Ducati Superbike 848 - 2008 Specifications and Reviews

The 2008 Ducati Superbike 848 is an accessible middleweight sportbike designed for riders seeking authentic Ducati performance without the intimidation factor of larger superbikes. Known for its responsive handling, lightweight agility, and distinctive L-twin character, the 848 bridges the gap between beginner-friendly and serious track capability. Its manageable power delivery and compact dimensions make it ideal for both road and circuit work.

2008
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General information

CategorySport
Year2008
ModelDucati Superbike 848

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Exhaust systemLightweight 2-1-2 system with catalytic converter and lambda probe. Twin stainless steel mufflers
ClutchWet multiplate with hydraulic control
Transmission type,final driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
Fuel controlDesmodromic valve control
Fuel systemInjection. Marelli electronic fuel injection, elliptical throttle bodies.
Bore x stroke94.0 x 61.2 mm (3.7 x 2.4 inches)
Compression12.0:1
Torque96.00 Nm (9.8 kgf-m or 70.8 ft.lbs) @ 8250
Power134.00
Engine typeV2, four-stroke
Capacity:849.40 ccm (51.83 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter245 mm (9.6 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter320 mm (12.6 inches)
Front brakesDouble disc
Rear tyre dimensions180/55-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspension travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear suspensionProgressive linkage with fully adjustable Showa monoshock. Aluminium single-sided swingarm
Front suspension travel127 mm (5.0 inches)
Front suspensionShowa 43 mm fully adjustable upside-down fork
Rake (fork angle)24.5°
Frame typeTubular steel Trellis frame in ALS 450
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity15.50 litres (4.10 gallons)
Wheelbase1,430 mm (56.3 inches)
Seat height830 mm (32.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.7976 HP/kg
Dry weight168.0 kg (370.4 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay
Color optionsRed - Red - Black, Pearl White - Racing Grey - Black
StarterElectric

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

134 hp
Peak Power
3.2s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track90%
City35%
Cornering95%
Daily Riding30%
Touring25%
Passenger20%

Rider Profile

Best ForThis bike suits experienced riders who are comfortable with a sharp-throttled, high-revving V-twin superbike.
PurposeBuilt primarily for spirited backroad riding and track days where its light weight and agility can be fully exploited.
Rider FitThe aggressive riding position, high seat, and firm suspension demand a fit rider willing to tolerate wrist and wrist and back strain on longer rides.
CharacterA raw, mechanical, and characterful middleweight superbike that rewards precise inputs with razor-sharp handling and strong Desmodromic V2 punch.
Not Ideal ForThis is not the right choice for new riders, commuters seeking comfort, or anyone planning long-distance touring or off-road use.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

2008 Ducati Superbike 848 Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 830mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with balls of both feet on the 2008 Ducati Superbike 848, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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⚠ Safety Recalls (2)

EQUIPMENT Apr 2014 · 14E012000

Ohlins Racing AB (Ohlins) is recalling certain steering dampers kits manufactured with an incorrectly machined bracket. These dampers were sold for use as aftermarket equipment on Yamaha R1, R6, and FZ6, Suzuki TL1000 R and GSX1300R, Honda CB600RR, and Ducati Monster 1000, 748, 848, 916, 996, and 998 motorcycles. Also included are universal steering damper kits with part numbers SD 000 through SD 005. The affected brackets may crack.

Risk: If there is a crack in the steering bracket, at low speeds it may cause the steering to lock, leading to personal injury or a crash.

Remedy: Ohlins will notify the distributors and provide their customers with a new bracket. The recall began in November 2013. Owners may contact Ohlins USA at 1-828-692-4525. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 13E-034.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR Dec 2008 · 08V638000

DUCATI IS RECALLING 7,130 MY 2007-2008 1098, 1098S, 1098 TRICOLORE, 1098R, AND MY 2008-2009 848 MOTORCYCLES. THE MOTORCYCLE CHARGING SYSTEM MAY BE ADVERSELY AFFECTED BY ENGINE HEAT AND STOP OPERATING. THIS RESULTS IN DAMAGE TO THE VOLTAGE REGULATOR AND ENSUING BATTERY DISCHARGE.

Risk: THIS CAN RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE MOTORCYCLE AND A POTENTIAL HAZARD TO THE RIDER, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE VOLTAGE REGULATOR, INSTALL A HEAT GUARD BETWEEN THE VOLTAGE REGULATOR AND THE ENGINE EXHAUST SYSTEM, AND INSTALL A MODIFIED BATTERY SUPPORT. THE RECALL WILL BEGIN ON DECEMBER 24, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DUCATI AT 1-800-231-6696.

Source: NHTSA. View all Ducati recalls →

Rider Reviews

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