Considering the 407 pounds dry weight, the GT1000 qualifies for acceleration and top speed figures comparable to those of the Monster 1100.
The world had first seen Ducati’s GT models in the 1970s and, by simply looking at the bike, it is easy to understand that this 2010 model year pays a tribute to original Classic GTs. While the engine is all about performance and retaining that clean look of the cylinders, the 17-inch chrome spoked wheels and chrome fenders are as retro as they get.
As original, classy and unique a bike might look, there’s almost always some other bike to compare it with. The classic style is there, the bike relies on an 865cc, air-cooled, DOHC, parallel-twin that, like the one on the Ducati, is fuel injected. The rest is chrome and leather.
Underneath the tank it’s impossible to miss the stylish engine, which features no chrome in an attempt to enhance the visual effect of the enough chromed pieces already seen on the bike (this doesn’t include the exhaust though).
Without a doubt, the Ducati SportClassic GT 1000 is the ultimate in a gentleman's touring mount. Although it creates nostalgic yearnings with spoked wheels, dual shocks, semi-hard bags, and traditional lighting, the Ducati GT 1000 doesn't play the historical card as aggressively as the Moto Guzzi V7 Classic does. Unlike the now-departed SportClassic Sport 1000 S, which was clearly patterned after the 1974 Ducati 750 Sport, the GT borrows from Fabio Taglioni's earlier '71 Ducati 750 GT when presented naked. As a bare bones touring motorcycle, the Ducati GT 1000 is virtually flawless. It recalls a time when a touring motorcycle was a standard street motorcycle with a windshield and bags. On the interstate, the long-legged gearing of the Ducati GT 1000 is perfect. I rarely wound the Ducati 992cc GT up to its horsepower peak of 92 at 8000 rpm, because that's not what the motorcycle is about. Relax and let the motorcycle take you along for the ride. As a bonus, the GT sounds beautiful at low rpm, a reassuring bubbling from the twin stainless steel mufflers.
In town, the 2010 Ducati GT 1000 is a bit reluctant. Speaking of endurance, "Ducati SportClassic GT" does want you to stop now and then and take a stretch. The GT's ergonomics, with its raised bars and mid-position pegs, are relaxed and comfortable--perfect for riding through backroads at a comfortable, reasonable, and realistic pace. The suspension, though firm enough for sport riding, is pliable, so you never feel beaten up on mistreated roads.
The lockable SportClassic GT bags are roomy, and the opening makes it easy to utilize the space they offer. Save for the slippery seat, I am hard-pressed to find fault with Ducati's execution of the GT 1000.