Ducati has resurrected their Super Sports range in secret at the 2016 WDW, but the internet is buzzing with its spy pictures.
The folks at Ducati have set a tradition of unveiling new models at the World Ducati Week (WDW). In 2014, the private unveiling of the Scrambler was one of the worst kept secrets, with images and details spreading quickly across the internet. This year has been no different with the company trying to keep the new 2017 Ducati SuperSport a private affair only to be revealed to the fortunate people attending at Misano. However, someone managed to click a few spy pics for the world to see, allowing us to get a sneaky preview of the new entry level Ducati.
The new Ducati SuperSport is expected to be officially unveiled at the 2016 Milan Motorcycle show (EICMA) in November. The spy pics however give us a few details on the new baby Ducati. This new super sport is a retake on the original Ducati SS series from the late 90’s. Ducati will launch it as an entry level super-sport that provides a much-needed balance between performance and practicality, something that’s been missing from the current portfolio.
The new Ducati SuperSport is reminiscent of its big sisters, the Panigale 959 and 1299. Make no mistake though, the SS has its own character and design language. The fairings are brand new and the front cluster has been reworked. A set of aggressive new vents have been incorporated that merge with the headlights. The SS will use a conventional trellis frame, unlike the monocoque based Panigales. The new double headlamp housings are slick and razor sharp. These updates give the SuperSport a fresh and sophisticated look.
Powering this Ducati is an all new 937cc Testastretta L-twin motor based off the Hypermotard 939 L-twin. However, Ducati claims that 80% of the engine has been changed to suit the super-sport. Power on tap would be a modest 110 HP. The SuperSport S may have a few more ponies on tap.
Technical details are vague and we currently have no idea of Ducati’s plan regarding other engines. Nevertheless, we can expect the SS to pack Ducati’s latest electronics package. Three riding modes that manipulate the traction control and ABS will give three distinctive characters to this rather touring oriented super-sport.
Furthermore, the pictures reveal Brembo M4.32 monoblock callipers on 320mm semi-floating discs for the front brake setup and a 245mm single rear disc most likely to be Brembo as well. The suspension on the S model is a fully adjustable Ohlins setup for both front and rear. The standard bike would most likely feature an adjustable Sachs setup. The new bike is expected to have a rather softer and less aggressive setup to reflect its relaxed touring ergonomics.
The new Ducati SuperSport will revive a forgotten breed in the Ducati stables. This SuperSport will offer higher levels of comfort and practicality along with the signature Ducati charm and aura. It will also be more accessible, thanks to a lower price tag as compared to the 959 Panigale. Aimed to carve a niche for itself, the new Ducati SuperSport will add further depth to the already decadent Ducati portfolio.
Image credits: Motorcycle News
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