748, 748S, 748R

[virgil]

OK, guys...think I know the diffrence between a standard and an 'S' 748...better suspension...

Is that pretty much just it?

Also how does the R vary compared to an S?

Need to replace my 748 but more Rs about than Ss...

Also does the same ring tue for all the other models...996, 998, 749. 999 etc, etc.

Cheers for any help.

Virgil.

[anonymous-user]

The 'R' models have always been another step up again from the 'S' models - better spec forks, rear shock, as well as carbon fairings, etc. (usually if not always), limited production run, I believe lighter wheels. Also the engines were different, for example, the 998R was in fact the new 999cc engine and not a 998cc. Ducati tended to put their best engines in the 'R' models which would eventually filter down to the lower-spec bikes. I believe the last 999BP bike actually had more power than the original 999R as the engine was gradually passed down the line. As well as the better specs I guess there is also more kudos to owning an 'R' model than a BP or 'S', partly due to availability (was the 999R one of the bikes only available to order on-line?).

[virgil]

The S has better forks...but are there better than Ohlins on the R?

I can belive the R has better engine etc though...

[anonymous-user]

I knew I'd get something wrong! Yes - the Ohlins is the best and I think the "R' model might use the same as the 'S'. Hey ho!!

[Dakkon]

On early 748's the SP was the equivalent of the later R

[yellowvette]

When i was buying my 748 SPS new in 1998, I went to the lengths of calling the then importer direct to check exactly what I was getting for the extra over a Bip. I can't remember the full list, but it included: Titanium conrods, different ecu mapping that made the bike revvier (it has less midrange put more top end than a BiP), higher compression ratio, Brembo Goldline calipers with fully floating front brake discs (as opposed to semi-floating), Ohlins rear shock instead of Showa (though the front forks were still Showa on the 748SPS), a set of Termi race cans and race ecu chip (supplied seperately in a box), a single seat with aluminium subframe rather than steel, an indoor bike cover, and a rear paddock stand. I think there were one or 2 other things but you get the idea.
Basically, the SPS was designed to be that bit more track ready from the showroom than the Bip. And it cost then more than a 996 Bip !!