DUCATI 748SP (1998-1999) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Ducati 748 was a fully-faired sports bike produced between 1994 and 2002 as a smaller displacement version of the Ducati 916. After nine years of manufacturing, the Ducati 748 was replaced in 2002 by the 2003 Ducati 749.

The Ducati 748 was identical in almost every department to the 916 model. Both models featured design elements borrowed from the Ducati Supermono and were designed by Massimo Tamburini.

Two characteristics set them apart: rear tire size and engine displacement. The Ducati 748 packed a shorter piston stroke with a higher rev ceiling of 11,500 rpm and smaller pistons that delivered faster acceleration.

Over its production period, the Ducati 748 was joined by other variations, such as the Ducati 748SP manufactured from 1995 to 1996 and the 748SPS produced from 1996 to 1999. The SP and SPS models packed a more tuned engine than the base models and were only available as a monoposto (single seat).

In 1998, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer launched the Ducati 748SPS, a sports machine that featured more power than the base model and was inspired by the machines used by the House of Borgo Panigale in the WSB Championship.

Underneath its fuel tank, the 1999 Ducati 748SPS housed a 748cc four-stroke liquid-cooled V-twin engine with a fuel injection system in charge, delivering 105 hp at 11,000 rpm and 75 Nm (55 lb-ft) torque at 8,700 rpm.