Ducati press release:

Ducati's awesome new 1198 S

Ducati’s technical excellence and Troy Bayliss’ passion are united to create the new superbike 1198 S.

While maintaining the same look as the previous multi-awarding and BoTY winning 1098 S, the 1198 S is essentially a total new bike. Incorporating all of the World Superbike technology derived directly from the 2008 World Championship winning race bike of Troy Bayliss, the 1198 S, just like the 1098 S before it, truly is engineered by the stopwatch and designed by the racetrack. It has more power, less weight and more MotoGP and World Superbike technology delivered straight from the racetrack, directly to you.

The new 1198cc Testastretta Evoluzione engine now produces a very powerful 170hp (125kW) and a class-beating 97lb-ft (13.4kgm) of torque @ 8,000 rpm, thanks to vacuum die-cast technology used for the crankcase, the engine is almost 3kg lighter than the 1098 S and contributes to the overall lower dry weight (excludes fuel) of just 169kg.

For the first time ever on a Ducati production motorcycle, a true competition-level traction control system for the road comes integrated into the 1198 S electronics as standard. The Ducati Traction Control system (DTC), further underlines Ducati’s technology flow from World Championship racing to production models. Adjusted by the rider from the left-hand switchgear, the ultra high speed software of the system offers a choice of 8 settings developed by Ducati test riders and racers. The new instrument panel also features DTC intervention indicators, so the rider is aware of system interaction.

The existing Ducati Data Analysis (DDA) system, also standard on 1198 S, has been enhanced with an additional channel dedicated to recording DTC data. DTC and DDA – experience what world champions do, on your own Ducati.

New 7-spoke GP replica Marchesini forged and machined wheels are matched with fully adjustable high performance Ohlins forks, shock and steering damper. Responding to every imperfection in the tarmac, light weight wheels and Ohlins suspension communicate the condition and quality of tyre-to-road contact patch, a feature that puts every rider in superior control.

Available in Red or Midnight Black, deliveries to Australian customers commence this month with a RRP of $32,495.00 (Plus Dealer and statutory charges) 1198S – Unleash the spirit of Troy.