2012 Ducati 848 Streetfighter spied

This is the first picture of Ducati’s eagerly-awaited new junior super naked – the 848 Streetfighter.

Due to be publicly unveiled at the world-leading Milan Show in November, the new bike – spied here exiting the Bologna firm’s factory gates last week – is clearly in production-ready trim and borrows heavily from the bigger 1098 Streefighter with styling cues taken from the 748/848 sports bike series.

As can be seen here, the new 848 Streetfighter’s rolling chassis is based heavily on that of its bigger brother although suspension, brakes and other cycle parts are expected to be more basic, budget-priced items to keep the bike’s price down. However, an S version, with higher spec items is also likely to be offered.

The powertrain, meanwhile, is expected to be virtually identical to the 848 supersports machine but with possibly revised fuelling and gearing.

The spy photo confirms that in keeping with Ducati’s tradition in the junior class, yellow will be offered as one of the colour options.