Ducati Glasgow

Evoluzione 1098R - A Racing Influence

1098 R TESTASTRETTA EVOLUZIONE POWER

The 1098 R engine represents the finest twin-cylinder technology in the world. It produces 180hp (132.4kW) at 9,750rpm and 99.1 lb-ft (13.7kgm) of brute torque at 7,750rpm in standard mode and an astonishing 186hp when using the supplied race kit (intended strictly for track use only).

The specification of this engine underlines its no-compromise race technology. To help contain the massive 'R' power output, the crankcases and cylinder heads have been sand-cast produced, a process that improves the molecular quality of the casting, increasing strength while ensuring that intricate shapes are achieved with absolute accuracy. Confirming the 1098 R's race specification by minimising weight and increasing performance, the crankshaft connecting rods are made in titanium saving 130g over the stock 1098 rods while reducing their reciprocating forces and improving crankshaft acceleration. Cam belt covers moulded in carbon fibre and cam covers cast in magnesium alloy complete the lightweight package. The result is a weight saving of 5.6kg (12.34lbs) over the 999R engine and 2.2kg (4.8lbs) less than the 1098.

The increased capacity of 1198.4cc is the product of a larger bore and stroke of 106 x 67.9mm and is fed through four titanium valves per cylinder and compressed to a ratio of 12.8:1. The valves, which are chrome nitride coated, have been increased in diameter by approximately 5% to 44.3mm for the inlet and 36.2mm for the exhaust. They are actuated by rocker arms that are super-finished for reduced friction and fatigue, and double overhead camshafts with radical profiles that achieve approximately 16% more lift than the standard 1098.

These incredible valve performances are only possible because of Ducati's unique Desmodromic system, where valve closure is activated mechanically. At high rpm it would be almost impossible for the valve to follow the steep closure profile of the cam lobe if it were relying upon a normal valve spring, but with the Desmo system the valve is mechanically closed with the same accuracy as it is opened, enabling steep cam profiles and radical cam timings. This system is used on every single Ducati motorcycle including our world-beating Desmosedici MotoGP bike.

The pistons utilise the same design developed for the Desmosedici in the Ducati MotoGP program by using a distinctive double-ribbed undercrown to achieve high strength with minimal piston wall surface area and, therefore, less friction. In this way, the 106mm RR58 alloy components are able to operate reliably at high rpm while delivering incredible performance.

The 1098 R elliptical throttle bodies have been increased 6.5% in size compared to the 1098, a diameter now equal to 63.9mm. For the first time on a road-going Ducati, twin injectors are used on each cylinder. The first centrally mounted injector feeds through a 4-hole nozzle while the second offset injector feeds through a 12-hole nozzle ensuring progressive and fluid power delivery throughout the rev-range. With this configuration the system has the capacity to provide much heavier fueling when used in competition.

The gearbox shares the same ratios as the 1098 and 1098 S, except for 3rd, 4th and 6th gear, which has a higher ratio so as to be able fully exploit the speed gained from the supplied race kit (for track use only) or additional performance modifications. Also with performance in mind and because of its high resistance to fatigue, the gears are machined from the same high-strength steel used in Ducati Corse race applications with 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th gears being subjected to a shot-peening treatment that further ensures their strength and reduced fatigue. The dry, multiplate 'slipper' clutch reduces the destabilising effect of aggressive downshifting and helps provide the fine control required when used under extreme track conditions.

The 1098 R uses a 2-1-2 exhaust system in 52mm-57mm diameter tubing with a wall thickness of 0.8mm (.030in) and terminates with Ducati's trademark twin under-seat mufflers beautifully formed in super lightweight titanium and stainless steel.