Handling - Chassis and Suspension
Advanced chassis
The 848 and 1098 chassis and suspension have received the same detailed study and performance first priority approach. The goal was to achieve considerable weight saving while building-in strength and rigidity to manage the new high-powered Testastretta Evoluzione engine. Each and every component not only contributes to achieving superior road holding and stability, but when assembled, become a system with value far greater than the sum of all its parts.
Trellis frame
Developed in cooperation with Ducati Corse, the Trellis frame has been designed with a simplified tube layout featuring main section tubes increased in diameter from 28mm to 34mm, while being reduced in thickness from 2mm to 1.5mm. The result is a 14% increase in rigidity and a weight saving of 1.5kg (3.3lbs).
Single-sided swingarm
Our engineers were encouraged to re-think the construction technique for a single-sided swingarm. The solution was to produce the main operational components using individual aluminium castings so as to ensure strength around the pivot points, wheel hub and suspension links, with fabricated aluminium sections used to complete the construction into a single, beautifully engineered component.
Rear suspension
The new lightweight Trellis frame and single-sided swingarm have enabled a more compact and further weight-saving rear suspension linkage system that features separate lower pick-up points for the push-rod and suspension unit. This 'tandem' design effectively reduces stress around the linkage pick-up area of the Trellis frame. Working together with this highly efficient linkage is a fully adjustable Showa single shock for the 848 and 1098, while an incredible Öhlins shock is used for the 1098 S. Furthermore, the 1098 and 1098 S rear suspension system has an adjustable rear ride-height, independent of spring pre-load and other suspension settings, valuable when seeking the perfect set-up for personal riding style or track conditions.
Front suspension
Both the 848 and 1098 feature fully adjustable 43 mm Showa forks, with
special low friction Titanium Oxide-treated sliders on the 1098, and
the spectacular 43 mm Öhlins, with low friction Titanium
Nitride-treated sliders on the 1098 S. Both front suspension solutions
have radial brake caliper mountings and are professionally track-tuned
to offer superior road holding. As a result, they deliver incredible
feedback and help every rider to be more confident and in control.
