Road Wrecks And Rockets
Ducati is synonymous with style and innovation, but even legends have off days. Over the years, the brand has delivered two-wheeled masterpieces that redefined motorcycling, alongside a few forgettable flops that fell short in catastrophic ways. If you're looking to buy one or are just curious, we're here to spotlight the bikes that earned Ducati a cult following and the ones that made enthusiasts scratch their helmets. Let’s begin with the disasters!
1. Ducati Diavel
The original Diavel gained attention for its muscle-cruiser looks. However, it quickly frustrated riders with its excessive 516-pound curb weight. Low-speed maneuvering felt more like wrestling than riding. Also, electrical glitches, including voltage regulator failures, frequently disrupted the dashboard and lights.
2. Ducati Multistrada 1200 (First Generation)
Riders expected versatility from the first-gen Multistrada 1200 but encountered recurring electrical faults. Wiring loom defects and rectifier issues became common dealer visits. Adding to the frustration, the stiff suspension and uncomfortable riding posture made long-distance touring a chore.
3. Ducati Hypermotard 1100
At 33.3 inches, the tall seat alienated shorter riders right out of the gate. Though the suspension was designed for sporty performance, it punished riders on uneven roads. With a tiny 3.3-gallon fuel tank and minimal wind protection, longer trips were exhausting.
4. Ducati 1198 (Early Models)
Early versions of the 1198 suffered frequent overheating in urban settings, which made stop-and-go traffic nearly unbearable. Owners also battled clutch issues that required costly attention. The bike’s aggressive geometry demanded rider experience, and so beginners found it punishing.
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5. Ducati ST4
The ST4 entered the sport-touring scene with weight and handling that lagged behind rivals. Riders widely reported instrument cluster malfunctions and other electrical gremlins. Despite decent performance, the design looked dated, and maintenance outweighed the bike’s value in a competitive segment.
6. Ducati Monster 695
Positioned as an entry-level Ducati, the Monster 695 still burdened owners with high service costs. Early fuel injection glitches further created hesitation and inconsistent performance. The suspension package also limited cornering confidence, and repeated electrical faults caused reliability concerns that were hard to overlook.
7. Ducati 999
Pierre Terblanche’s radical design split Ducati’s fanbase and remains one of the brand’s most polarizing choices. Casual riders found its responsive handling difficult to tame. Fuel pump problems and persistent electrical faults marred the riding experience, and ownership costs didn’t help its case.
8. Ducati 620 Monster
Ducati pitched the 620 Monster as a beginner-friendly option, yet its 60-hp output felt uninspired. Budget components in the suspension and braking system capped its performance. Frequent fuel delivery and electrical issues made reliability an issue, and refinement lagged far behind its larger siblings.
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9. Ducati 848 (Early Models)
Initial 848s faced technical headaches such as camshaft and timing chain problems. Riders noted the stiff suspension made daily riding less forgiving. The electronics lacked sophistication and rider aids, which left even seasoned enthusiasts wishing for features found in rival bikes at the time.
10. Ducati 750SS
Revered for its racing legacy, the 750SS struggled to keep pace with modern reliability and comfort standards. Producing just 64 horsepower, it struggled by today’s benchmarks. Its outdated components made it more of a museum piece than a daily street bike.
After sifting through Ducati’s mechanical missteps, it’s time to hit the other end of the throttle. The next 10 machines ripped past expectations.
1. Ducati Panigale V4
In this, a 1103 cc Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine generates 216 horsepower with silky smooth power delivery that thrills without punishing. Its advanced electronics suite, such as cornering ABS and traction control, makes high-speed riding feel reassuringly planted. Here’s one of the finest superbikes available for both road and track.
2. Ducati Monster 1200 S
Unlike its earlier cousins, users praised this version for its balance of power and agility. Packing a 1198 cc Testastretta engine, the Monster 1200 S delivers 147 horsepower in a rider-friendly package. Premium Öhlins suspension further enhances its ride quality while retaining urban usability.
3. Ducati Multistrada V4
The Multistrada V4 features a 1158 cc Granturismo engine that produces 170 horsepower and still prioritizes long-distance comfort. Ducati introduced radar-assisted adaptive cruise control, a first for motorcycles, to make touring smarter and safer.
4. Ducati 916
With its gorgeous single-sided swingarm, razor-sharp handling, and 114 hp V-twin power, this model stunned the world. Multiple World Superbike titles proved it wasn’t just a pretty face. Today, it's a collectible legend; an icon of '90s motorcycle engineering and Italian design.
5. Ducati Scrambler Icon
The Scrambler Icon combines retro charm with modern dependability through an approachable 803 cc L-twin engine. Its light frame and smooth controls make it ideal for new riders navigating city streets or trails. Affordability and aftermarket options keep it a fan-favorite entry into Ducati ownership.
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6. Ducati 1299 Panigale
Here’s one of Ducati’s most powerful twin-cylinder bikes. The 1285 cc Superquadro twin produces 205 horsepower, and outstanding electronics and dynamic suspension help translate all that muscle into precise, exhilarating handling. It set the benchmark for superbikes during its production run.
7. Ducati Streetfighter V4
This stripped-down superbike roars with a 1103 cc engine producing 214 hp—fierce power in a street-ready frame. With upright ergonomics and advanced rider aids, it brings superbike aggression to everyday riding. Riders love its thrilling mix of brute force and refined control.
DUCATI STREETFIGHTER V4 FIRST RIDE & REVIEW by FastLane
8. Ducati Paul Smart 1000 LE
Built as a tribute to Ducati's 1970s racing glory, the Paul Smart 1000 LE blends vintage styling with capable modern engineering. Its 1000 cc air-cooled engine and limited production run make it a prized collectible and a beautiful intersection of heritage and performance.
9. Ducati Hypermotard 950 SP
This hooligan machine thrives on tight corners and sharp acceleration thanks to its 937 cc Testastretta engine and lightweight chassis. High-spec Öhlins components and supermoto-inspired styling are the reason it’s eye-catching. Riders love its playful spirit and daily usability.
10. Ducati Diavel 1260 S
The Diavel 1260 S offers cruiser comfort paired with 157 horsepower of Testastretta DVT muscle. Its muscular silhouette hides sophisticated electronics like cornering ABS and multiple ride modes. Here’s a rare blend of brute force and refined ride—equal parts show and go.
2020 Ducati Diavel 1260S with Ohlins only 924 miles! by KAPLAN AMERICA
