Ducati 998 On-Track Review

Bike: 2002 Ducati 998 Biposto
Camera: GoPro Hero 8 Black Edition
Software: DaVinci Resolve
Music: 0:40-0:52 Kurt – Cheel, 1:27-1:53 Alex-Productions – Glory; 5:58-6:30 DJ KIDY – Sunlight (KIDY Remix) & some beautiful Termignoni exhaust sound ;)
Photos: PHOTO-BK.COM

The 916 series is widely known as one of the most successful runs of race-bikes of all time. What is less known is that its final iteration, the Ducati 998, didn’t win the World Superbike title, losing out narrowly to Colin Edwards on the Honda VTR1000 SP2in 2002. In order to keep up with the competition, Ducati introduced a radical new design the very next year, the 999.

That begs the question: How good is the 998 on track? In this review, I explore the pros and cons of the final hooray of the 916 from a modern perspective. I take a look at its handling, engine & electronics to find out how well this legendary Ducati superbike still holds up today. My basis is a number of track days at Hockenheimring.

As always: Tell me what you think in the comments and share your experiences!