Sportbikes

2009Ducati Superbike 1198 S

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The 2009 Ducati Superbike 1198 S is a race-bred sportbike designed for experienced riders seeking maximum performance. Its 1198cc desmodromic V2 engine delivers 170 horsepower and aggressive character, making it best known for sharp handling and thrilling acceleration on both track and road.

Capacity: 1198.4 ccm
Engine: V-Twin
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 171.0 kg
Seat height: 820 mm
Power: 170.0 HP (125.0 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike ＋ Add to garage All model years ⚠ Recalls listed (1)

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail2%

Cornering95%

City riding25%

Daily riding25%

Touring20%

Two-up15%

Track97%

Best for: Built primarily for track days and aggressive sport riding, with road use as a secondary compromise.
Built for: A raw, race-bred V-twin superbike that rewards precision and commitment with explosive power and razor-sharp handling.
Not ideal for: This is not the bike for beginners, commuters, or anyone seeking a relaxed, comfortable, or long-distance ride.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 820mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2009 Ducati Superbike 1198 S, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 1198.4 ccm
Power: 170.0 HP (125.0 kW)
Torque: 131.5 Nm (13.4 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin
Power/weight ratio: 0.9942 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 106.0 x 67.9 mm
Compression: 12.7:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Dry multiplate with hydraulic control

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1430 mm
Seat height: 820 mm
Dry weight: 171.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 15.50 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Tubular steel Trellis frame in ALS 450
Front suspension: Showa 43mm with TiO fully adjustable upside-down fork
Rear suspension: Progressive linkage with fully adjustable Showa monoshock. Aluminium single-sided swingarm
Front wheel travel: 127 mm
Rear wheel travel: 127 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc
Front brakes diameter: 330 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 245 mm
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre: 190/55-ZR17

Other

Color options: Rosso (Nero/Grigio), Bianco perla (Nero/Grigio)

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

Safety Recalls

⚠ 1 recall may apply

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERYMay 2009 · 09V170000

DUCATI IS RECALLING 1,549 MY 2009 1198, 1198 S, 1098 R, 848 AND MY 2010 F1098 STREETFIGHTER AND STREETFIGHTER S MOTORCYCLES. THESE MOTORCYCLES MAY EXPERIENCE FUEL LEAKAGE FROM THE FUEL LINE AT THE FUEL INJECTOR CONNECTION. THE PLASTIC FITTING BETWEEN FUEL INJECTOR AND HOSE CAN WARP OR BREAK WHICH COULD POSSIBLY RESULT IN A POTENTIAL HAZARD TO THE RIDER AND POSSIBLE DAMAGE TO THE MOTORCYCLE.

Risk: ANY DAMAGE TO THE FUEL LINE MAY LEAD TO AN INCREASED RISK OF FIRE OR AN UNEXPECTED LOSS OF ENGINE PERFORMANCE, THE THEREBY INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED INJECTOR COMPONENTS FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 3, 2009. TO LOCATE YOUR NEAREST AUTHORIZED DUCATI DEALER, YOU MAY GO TO WWW.DUCATIUSA.COM AND SELECT THE "DEALER LOCATOR" OR YOU MAY CALL TOLL FREE AT 1-800-231-6696.

These recalls cover some 2009 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 →