2012 Ducati Streetfighter 848: first impressions after our test ride

From the new Modena circuit, here are out first impressions on the new 2012 Ducati Streetfighter 848.
In comparison to the Streetfighter 1198 model, the chassis’ design is completely different: the rake angle has lost 1.
5 degrees, going from 25.
6° to 24.
5° (same angle as the 848 Superbike), while trail has gone from 114 to 103mm.
This is due to the new frame which features a longer back-bone that pushes the load on the upper side of the yoke (looking at the bike from the left side, it looks like the yoke itself has been rotated anti-clockwise).

The fork is the same as the Streetfighter 1198, therefore it is longer than the Superbike version.
All that gives the front-end good confidence and straightforwardness which ensure maximum fun and excellent handling when leaning in both slow and fast corners.
The engine is very gradual and responsive but at the same time is sweeter and easier to handle than the 1198 version, thanks to the reduced displacement and to 11° distribution scheme (Testastretta) which provides more traction at low revs to the detriment of the performance at high revs.

Last but not least, the rear tyre is a 180/70 R17 (Pirelli Diablo rosso Corsa) whose higher shoulder (same size used in Supersport) provides excellent grip while leaning as well as better handling and comfort.

View the full Ducati Streetfighter 848 2012 – Live Test Modena photo galleryView the full TEST Live Ducati Streetfighter 848 2012 photo gallery