Are you torn between the Ducati 749 and the 749S? You’re not alone. Both models pack a punch with their sleek designs and powerful performance, making it tough to choose the right one for your riding style.
Imagine cruising down the open road, feeling the wind against your face as you decide which bike fits your needs best. This article breaks down the key differences between the two, helping you make an informed choice. By the end, you’ll know exactly what sets the 749 apart from the 749S, ensuring you pick the perfect ride for your next adventure.
Key Takeaways
- Engine Performance: The Ducati 749 features a 98-horsepower engine, while the 749S upgrades to 103 horsepower for enhanced acceleration and responsiveness.
- Suspension Differences: The 749 comes with standard Showa suspension, whereas the 749S boasts premium Öhlins components, offering superior handling and stability.
- Weight and Agility: The lighter 749, at 378 pounds, provides greater agility, while the 749S, weighing 388 pounds, offers better stability at high speeds.
- Distinct Design Elements: Both bikes showcase iconic Ducati styling, but the 749 has a minimalist look, while the 749S offers more aggressive aesthetics and aerodynamic features.
- Pricing Considerations: The 749 starts at an MSRP of around $10,500, while the 749S is priced at approximately $12,500, reflecting its enhanced features.
- Resale Value Insights: The 749 generally holds stable resale values around $7,000, while the 749S is more desirable among enthusiasts, averaging resale prices of $9,000 to $10,000.
Overview of Ducati 749 and 749S
The Ducati 749 and 749S stand out for their design and performance, each targeting different rider preferences. Understanding their distinctions helps you make a more informed choice.
Key Differences
- Engine Performance: Both models feature a 749cc L-twin engine. The 749S offers higher horsepower, providing a more thrilling ride.
- Suspension Setup: The 749 utilizes standard components, while the 749S features upgraded Ohlins suspension. This enhances handling and ride quality on the 749S.
- Weight: The 749 generally weighs slightly less, making it more agile in tight corners. The 749S, while heavier, compensates with improved stability at speed.
- Braking System: Both bikes come with powerful braking systems, but the 749S tends to feature higher-spec components, providing faster deceleration.
- Design Attributes: Both bikes showcase Ducati’s signature styling, characterized by sharp lines and aggressive stance. Their aesthetics appeal to sport bike enthusiasts.
- Chassis and Frame: The trellis frame design is a hallmark of both models, ensuring rigidity and lightweight performance.
- Riding Position: You’ll notice a similar sporty riding position, catering to riders who enjoy a connected feel with the bike during racing or spirited rides.
- Technology: Standard features like the dry clutch system and digital instrumentation appear in both models, enhancing the riding experience.
By identifying these key differences and shared features, you gain a clearer picture of how the Ducati 749 and 749S cater to diverse riding experiences.
Performance Comparison
The performance comparison between the Ducati 749 and 749S highlights key differences that impact your riding experience.
Engine Specifications
The Ducati 749 features a liquid-cooled, 748cc L-twin engine, producing around 98 horsepower. This engine ensures a solid performance that suits most riders. In contrast, the 749S upgrades the engine to provide approximately 103 horsepower, offering a more exhilarating ride. The extra horsepower in the 749S translates into quicker acceleration and a more responsive throttle, making it ideal for those eager for a bit more thrill.
Handling and Stability
Handling varies between the two models due to their suspension setups. The standard 749 uses a Showa suspension system, which offers decent handling for everyday riding. The 749S, however, comes equipped with premium Öhlins components that significantly enhance cornering stability and control. This upgraded suspension setup allows the 749S to perform better on twisty roads, providing you with confidence at higher speeds. The differences in weight also play a role. The 749 weighs around 378 pounds, while the 749S is slightly heavier at approximately 388 pounds. The lighter 749 feels more agile but may exhibit less stability during aggressive maneuvers compared to the more planted 749S.
Design and Aesthetics
The design and aesthetics of the Ducati 749 and 749S play crucial roles in each bike’s appeal. Both models boast Ducati’s iconic styling, but they feature distinct elements that set them apart.
Styling Differences
You’ll notice that the Ducati 749 has a more minimalist approach, highlighting its lightweight frame and sharp lines. The fairings exude a sleek look, reflective of its racing heritage. In contrast, the 749S embraces a more aggressive design, showcasing additional aerodynamic bodywork. It comes with exclusive color options and graphics, making it stand out even more on the road.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics matter for comfort during rides. The 749 offers a sporty riding position that suits daily use, with foot pegs positioned for a balanced frame. In contrast, the 749S has slightly higher foot pegs and a more forward-leaning seat, enhancing performance during aggressive rides. Both models provide adequate comfort for longer journeys, but the 749S leans toward the performance side, appealing to those who prioritize sport riding.
Pricing and Value
Understanding pricing and value helps you make an informed choice between the Ducati 749 and the 749S. Both models offer unique advantages, but their costs differ significantly.
MSRP Comparison
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Ducati 749 typically starts around $10,500. The 749S, with its enhanced features and performance upgrades, has an MSRP starting closer to $12,500. This price difference reflects the 749S’s advanced components, including the Öhlins suspension and increased horsepower. When considering your budget, think about which features matter most to you and if the price increase aligns with your riding goals.
Resale Value
Resale value often highlights the long-term worth of a motorcycle. The Ducati 749 generally maintains a stable resale value due to its classic appeal and solid performance. You might see average resale prices around $7,000 for well-maintained models. The 749S typically commands a higher resale price, averaging around $9,000 to $10,000, thanks to its premium specifications and desirability among enthusiasts. If investment potential influences your decision, both models present good options, but the 749S offers slightly better resale value due to its exclusive features and performance reputation.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Ducati 749 and 749S ultimately comes down to your riding style and preferences. If you crave a lightweight and agile bike for everyday use the 749 might be your best bet. On the other hand if you’re after a more powerful ride with premium features the 749S could be the perfect match.
Both models offer stunning design and exhilarating performance so you can’t go wrong with either. Take your time to weigh the differences and consider what aspects matter most to you. Whichever you choose you’re in for a thrilling experience on the road. Happy riding!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Ducati 749 and 749S?
The main differences lie in engine performance, suspension setup, and weight. The 749S offers approximately 103 horsepower versus the 749’s 98 horsepower. The 749S features upgraded Öhlins suspension for better handling, while the 749 is lighter at around 378 pounds, making it more agile.
Which model has better handling?
The Ducati 749S has superior handling due to its premium Öhlins suspension components, enhancing cornering stability and control, especially on twisty roads. The standard 749 uses Showa suspension, which is sufficient for everyday riding but does not match the 749S’s performance in aggressive scenarios.
How much do the Ducati 749 and 749S cost?
The Ducati 749 starts around $10,500, while the 749S begins at approximately $12,500. The price difference reflects the enhanced features and performance of the 749S.
What is the weight difference between the two models?
The Ducati 749 weighs about 378 pounds, offering agility, while the 749S weighs around 388 pounds, providing a more stable ride during high-speed maneuvers.
How does the design of the Ducati 749 differ from the 749S?
The 749 has a sleek, minimalist design reflecting its racing heritage, while the 749S features a more aggressive look with additional aerodynamic elements and exclusive color options. Both models showcase Ducati’s signature styling.
What is the resale value of the Ducati 749 and 749S?
The resale value for the Ducati 749 averages around $7,000 for well-maintained models. The 749S generally holds a higher resale value, averaging between $9,000 to $10,000 due to its premium features.
