The
Ducati 748 is one of the most recognisable sport bikes ever
created. The definitive 'R' version of the 748 introduced in
1999 was a high performance, track tuned, race ready machine
which took off where the 748SPS left off.
Compared to the standard Ducati 748 the 748R had a more powerful
engine, superior suspension and brakes, lightweight wheels and
carbon fiber
fairing sections.
The 748R was used as a race homologation bike for the World
Supersport and World Superbike series.
The engine of the 748R had larger valves, more extreme camshafts,
stronger titanium conrods and a larger airbox when compared
to the standard 748.
The Ducati 996 race bike based
steel trellis
frame was complemented by titanium-nitride coated Showa
forks and Ohlins rear monoshock. The wheels were lightweight
Marchesini units.
Although the 748R is great on the road, it comes into its own
on the track.