The Ducati SuperSport 950 / 950S combines aggressive sport styling with touring-friendly comfort and practical technology. A true bridge between a full-blown superbike and an everyday sport machine, the SuperSport 950 lineup is engineered for riders who want performance without sacrificing comfort or versatility. In this guide, we break down the specifications, standout features, and pricing to help you understand why this bike is turning heads around the world.
Overview of the Ducati SuperSport 950 / 950S
The Ducati SuperSport 950 / 950S is part of Ducati’s road-focused sportbike category. It carries the DNA of the Panigale family but softens the aggressive race-focused edge to make it more suitable for daily rides and weekend sport touring. Its balance of style, power, and practicality makes it ideal for riders seeking a multipurpose motorcycle with sporty intentions.
Design and Aesthetics
Sleek Styling Inspired by the Panigale
Visually, the Ducati SuperSport 950 / 950S is heavily influenced by the Panigale series. Its full fairing, aggressive front fascia, and sharp LED headlight give it an unmistakable Ducati identity. The aerodynamic side vents and contoured fuel tank add to the bike’s racy aesthetic, while still maintaining ergonomics for longer rides.
Color Options
- Ducati Red (available on both models)
- Arctic White Silk (exclusive to the 950S)
The 950S version adds subtle upgrades such as a color-matched rear seat cover and gold-finished Öhlins suspension components that highlight its premium nature.
Engine and Performance
937cc Testastretta 11° Engine
At the heart of the Ducati SuperSport 950 / 950S lies a 937cc, L-twin Testastretta 11° engine that meets Euro 5 emissions standards. It’s a liquid-cooled, Desmodromic valve engine known for its smooth torque curve and spirited performance.
Performance Figures
- Power Output: 110 hp at 9,000 rpm
- Torque: 93 Nm at 6,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed with Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) up/down
- Top Speed: Approximately 240 km/h (149 mph)
Whether you’re carving mountain roads or commuting, the engine delivers strong low-end torque and high-revving excitement, making it versatile and thrilling.
Chassis, Suspension, and Handling
Lightweight Trellis Frame
The bike uses a tubular steel trellis frame attached directly to the cylinder heads, offering excellent rigidity and responsiveness. Combined with the single-sided aluminum swingarm, it provides sharp handling and precise cornering capabilities.
Suspension Setup
- SuperSport 950: Marzocchi 43mm fully adjustable front forks and Sachs rear monoshock
- SuperSport 950S: Fully adjustable Öhlins 48mm front forks and Öhlins rear shock
The 950S model delivers superior ride quality, especially for aggressive riders or those who frequently tackle twisty roads.
Braking and Tires
- Front Brakes: Dual 320mm discs with Brembo Monobloc calipers
- Rear Brake: 245mm disc with two-piston caliper
- Tires: Pirelli Diablo Rosso III (120/70 ZR17 front, 180/55 ZR17 rear)
These high-performance components ensure strong braking power and excellent grip in various riding conditions.
Technology and Electronics
Advanced Rider Aids
The Ducati SuperSport 950 / 950S features a full suite of electronic aids designed for safety and rider confidence:
- Bosch 6-axis IMU
- Cornering ABS
- Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO
- Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC)
- Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) EVO 2
- Three Riding Modes (Sport, Touring, Urban)
Each mode adjusts power delivery, traction control, and ABS intervention to match riding conditions and preferences.
TFT Display and Connectivity
A vibrant 4.3-inch full-color TFT display provides a modern interface for all vehicle information. It also integrates with the Ducati Multimedia System (optional) to enable smartphone connectivity for calls, music, and navigation alerts.
Comfort and Practicality
Ergonomics for Everyday Riding
Unlike pure supersport motorcycles, the Ducati SuperSport 950 / 950S is designed with rider comfort in mind. The riding position is more upright, the seat is plush and roomy, and the handlebars are higher for reduced wrist fatigue.
Wind Protection and Touring Features
- Height-adjustable windscreen
- Optional side panniers and touring accessories
- Passenger comfort: Comfortable pillion seat with grab handles
These features make the SuperSport surprisingly capable for long-distance rides.
Differences Between Ducati SuperSport 950 and 950S
| Feature | SuperSport 950 | SuperSport 950S |
|---|---|---|
| Suspension | Marzocchi/Sachs | Öhlins (Front & Rear) |
| Quick Shift | Standard | Standard |
| Color Options | Red | Red, Arctic White |
| Seat Cowl | No | Yes |
| Price (Approx.) | $14,795 | $17,195 |
The Ducati SuperSport 950S is the more premium offering with better suspension and a few cosmetic extras, making it ideal for riders who want top-tier handling performance and style.
Pricing and Availability
The Ducati SuperSport 950 / 950S is competitively priced within the premium sport-touring segment.
- Ducati SuperSport 950: Starting at $14,795 USD
- Ducati SuperSport 950S: Starting at $17,195 USD
Prices may vary by region and dealer. Optional accessories and performance kits can further enhance both models at additional cost.
Conclusion
The Ducati SuperSport 950 / 950S stands out as a beautifully crafted motorcycle that balances everyday usability with performance and style. It’s a compelling choice for riders who want a sportbike feel without the hardcore ergonomics of a superbike. Whether you’re hitting backroads, taking long tours, or riding through urban streets, the SuperSport delivers excitement, comfort, and unmistakable Ducati flair.
With its advanced electronics, striking design, and flexible character, the Ducati SuperSport 950 / 950S proves that you don’t need to compromise between practicality and passion.
