Ducati Unveils 2011 848 EVO, Claims Most Power in Class

by Jeremy Korzeniewski (RSS feed)
Jul 23rd 2010 at 6:02PM

2011 Ducati 848 EVO – Click above for high-res image gallery

Ducati has managed to refine its already formidable middleweight sportbike for 2011 by adding more power via all new cylinder heads, pistons, throttle bodies and camshafts. According to the Italian manufacturer, horsepower is up six ponies to 140, which, when coupled with the 369 claimed weight, means the new 848 EVO is the most powerful bike in its class and even has a better power-to-weight ratio than the 2005 999.

Other top-level components include the massive Brembo Monobloc front braking calipers and a cross-mounted steering stabilizer, both of which are said to have been developed through racing feedback. The bike should get its official unveiling this weekend from the MotoGP race in California and sales are slated to begin later this summer. Asking price stands at $12,995 for the blacked-out Dark Edition or $13,995 in bright Ducati Red.

Gallery: 2011 Ducati 848 EVO

[Source: Ducati]

PRESS RELEASE

DUCATI ANNOUNCES THE 848EVO SUPERBIKE

New for 2011, the 848EVO is the year's most significant middleweight sport bike

Cupertino, Calif. (20 July 2010) – Ducati proudly announces today the most powerful middleweight sport bike on the market; the 2011 Ducati 848EVO Superbike.

The new Ducati 848EVO is the pinnacle of sport bike engineering, designed to be the leader in the middleweight class. Weighing only 369 pounds and propelled by 140 horsepower and 72 lb/ft of torque, it is the most powerful motorcycle in its category.

The 848EVO is based upon Ducati's best ever selling middleweight Superbike- the 848. Along with the "EVO" designation comes a significant amount of upgrades based on AMA Pro Racing feedback and consumer demand.

At the heart of the 848EVO is the Testastretta Evoluzione engine, significantly redesigned for a higher power output. All new cylinder heads, pistons, throttle bodies and camshafts combine for a forceful output of 140hp @ 10,500rpm and 72.3 lb/ft of torque @9,750rpm. All of this significant engine performance is wrapped in new black cylinder cases.

In addition to the more powerful engine, the 848EVO's chassis and braking systems have been upgraded. A cross-mounted steering damper has been added for greater control of the steering system, and the welcome addition of Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP tires will ensure maximum grip while delivering every last horsepower to the asphalt.

The 848EVO receives a massive upgrade to the braking system in the form of Brembo Monobloc calipers. These single-piece calipers are machined from solid alloy and achieve a higher rigidity and resistance to distortion during extreme braking. The resulting increase in hydraulic efficiency not only delivers incredible braking power, but also provides an enhanced and precise 'feel' at the brake lever.

All this combines to form the most potent, powerful and lightweight middle class sport bike available; both for the road or race track usage. For 2011, a special "Dark" version will be available; which unlike "Dark" editions of Ducati's past will be a truly black bike from front to rear, giving the motorcycle an aggressive look and attitude.

The Ducati 848EVO Superbike will be available in North American Ducati Dealerships at the end of August, 2010. Impressively, MSRP will remain unchanged from the 2010 848 it replaces: $12,995 for the "Dark" edition, and $13,995 for Ducati Red.