Page 3
By Dan Coe
Images By Tom Riles

Electronics on the 998 are at least partially shared with the earlier, high performance 996SPS model. The 998 computer replaces the previous 996 CPU with a smaller, substantially faster and more precise processor. The Marelli 5.9 M CPU computer is capable of processing four times the amount of information as the older 1.6 unit, at two times the speed. It is now the size of a cell phone and weighs almost a pound less than the older unit. In previous model years, the computer unit was mounted under the seat. The 998 now places the CPU behind the side-mounted battery.

Other major engine changes include new, stronger die-cast engine cases, the addition of an oil jet to the vertical cylinder, removable valve covers and changed water pump. Cooling has been increased with a larger diameter impeller, increasing coolant flow by fifteen percent. The oil cooler has received an additional cell. The increase in volume is minimal but the change in cooling surface area is significant.

The 998 fairing has received aerodynamic changes. The heat extracting vents used on the earlier 996 have been filled-in, virtually leaving the cowling's sides void of openings. Only one small duct remains, used to supply incoming air to the clutch and surrounding area. To vent air from inside the cowl, small-screened sections have been added to both sides of the fairing, just below the fuel tank and in front of the rider's knees. The result of this change lets some heated air exit inside the rider's compartment while the majority of air vents directly out the rear of the machine. One would suspect that such changes were a result of wind tunnel testing and would be most apparent at higher speeds.

Ducati engineers focused much closer on the 998's engine than the chassis. The 996 uses a chassis that's fundamentally the same as Ducati's world championship Superbike, so the 998 shares the same running gear. Features include the adjustable steering head (an adjustment most suited for racetrack fine-tuning but a nice capability on your weekend weapon) and - equally unique to the line - a rear ride - height adjuster. Both rider and mechanic can appreciate the simplicity, adjustability and ease of accessibility with the single torque arm adjuster.

The rear brake remains unchanged on the 998 but the front brakes have been updated. The front disc rotors swept-area has been thinned .5 millimeters in an effort to reduce un-sprung weight. Other brake options remain available with both "S" and "R" versions, including a different master cylinder for the Bostrom, and rotors with greater offset for the "R" model.

Provisions for an accompanying passenger are now standard. A "bioposto" seat and easily removable foot pegs now grace the rear of the 998. Some advice, hold on tight!