore x Stroke: 94 x 61.2mm
Compression: 12.0:1
Carburation: Marelli fuel-injection, 56mm throttle bodies
Gearbox: Six-speed, chain
Power: 134bhp @ 10,000rpm (claimed)
Torque: 70.8lb/ft @ 8,250rpm (claimed)
Cycle Parts
Chassis: Steel-tubed trellis
Suspension: (F) 43mm Showa inverted forks, fully adjustable (R) Showa rising-rate monoshock, fully adjustable
Brakes: (F) twin 320mm discs, four-piston radial calipers
(R) 245mm disc, twin piston caliper
Wheels/Tyres: Cast Aluminium/Pirelli Dragon Supercorsa Pro (F) 120/70 17 (R) 180/55 17
Rake/Trail: 24°30'/97mm
Wheelbase: 1430mm
Capacity: 15.5litres
Dry weight: 168kg
Contact
Ducati 0845 122996
www.ducati.co.uk