[Ducati] My thoughts on the new Ducati 848

[Ted & Vicki Brisbine]

I've been waiting to see how Ducati will price the 848 in the US.  With the 1098 now up to $16,000 and the 848 selling for $3000 less than that, the 848 looks like an incredible bargain.  I can't believe Ducati is making much profit on it relative to their other bikes.  Production cost must be nearly as high as the 1098 and I doubt they will make it up in volume.

I understand the lament for a simple air-cooled 1100 SS model but looking at the price of the other air-cooled models it would probably sell for at least $12,000.  How many could they sell when a much hotter 848 could be had for an extra $1000?  Right now we have the choice of looking to Ducati's past with the Sport 1000S for $12,495 or the current state-of-the-art in affordable Ducati sport bikes at $12,995.  I think the 848 will outsell the Sport by a ton.  I'd say the 848 is the new SS and the new 748/9 rolled into one.  Accounting for inflation is it any more expensive than a 900 SS was?  It probably is going to be more reliable and just as easy to own and maintain.  This is progress.  I want one.
Ted