The 160 Horsepower, 381 pound motorcycle was released in 2007 and quickly won numerous awards, including the coveted Cycle World "10 Best" and the "Best of the Best" award, given by the Robb Report.

The accolades awarded by the press matched the showroom buzz; with numerous Ducati dealers reported having deposits on their entire year's allocation before the first bikes even arrived.

As a result of the strong reception and the need to fulfill customer demand, Ducati North America has accelerated the arrival of the 2008 model to North American dealers.

"We are extremely proud of the 1098 Superbike and the success it has brought us," said Michael Lock, CEO of Ducati North America. "It is an incredible machine, and is well deserving of what it has achieved both in the showroom and with the press."

The 2008 Ducati 1098 and 1098 S are available now in authorized North American Ducati dealer showrooms and carry a MSRP of $15,995 and $19,995 respectively. Additional information, including detailed technical specifications and Ducati dealer locator, can be found at www.ducatiusa.com .