Ducati 851 Strada (1988)

Ducati 851 Strada (1988)

The Ducati 851 Strada marked a significant turning point in the marque’s history, heralding the modern era of superbikes from Bologna.

This liquid-cooled eight-valve V-twin engine boasted an impressive maximum output of 100bhp, thanks to its advanced four-valve heads and fuel-injection system. The traditional 90-degree V-twin layout remained intact, but with significant improvements in breathing and mid-range torque. This potent motor was a masterclass in smoothness and refinement.

A year after its initial release, the 851 Strada underwent a major revamp, addressing criticisms of its handling by switching to 17-inch wheels and upgrading suspension components. The result was a bike that not only delivered exhilarating performance but also offered improved rideability. With its advanced engineering and sophisticated design, the Ducati 851 Strada set a new benchmark for high-performance motorcycles.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, 90Ltwin cylinder, DOHC, desmodromic 4 valves per cylinder, belt driven
Engine Capacity851 cc / 51.9 cu in
Max Power75 kw / 102 hp
Max Torque71.2 Nm / 7.26 kgf-m / 52.5 ft-lb @ 7250 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity5.3 US gallons / 20.0 L
Seat Height29.9 inches / 760 mm
Ducati 851 Strada (1988)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelDucati 851 Strada
Year1988

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, 90Ltwin cylinder, DOHC, desmodromic 4 valves per cylinder, belt driven
Displacement851 cc / 51.9 cu in
Bore x Stroke92 x 64 mm
Compression Ratio10.2:1
Max Horsepower75 kw / 102 hp
Max Torque71.2 Nm / 7.26 kgf-m / 52.5 ft-lb @ 7250 rpm
Engine Management SystemWeber I.A.W. CPU P7 electronic fuel injection. 2 x 50mm throttle bodies
Cooling SystemLiquid cooled

Performance

Top Speedn/a

Transmission

ClutchDry,multiplate
Gearbox6 Speed
Primary Drive Ratio2:1 (31/62)
Gear Ratios1st 2.466 / 2nd 1.765 / 3rd 1.350 / 4th 1.091 / 5th 0.958 / 6th 0.857:1
Final DriveChain

Electrical & Electronics System

Battery12V 14Ah
StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Frame TypeTubular steel
Front SuspensionMarzocchi M1R upside-down fork with rebound compression damping adjustable
Rear SuspensionMarzocchi Supermono shock with preload and damping adjustable, rising rate swingarm

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size130/60 x 16
Rear Tire Size160/60 x 16
Front Brakes2 x 280 mm Disc, 4 piston calipers
Rear BrakesSingle 260 mm disc, 2 piston caliper

Dimension & Weights

Overall Length2050 mm / 80.7 in
Overall Width700 mm / 27.6 in
Overall Height1130 mm / 44.5 in
Seat Height29.9 inches / 760 mm
Wheelbase57.5 inches / 1460 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity5.3 US gallons / 20.0 L
Dry Weight185 kg / 408 lbs

Features

  • Four stroke engine
  • 90L twin cylinder engine
  • DOHC (dual overhead camshafts)
  • Desmodromic 4 valves per cylinder
  • Belt driven
  • Steel tube trellis frame
  • Marvic wheels
  • Brembo brakes
  • Marzocchi suspension
  • Liquid-cooled eight-valve V-twin engine
  • Four-valve heads
  • Fuel-injection
  • 90-degree V-twin layout
  • Maximum output of 100bhp
  • Mid-range torque
  • Top-end rush
  • 17-inch front wheel (later model)
  • Longer rear shock with compression-damping adjuster knob
  • Higher compression ratio engine
  • Reshaped camshafts
  • Modified fuel-injection
  • New exhaust mufflers
Ducati 851 Strada (1988)
Ducati 851 Strada (1988)
Ducati 851 Strada (1988)

Know someone who’d find this useful? Share this page with a friend, your riding club or your favourite motorcycle community.

Explore our collection of Ducati motorcycles for detailed specifications and model information. Or browse all motorcycle manufacturers.


more Specifications