| 1994-98 Ducati 916 |
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| Performance |   |
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| Throttle response is manic and it vibrates more than an L-twin should, but the 916 motor is about power, everywhere from idle to five-digit revs. Though the 916's basic engine configuration — liquid cooling, fuel injection, and desmo four valve heads — had been introduced a full seven years earlier, the 916cc version remained capable enough (in modified form) to defeat 750cc four-cylinder racers and win the World Superbike title three years running. |
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| Handling | |
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| Refer to race results above. Single-sided swingarm and trellis frame are virtually flex-free, and the suspension used the best components available at the time. The half point off is only because the ride can be harsh and the handling awkward at normal road speeds. |
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| Looks | |
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| Though the 916 is mechanically no more than an upgraded 851/888, its stunning appearance places it in a completely different stratum than its somewhat cobby-looking predecessors. The 916 is tagged by many as the most beautiful motorcycle in history, and that's what makes it such a legendary Ducati icon. |
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| Reliability |  |
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| A highly stressed, low-volume, highly sophisticated weapon. Yet still respectably bulletproof, given its primary mission and race pedigree. |
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| Practicality | |
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| This bike trades civility, ease of use and affordability for performance capabilities you'll never exploit unless you are a professional racer. |
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| Desirability | |
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| Even in the rarified company of other Ducatis, the 916 stands out as a stunning fusion of form and function. Not just a success, but a legend. |
January 14th, 2010 at 3:25 pm
The 916 is NOT the ultimate Ducati….that would have to be the SUPERMONO!
January 14th, 2010 at 3:29 pm
I would be inclined to agree, except that the Supermono was only sold as a limited-production racer. The 916 remains the ultimate street legal, mass-produced Ducati, which is what this website is about.