The Ducati 748  is nearly identical to the iconic Ducati 916 but with a smaller engine (and narrower rear wheel). That means sublime handling on smooth surfaces, terrible comfort, high running costs and a feel-good experience most other motorcycle can’t touch. Even well over a decade on few motorcycles match the simple, gorgeous curves of the Ducati 748.

Ride Quality & Brakes 4 out of 5

The Ducati 748's stability mid corner on the race track is phenomenal. It’s a motorcycle that makes fast cornering seem slower like the CGI scenes in The Matrix - that’s the magic of a great chassis. On a bumpy road or commuting through town, you’ll curse the tall first gear, stiff suspension and crippling wrist heavy riding position the Ducati 748 offers.

Engine 3 out of 5

For a 750cc sports motorcycle from Ducati, it’s not that fast. Around 90 genuine bhp at the rear wheel is less than the budget Kawasaki Z750. The Ducati 748 does deliver it in a satisfying, torquey manner which makes the most of the motorcycle's available grip. Vibration’s present but never intrusive. The Ducati 748 has a dry clutch, which sounds rattly.

Build Quality & Reliability 2 out of 5

Bought new and maintained by experts with a money-no-object approach problems would still arise with the Ducati 748. Get an abused motorcycle or skimp on maintenance and four figure bills will haunt your dreams and could become reality with this motorcycle. Check cam belt changes have been done and be aware rocker arms can fail.

Insurance, running costs & value 3 out of 5

Yes, you can get a faster motorcycle for less money. You can get a more reliable motorcycle for less money. You can get a more practical motorcycle for less money. But you’d be hard pushed to find anything with the charisma, cachet and feel good factor as an early Ducati 748. Cherished Ducati 748s may even appreciate. Find a Ducati 748 for sale.
Insurance group: 16 of 17 – compare motorcycle insurance quotes now.

Equipment 2 out of 5

The Ducati 748 scores a fat zero for luxury – but this is a race motorcycle on the road. Mirrors are terrible, comfort’s poor for most sizes of bikers – at least the instruments are clear and the fast idle beautifully crafted. Termignoni silencers (with the matching EPROM chip) are the top choice for the Ducati 748 and worth paying more for. Ducati paddock stands and dust covers add to the special feeling when you see this motorcycle in your garage.

source : www.motorcyclenews.com