Sportbikes
1997Ducati 748 SP
16 fields on record
The 1997 Ducati 748 SP is a lightweight middleweight sportbike designed for riders seeking pure performance and agility. Its 749cc V-twin engine delivers 104 horsepower with responsive handling, making it ideal for track days and spirited road riding. Best known for combining Ducati's iconic L-twin character with manageable power and a competitive price point in the superbike market.
- Capacity
- 749.0 ccm
- Engine
- V-Twin
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Dry weight
- 200.0 kg
- Seat height
- 790 mm
- Power
- 104.0 HP (76.5 kW)
What’s new for the 1997 Ducati 748 SP
vs the 1996| Spec | 1996 | 1997 |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 82.3 HP (60.5 kW) | 104.0 HP (76.5 kW) |
| Top speed | — | 245.0 km/h (152.2 mph) |
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Built as a homologation-special superbike, it exists to carve apexes on track days and twisty roads rather than to serve as everyday transport.
- Built for
- It rewards a precise, committed riding style with razor-sharp turn-in, strong mid-range V2 torque, and the visceral feedback of a lightweight Italian race-bred chassis.
- Not ideal for
- It is a poor choice for new riders, commuters seeking comfort, or anyone planning long-distance touring or two-up travel.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Will it fit you?
Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to usEngine
- Capacity
- 749.0 ccm
- Power
- 104.0 HP (76.5 kW)
- Engine type
- V-Twin
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.5200 HP/kg (dry)
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Starting
- Electric
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 245.0 km/h (152.2 mph)
Dimensions & weight
- Seat height
- 790 mm
- Dry weight
- 200.0 kg
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1996 | 1997 |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 748 cc | 749 cc |
| Dry weight | 200 kg | 200 kg |
| Seat height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Safety Recalls
⚠ 2 recalls may applyEQUIPMENTApr 2014 · 14E012000
Ohlins Racing AB (Ohlins) is recalling certain steering dampers kits manufactured with an incorrectly machined bracket. These dampers were sold for use as aftermarket equipment on Yamaha R1, R6, and FZ6, Suzuki TL1000 R and GSX1300R, Honda CB600RR, and Ducati Monster 1000, 748, 848, 916, 996, and 998 motorcycles. Also included are universal steering damper kits with part numbers SD 000 through SD 005. The affected brackets may crack.
Risk: If there is a crack in the steering bracket, at low speeds it may cause the steering to lock, leading to personal injury or a crash.
Remedy: Ohlins will notify the distributors and provide their customers with a new bracket. The recall began in November 2013. Owners may contact Ohlins USA at 1-828-692-4525. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 13E-034.
WHEELS:HUBCAP/COVERDec 1999 · 99V360000
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MOTORCYCLES EQUIPPED WITH A REAR WHEEL HUB SPINDLE. INTERNAL CRACKS MAY BE PRESENT ON THE REAR WHEEL SPINDLE.
Risk: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE THE SPINDLE TO FAIL AFFECTING THE CONTROL OF THE MOTORCYCLE, AND COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE REAR WHEEL SPINDLE AND REPLACE IF NECESSARY.
These recalls cover some 1997 bikes of this model. Whether one applies to a specific bike, and whether the repair has already been done, depends on its VIN — check your VIN with NHTSA or ask a dealer.
Source: NHTSA. View all Ducati recalls →
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Ducati 748 SP?
The 1997 Ducati 748 SP has a Capacity of 749.0 ccm (45.71 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Ducati 748 SP have?
The 1997 Ducati 748 SP has a Power of 104.0 HP (76.5 kW).
How many gears does the Ducati 748 SP have?
The 1997 Ducati 748 SP has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
How much does the Ducati 748 SP weigh?
The 1997 Ducati 748 SP has a Dry weight of 200.0 kg (440.9 pounds).
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