EICMA 2010: Ducati 848 EVO

Italian motorcycle manufacturer Ducati is present at the EICMA 2010 Show and, among other exhibited bikes, a superb 848 EVO sportbike was lying around just waiting for us to photograph it for your viewing pleasure.

Like the EVO versions of the Hypermotard, the new 848 builds off the base model, but features a higher spec engine and performance additions.

The Testastretta Evoluzione Twin engine gets a redesign. The liquid-cooled, 849 cc 90-degree V-Twin has been enhanced with new Marelli throttle bodies, revised cylinder heads with straighter intake ports and reshaped combustion chambers. Ducati claims a 6-hp increase over the standard 848, raising output to 140 measured at the crank or 116 rear-wheel hp with peak torque being situated in the vicinity of 96 Nm (71 lb-ft).

Although the 848 shares many physical and technical design elements with the stronger 1198, it uses a wet clutch rather than a dry clutch as accustomed to Ducati superbikes. The manufacturer claims it reduces weight, improves service life and feel of the clutch and reduces noise.

The 848 Evo weights only 168 kg while featuring twin under-seat silencers, single-sided swingarm, Trellis frame, race-inspired bodywork and steering damper.

“In pursuit of perfection, Ducati engineers have listened to passionate owners of the 848 Superbike since its delivery in 2008 and now enhance its specifications to deliver impressive performances whether riding through mid-town traffic or racing through track-day competition,” a company statement reads. “Its family resemblance assures that it is equipped with all the performance advancements of the Superbike family, while adding its own particular character and style.”