2006 Ducati 749 Testastretta
Ducati 749 Bike Overview
Even the best can make mistakes from time to time. And Ducati definitely made a bit of a boo-boo when the time came to replace its evocative 916/748 Superbike range in 2003. The 916, designed by Massimo Tamburini, is generally regarded as the most beautiful bike ever produced, but its replacement – the 999 and 749 models ended up with a face only a mother could love.
In this case, the 'mother' was South African designer Pierre Terblanche, who'd established his distinctive design language with the previous 900SS reboot in 1999. He turned the slick dual headlight of the 916 into a vertical stacked arrangement, added large slab-sided fairing panels and generally took the Ducati Superbike range into a totally different direction in terms of style.
The styling might be controversial, but the 749 is a delight to ride. The motor is a little down on peak bhp, but gives a torquier 'big twin' power delivery. It's the chassis which is the real winner though. It feels low, long and stable, but is also nimble and easy to turn. Plump for the 'S' or exotic 'R' versions and you get progressively fancier Öhlins suspension units, giving loads of adjustment options for all riding styles.
Braking is immense, thanks to four-piston Brembo calipers, though they are old-school conventional mount units rather than radial mount on the base and 'S' models.
The 'R' is the one to go for if you can. The engine is overhauled for more peak power, the suspension is Öhlins all round, and it comes with a carbon fibre fairing and radial-mount brake calipers. Look for the numbered plaque on the top yoke.
Early bikes are less powerful and a little less reliable, so stick to later models if you can. Check servicing history carefully for things like cam belt changes and desmodromic valve lash adjustment – these need an experienced hand, so look for specialist garage stamps.
Ducati fixed its error in 2008, when it replaced the 999/749 range with the new 1098 and 848 models. These were much closer to the 916 in terms of styling, and proved an instant hit for the Bologna firm.
Nowadays, the 999 and 749 are both creeping back up in terms of popularity. The styling has grown on many riders, and the good price/spec ratio makes them a smart buy, and a possible future classic.
Watch the Ducati 749 in action…
Ducati 749 Bike Spec
- Top speed 149mph
- Weight (Dry) 188kg
- Average fuel consumption 50 mpg
- Capacity 748 cc
- Seat height 780mm
- Engine Four stroke, DOHC, 4v
Source: https://www.devittinsurance.com/bike-reviews/ducati/ducati-749/
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