In 2008, alongside the standard, S, and R versions, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer launched the Ducati 1098R Gulf Endurance racer. This limited-edition machine came with the same livery used by the Ducati Racing Team in several World Championships endurance races.
The color scheme was used on motorcycles that competed in endurance races, such as the 24 Hours Le Mans, the 6 Hours Albacete, and the Bol d'Or endurance race.
In the power department, the 2008 Ducati 1098R Gulf Endurance Racer had its heartbeat set by a 1,099cc four-stroke liquid-cooled V-twin engine, managed by an electronic fuel injection system, boasting 180 hp with a peak at 9,750 rpm and 134 Nm (99 lb-ft) torque at 7,750 rpm.
The power produced by the engine was handled by a six-speed manual transmission linked to the rear wheel through a chain final drive. With a dry weight of 169 kg (373 lbs), the bike reached a top speed of 290 kph (180 mph).
The bike rolled on GP Replica seven-spoke forged light alloy wheels, fitted with two 330 mm discs and four-piston calipers on the front and a 245 mm disc with a dual-piston caliper on the rear, offering strong stopping power.
As for handling, the 2008 Ducati 1098R Gulf Endurance Racer was fitted with top-end suspension components, including a 43 mm fully adjustable upside-down TiN-coated fork on the front and a fully adjustable Ohlins TTXS shock absorber on the rear, delivering outstanding suspension performance and handling.