We had the opportunity to ride the similarly freshened ST4s ABS. (During tripping to Barcelona, Spain, to attend the world release of Ducati's new ST3 sport-tourer), we built with the same frame and bodywork as the ST3, the $16,295 ST4s ABS (subtract $1000 for the non-ABS version) is distinguished by its more powerful, four-valve Desmoquattro engine, uprated suspension and Brembo-built antilock braking system.
Essentially, ST4s' 996cc V-twin unchanged from last year, was produced 117 horsepower and 72 foot-pounds of torque (both claimed). This ferocious quick-revving motor is an adrenaline factory on fast, open roads, pulling with authority well into double-digit revs. As fun as it is at speed, however, a slight off-idle stumble and general low-rev snatchiness (a common Desmoquattro complaint) make it less than ideal for stop-and-go duty. Suspension, on the other hand, is faultless. Pairing a fully adjustable, inverted 43mm Showa fork with titanium-nitrided sliders and a similarly adjustable Oehlins rear shock, suspension is suitably taut for the hyper speeds that the eight-valver encourages, and offers excellent absorption of both high- and low-speed bumps. Everything as you'd expect on a bike with a price tag north of $15,000.
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