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Styling And Design
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When Ducati released the 999 in 2003, along came its lesser sibling, the 749. Mounted to a stunning trellis frame, the 749 could at first glance be easily mistaken for a 999. Its exhaust system sits under a nicely sculpted tailpiece, whilst rear indicators and reg plate are integrated compactly into it. Towards the front twin horizontally placed headlights sit alongside a pair of twin air scoops. Colour opts come in a choice of red, yellow or black (Dark model), and rims a standard sapphire colour. With the arrival of the all new 1098 will we see a revised 749 for 2008? Heres hoping. |
| + 999 Looks - Update required |
| Score: 7/10 |
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Performance
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Once this Duke picks itself off the floor and gathers some speed, its happier pulling well from the midrange all the way to about 10000RPM, where it tapers off quite quickly. 107bhp at the rear wheel may sound slightly weak by 2007 supersport standards, though in twin terms thats a hell of alot. Its torque to midrange power pickup is astounding; no matter how deep or out of shape you come into a corner, it’l send you out smooth and quickly. Nimble through the traffic, and notably smooth on power delivery in the wet. |
| + Exotic feel - Twin trouble |
| Score: 8/10 |
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Ride And Handling |
On first ride the 749 can be unsettling. Its race based setup, close space handlebars and high sitting rear section feels daunting, though a few hour-s and apex’s later you’ll certainly get to grips with it! Both the 749 Dark and base model sport 43mm USD showa forks, backed up by a rear Sachs Monoshock. The front 320mm discs offer superb stopping power, powered by twin caliper brembo pots. |
| + Superbly Smooth - Could be lighter |
| Score: 8/10 |
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Comfort |
Significantly more comofortable in comparison with its supersport rivals. Ride height and position is universal, though not reccomeded to riders of a bigger build. Handlebars are positioned tight to tht tank, though provide enough leverage to flick it from one corner to next without any dramatics. One of the easiest bikes to climb across and move around on, saddle’s hard as a rock though. |
| + Spacious - Rock of a saddle |
| Score: 5/10 |
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