DUCATI 1098 (2007 - 2009) Review

Highlights

  • A Ducati in its truest form
  • Stunning to ride and to look at
  • Class leading handling at the time

At a glance

Owners' reliability rating: 4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5)
Annual servicing cost: £570
Power: 160 bhp
Seat height: Medium (33.1 in / 840 mm)
Weight: Low (381 lbs / 173 kg)

Prices

New N/A
Used £6,400

Overall rating

Next up: Ride & brakes
5 out of 5 (5/5)

The Ducati 1098 was the motorcycle we’d been waiting for since the 916. It’s a Ducati in the truest form. Blood red, stunning to look at and absolutely pure in its purpose. It was a long time coming but Ducati had finally built a superbike that could run with the best - pure unadulterated sports bike heaven.

The 1098 was joined in 2008 by the Ducati 1098R, which was a limited-run homologation special built so Ducati could race in the World Superbike Championship. For 2009 the 1098 was replaced by the Ducati 1198.

Once you've finished reading this review and our owners' reviews, you can join the UK Ducati Forum or Ducati.org forums to talk to other enthusiasts.

In November 2010 there was a book published about the 1098/1198 family, published by Haynes and written by Marc Cook.

This bike is so good, in fact, that it made it into our expert guide to used bargain superbikes.

Watch: Ducati 1098 vs Ducati 999

Watch: Ducati 1098 vs its V-Twin rivals

Ride quality & brakes

Next up: Engine
5 out of 5 (5/5)

The Ducati 1098 is exquisite and makes you recalibrate what you thought was possible on a motorcycle.

The Ducati 1098's forks give amazing feedback, and combine that with a really neutral chassis (though perhaps not quite as quick to turn from side-to-side as some of the 1098's Japanese rivals) and you’ve got probably the best handling 1000-class road motorcycle of its time.

You can be clumsy with it, hang-off or not hang-off, it’s your choice and the Ducati 1098 will do exactly what you tell it, letting you bounce from kerb-to-kerb.

Watch Ducati 1098 track special

Engine

Next up: Reliability
5 out of 5 (5/5)

The Ducati 1098's Testastretta Evoluzione is the most powerful production V-twin motorcycle engine ever, making 160bhp and 92ftlb of torque at 8000rpm. The Ducati 999 Testastretta engine was completely redesigned from top to bottom.

Ducati 1098 exhaust

Pretty much every component in the Ducati 1098's engine has been changed and the bike has a huge increase in power from 3500rpm all the way to the redline over the 999.

Reliability & build quality

Next up: Value
4 out of 5 (4/5)

The Ducati 1098's build quality, fit and finish are sublime. At launch we didn't see any reason to worry about reliability.

Is a Ducati 1098 reliable? 

We've got seven Ducati 1098 owners' reviews on the site at present, and they're overwhelmingly positive. The overall rating is 4.4 out of 5 stars. The problems highlighted were mainly around costs, and in particular servicing and maintanence. There have been some reliability issues too.

2007-2009 Ducati 1098 used buyers' guide

The 1098 beneath me might be eight years old and have 8727 miles of life behind it, but the feeling is the same as when it first arrived on the scene.

Push the starter (a conventional button unlike the recessed unit on more modern Ducatis) and it thuds into life. I can sense almost every explosion as the Testastretta Evoluzione motor drones beneath me and the twin Termi pipes bark their intent.

This is a bike you just have to rev at a standstill and the LCD dash is lovely and clear in its display. A good solid handful of clutch (that fairly heavy feeling hasn’t gone away with miles) and you are away. As long as you don’t have to U-turn and find your thumbs trapped between the tank and the bars.

Ducati 1098 ridden by Jon Urry for MCN

You don’t ride a 1098, you plug into it. The seat is narrow and firm while the wide tank with its sharp edges is perfectly placed for knees to grip. As soon as you are moving the 1098 feels like it is just dying to show you its capabilities.

Smooth corners are demolished by this thoroughbred and the chassis and brakes remain impressive despite the passing years. It’s not as instantly agile as a Panigale, but it is considerably more relaxing to ride.

Wind on the gas and the 1099cc engine serves up a near-perfect blend of power and torque with a lazy nature that makes it deceptively fast. With a genuine 144bhp and 77ftlb of torque,
it’s a beautiful motor at any speed, except in town, where the underseat pipes can get hot and the heavy clutch annoying.

Common faults explored

This bike is the standard model, not the S, and therefore has more budget Showa suspension as opposed to Öhlins units. Oddly, this means less chance of oil leaks as it is generally the higher specification forks’ seals that let go if the bike is left standing.

Ducati 1098 side profile static image

Ducatis are generally very well looked after and this bike’s previous owner has used clear protective film on just about every panel to prevent stone chips ruining its looks. But this conservative approach has extended to the tyres, which are Michelin Pilot Road 3 sports-touring options rather than newer, sportier rubber. Considering it only has 8737 miles on it, so isn’t a high-miler, this seems an unusual choice of tyres. The bike turns over rapidly, so the battery would appear to be in tip-top condition and the sprag clutch isn’t squeaking. It is being sold with a nearly complete service history, which also bodes well.

Extras

Like many used Ducati sportsbikes, this one has an aftermarket double-bubble screen, and the tiny bolts that hold it in place don’t appear to have been rounded when it was replaced (replacements cost around £4 each). The knee grips on the tank look ugly but should be easy to remove without damaging the paint, and this bike comes with Termignoni pipes, which is a bonus. The standard pipes are not included but it is cheaper to buy a used set of OE cans on eBay than invest in Termis.

The Mechanic

John Burrows

Service Manager at Ducati Coventry
‘A brilliant day-to-day Ducati sportsbike’

The rear shock on a Ducati 1098

"The Ducati 1098 is a wonderful motorcycle and a really solid used buy as long as you purchase a good one. As with any Ducati, maintenance is key to owning a 1098 and although the new Evoluzione engine is far better built and more reliable than the old V-twin in the 916/996/998/999, it still needs to be looked after.

"Ducati increased the service intervals on the 1098 and while you still need to get it serviced every year (or 7500 miles) and the belts changed every two years, the valve clearances only need checking when it reaches 7500 miles (or a multiple of), irrespective of age.

"So if you only do 6000 miles in five years, you don’t need the valves touching, unlike on a Testastretta. Servicing is also cheaper on the 1098 compared to the older models. Because the Evoluzione is far easier to work on, a minor service costs around £250, a major with belts is £450 and valve clearances with a major service is £650.

"There are a few quirks on the 1098 that can be sorted out with good routine maintenance but can ruin the riding experience if left unchecked. The swingarm on early models collects water and can cause the lower shock mounting to rust, which is sorted by drilling a hole in the swingarm and ensuring the nut is lubed.

"The rear hub seizes up in the swingarm, but we remove it and grease it during a major service. Some owners go mad when tightening the rear pinch bolts, which can cause the swingarm to crack and also squash the hub, so always check this area for damage.

"The major Achilles’ Heels on the 1098 are the fuel pump and ignition relays, which fail regularly. We actually change them every service as they only cost £3.50 each. Also, if the dash is flickering then the chances are the rectifier is on its way out, but again, that’s not a major issue and is relatively cheap to swap. Finally, the fuel tank breather furs up, causing the tank to vacuum and the bike to lose power – another simple fix.

"Honestly, a well-looked-after 1098 will run as good as gold, they are a brilliant bike. If I was looking at a day-to-day Ducati sportsbike, I’d buy a 1098S. But I’d fit it with a Termi system as they respond brilliantly to being allowed to breathe properly…"

Value vs rivals

Next up: Equipment
4 out of 5 (4/5)

The same as any other Ducati, the 1098 needs careful looking after, regular dealer services and tucking away for the winter otherwise expect big bills.

Ducati 1098 motorcycle review - Front view

Equipment

4 out of 5 (4/5)

Although the Ducati 1098 is the basic version, Ducati's new dream motorcycle still isn't wanting for much, certainly not in terms of sports bike goodies. Suspension, brakes etc are all premier league on the Ducati 1098 and then there's the sublime datalogger dash and exquisite styling.

Ducati 1098 motorcycle review - Instruments

Specs

Engine size 1099cc
Engine type 8v 90-degree Desmo V-twin
Frame type Tubular steel trellis
Fuel capacity 15.5 litres
Seat height 840mm
Bike weight 173kg
Front suspension Preload, compression, rebound
Rear suspension Preload, compression, rebound
Front brake 2 x 330mm discs
Rear brake 245mm disc
Front tyre size 120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size 190/55 x 17

Mpg, costs & insurance

Average fuel consumption 40 mpg
Annual road tax £117
Annual service cost £570
New price -
Used price £6,400
Insurance group 17 of 17
How much to insure?
Warranty term Two year unlimited mileage

Top speed & performance

Max power 160 bhp
Max torque 90 ft-lb
Top speed 180 mph
1/4 mile acceleration 10.55 secs
Tank range 120 miles

Model history & versions

Model history

  • 2007: Ducati 1098 model launched.
  • 2008: Ducati 1098R launched as limited-run homologation special.
  • 2009: Ducati 1098 goes off sale, replaced by 1198.

Other versions

  • Ducati 1098S: Higher spec version with Ohlins suspension, uprated brakes and engine.

Owners' reviews for the DUCATI 1098 (2007 - 2009)

10 owners have reviewed their DUCATI 1098 (2007 - 2009) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.

Review your DUCATI 1098 (2007 - 2009)

Summary of owners' reviews

Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5 (4.5/5)
Ride quality & brakes: 4.8 out of 5 (4.8/5)
Engine: 4.9 out of 5 (4.9/5)
Reliability & build quality: 4.2 out of 5 (4.2/5)
Value vs rivals: 4 out of 5 (4/5)
Equipment: 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
Annual servicing cost: £570
4 out of 5
10 April 2021 by Michael Gregory

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £700

Much better with carbon wheels and quick shifter

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Not recommended for touring. About 100 miles in one go

Engine 5 out of 5

Sheer torque especially as I have lowered the gearing.

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5

Quick shifter and carbon wheels

Buying experience: Privatly

5 out of 5 Italian exotica.
18 December 2020 by Andrew Joyce

Version: 1098S

Year: 2007

Iconic styling, natural successor to the 998 series. Strong engine with 996SPS raw power delivery which was smoothed out on the 1198. Plenty available at sensible prices. Drop front sprocket to 14 tooth, this smooths out the low rpm ride ability. Quick shifter an essential upgrade.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

Riding position takes some getting used too. After a few miles you remember why you have this piece of Italian exotica.

Engine 5 out of 5

No dislikes, raw power delivery never disappoints.

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Garage stored but used in all weathers. ACF50 recommended if you want to keep in the best possible condition. Regular cleaning, but not with a pressure washer, good quality polish.

Value vs rivals 5 out of 5

As an ex employee of Ducati UK maintenance costs are kept to parts only. Genuine parts used. Belt service religiously done every 2 years for piece of mind.

Equipment 5 out of 5

Iconic styling. Quick shifter transforms the ride and for track users a slipper clutch is essential.

Buying experience: Bike bought 5 years ago, advertised at £6750 for a 6000 mile example. Absolute bargain for the joy it’s brought.

5 out of 5 Ducati 1098 impressions
20 November 2020 by Michael Gregory

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £750

Fitted carbon wheels makes a fantastic difference

Ride quality & brakes 3 out of 5

Single seat

Engine 5 out of 5

Instant revs with reduced gearing best mod after carbon wheels

Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5

Radiator leak expensive to fix

Value vs rivals 3 out of 5

Every thing Ducati is expensive

Equipment 4 out of 5

Gearing and wheels mods

Buying experience: Privatly

2 out of 5 Ducati 1098...if these Ducatis were good enough, poor 999 and earlier models owners.
06 April 2020 by J

Version: S

Year: 2007

Annual servicing cost: £250

The best is the riding performance. The worst, the running costs and reliability.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

The faster you go, the better it feels. A little hard on the rear.

Engine 4 out of 5

Love the torque and how you get into hiperspace when going over 6.000 rpm. Under 3.000 rpm it´s a little rough. Traveling at 6.000 rp,it uses about 6 l/100 km.

Reliability & build quality 2 out of 5

Engine broke down with 62.000 km. The horozontal cylinder broke down and both cylinders and pistons were already out of wear. Before that, the nut that holds the clutch got loose several times because the special shim was broken. Also the alarm antena got water inside everytime it rained so I had to loose the screws to get the antena closer to the key until I could change the antena. The previous owner race it up to 7.000 km but he told me the pistons and bearings were changed. At least 6 batteries because due to the heat it got dried and uncherged. Lithium battery and bettery switch and seems to have ended the problem. Also the wheel that gears with the electric starter broke down.

Value vs rivals 2 out of 5

It depend on the mileage. I got to do 30.000 km/year so very expensive as every 24.000 km the belts need to be changed. Although Ducati recommends the oil change every 12.000 km I would do it very 6.000 km. A 24.000 km revision cost at least 500 €.

Equipment 5 out of 5

No electronics appart from electronic injection so GREAT!!! Well the electronic security device but onces you chage the antena for the newer version, it does not break down.

Buying experience: Second hand

4 out of 5 Absolute animal
07 January 2017 by Stevie

Year: 2007

Totally brutal bike thats not for the faint hearted! It's not a bike you want to take into town but it's in it's elements in the country side in long twisty open roads!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5

The bike ride superb, handling is sublime, it pulls like a train and you've got to be careful or the front is in the air with a twist, and those Brembos! Wow! You need to take it easy to get used to how well the stop the bike! It's not a bike I'd like to, or ever will take touring, the V Twins rattle a fair bit through the handle bars.

Engine 5 out of 5

Slightly down on power compared to similar sized Jap bikes, but you'd never know, it feels more powerful with the hike in torque, but the sound! The Italians have nailed the best noise in the world! V Twin straight through Termignoni is a noise everyone should hear, and the probably do when you're out and about on one of these!

Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5

Build quality is excellent, better than any Jap bikes I had before, had one small issue with the clutch but it's a simple system so easy to fix. Starts first time every time I've pressed the ignition button.

Value vs rivals 4 out of 5

The only downside to owning a Ducati, running and servicing costs! It costs today, about £11 to fill the tank, and if I'm riding enthusiastically, after about 70 miles the light is on and I'm looking for another fuel stop, on a long run you're looking at about 90 miles to red light on. On servicing, to take it to a Ducati dealer, you're looking at around £800 for a major service, this includes cam belt, all oils and filters and shock absorber strip and rebuild with fresh oil, there are a few Ducati specialists about that might knock a couple of hundred off but parts along it'll cost around £250!

Equipment 5 out of 5

Only thing it could be doing with is a quick shifter, apart from that it's got everything you need a bike to do, it starts stops and goes, what more does a biker need?

5 out of 5 Amazing Sport twin
08 May 2009 by cmharris

I have a 2007 1098 base w/ 11,000 miles on the clock. I have owned Japanese in-line 4s and have enjoyed them tremendously, but the Ducati just speaks to my soul. The engine is so flexable you really only need 3rd gear for any situation from 30 to 125 mph. Nothing sounds better than a Duc up a canyon. She has enough to run with the big 4s but is exotic enough to stand out in a crowd. There is something very sensual about this bike. It's not the fastest nor the most powerful but after you ride her you don't care. The company has stood behind their machine and they have made all updates and recalls in a timely matter before I've had any problems. She will be the last sportbike I'll ever own period.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 1098S
01 December 2008 by

I have 1098S full Termis, tuned ohlins, and trick bits ta boot, all I can say is this bike is off the chart, I've owned nothing but jap sportsbikes for 15 years, sure jap bikes a awsome to but the 1098S is far and away superior, I know some may have few more pony's, but the way this bike does its thing keeps out front, the Chassis is a revelation, nothing gives feedback like this chassis. Finally Ducati have a street bike that will eat jap bikes, Well Done.

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Ducati 1098
13 December 2007 by ducati1098

Fantastic bike with looks to die for, pulling power of engine is very stong and sounds fantastic even on standard exhaust. Gear change is very slick I would rate as good as GSXR range. Comfy also (for a sports bike)overall very happy only owned bike for 2 months so had limited use so far (hence not given top rating to reliability just yet fingers are crossed)dealer service and back up also best I have ever had eg bike delivered for me from 100 miles away free, dubble bubble fitted free of charge,and sales staff friendly etc first rate bike and service from Ducati. Minor issues standard screen very low even for me at F510, still not a GSXR1000 beater but thats not everything with a bike like the Ducati overall amazing bike

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 I love mine!
12 March 2007 by TexasKid

After owning many japanese bikes (and loving every one of them) I finally stepped up to the Ducati 1098. I couldn't have made a better decision. Handling, brakes, power delivery, styling...everything on this bike is exceptional. The boys in Italy really have outdone themselves with this one! Flicks around curners easier than an R6, pulls stronger than a Hayabusa...stops on a dime and looks like it's going 100mph when standing still. But then comes the respect...owning an italian machine is something everyone should experience...I can't explain it. "It is so choice. If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up." -Matthew Broderick, Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
5 out of 5 Your facts are wrong
03 March 2007 by nsm3

The 1098s doesn't have an uprated engine or brakes!

Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Equipment 4 out of 5
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