Ducati SuperSport 950 S Ride Review
Review
By Adam Child
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Ducati’s SuperSport 950 S is more tempting than ever, with improved looks and rider aids.
There is a lovely burble on the overrun, even at low rpm, which pops with character as you roll to a stop. Around town it’s noticeable but not annoying, simply adding a little appeal. Higher in the rpm, it’s addictive and gives the bike a sporty feel. There is a lovely drive from low down in the revs, accompanied by a snarl and deep breath from the airbox. The user-friendly Ducati SuperSport makes similar power to the legendary Ducati 916/996—this is not a slow bike. Peak power is 110 bhp at 9,000 rpm, with peak torque at 69 pound-feet at 6,500 rpm.
Torque
You don’t need to be bouncing off the rev limiter, you don’t need to jump up and down the (standard) up-and-down quickshifter… Instead, there is that lovely spread of torque that allows you to play with just fourth and fifth gear. I can see why some may favor the SuperSport to one of Ducati’s pricier, more focused sporting siblings, especially for the road. You can use the engine, enjoy the sound and feel, drive out of corners, and feel in command. You are the boss.
Fueling
At low speeds the fueling is excellent. Ducati has perfected L-twin fuel injection, the only setback being the now standard quickshifter. Above 30 mph and higher in the revs it works perfectly, but at low rpm it can be snatchy and doesn’t balance flawlessly with the revs. While I’m complaining, I don’t like the way the bars now trap fingers and thumbs on the new bodywork on full lock. This is only noticeable when doing slow-speed U-turns, usually when one or both feet are down. It’s not hazardous or too dramatic, but annoying and again something I wasn’t expecting from Ducati.
Comfort
The SuperSport is comfortable (the seat has increased in comfort) with relatively high bars and low pegs that are not too far back. The screen is adjustable by 1.97 inches, the new TFT clocks are neat and clear, and the visual appeal once onboard is high. With the screen fully upright, wind protection wasn’t too bad, while the seat and ergonomics were faultless. Ducati has improved comfort, and I rode all day without any physical complaints.
Fuel Capacity
The fuel light came on at around the 130-mile mark, with around 40 miles remaining, depending on conditions. I averaged 47.5 mpg (39.6 US mpg), which gives a theoretical range of 167 miles. Is that enough for touring? The tank range is easily large enough for two hours in the saddle.
Suspension
The Öhlins suspension is sublime; there is a superb, natural feel from both ends. It copes with everything from fast-flowing stuff to bumpy roads taken at speed. The suspension is on the sporty side of sport-touring and holds the chassis once on its side, yet is soft enough to take the strain on the exit.
Brakes
The Brembo radial brakes remain as the old model’s, which isn’t a bad thing as they are top quality. The big change for 2021 is the introduction of a six-axis IMU, which means the ABS braking can now be lean-sensitive.
Electronics
As we’ve come to expect from Ducati, the rider aids are excellent, and a big step over the previous model as well as perfect for both new and inexperienced riders. The new 4.3-inch full color dash makes the settings clear and easy to customize.
Verdict
The SuperSport is a great bike. Ducati has enhanced the SuperSport 950 S’ appeal: It’s now a stunning bike, with a functional design that features new LED DRL lights and clever bodywork that takes engine heat away from the rider. The electronics are a welcome and significant renovation.
