Like a race bike
Sitting 830 millimetres off the ground, the rider can feel and taste all the emotions and flavours of Ducati superbikes – the growling engine with its delightful backfires, the tenacious rear-wheel grip upon exiting corners, the precision of the frame at the apex and the legendary performance of the (extremely) rigid Trellis frame.

Speaking of which, the 848EVO stands alone in the current lineup of Ducati models as a captivating yet challenging ride. On the track, you'll even get the impression that it refuses to turn. You can try some counter-steering or shift more of your body to the inside of the turn, but it won't matter: this beast is a load to handle and obeys only after much prodding.

Making the job more difficult is the reduced engine brake aimed at improving cornering control (the new maps keep the throttles slightly open when decelerating). You'll think you engaged neutral by mistake as you enter corners. To make up for the lack of engine brake, you have to keep a bit of pressure on the front brake until the apex (known as ''trail braking'').

With a single finger on the lever, you won't just slow the 848 down; the front tire will sink into the pavement and the rear tire will leave the ground. (Photo: Filip Bertrand)

Fortunately, the Brembos prove ultra-powerful and totally easy to modulate. With a single finger on the lever, you won't just slow the 848 down at the end of a straightaway; the front tire will sink into the pavement and the rear tire will leave the ground.

Designed for seasoned, methodical riders
The 848EVO doesn't like approximations and hesitations; you must maintain perfect lines and anticipate where you want to go next. If you try to correct your line after going a little willy-nilly into a corner, you may very well get a big scare. More physical than a 600 but not as much as a 1,000, this Ducati offers precise front-wheel handling to make short work of ''S'' turns.

There's no lack of thrills under hard braking as the front wheel is willing to attack corners with lots of spirit. To wit, the front tire barely wears out while the rear tire must endure the significant torque of the engine.

In the end, the 2011 Superbike 848EVO is a Ducati through and through. As a pure, strikingly-styled sport bike, it shows plenty of rebellious character, like a wild beast looking to be tamed. And as a true Italian, it means you have to work for it, spend time to understand the ins and outs, and adapt your riding style to suit its personality.

After a few runs, you'll become one with the machine and set a new fastest lap time after another. True, the 848 requires a certain level of experience and skill, but that only makes it even better and sexier. While it won't appeal to everyone, it definitely stirs passion and leaves no one indifferent.

Pros
Torquey engine is surprisingly efficient
Intoxicating sound
Razor-sharp frame
Unique feeling

Cons
Challenging to exploit