I sometimes forget about the Ducati 851 because Ducatisti stop in their tracks over an 888. But the 851 is a fantastic bike in it’s own right, and this example is really packed with thoughtful upgrades. Check out this 1990 Ducati 851 For Sale in California for $5k:
quote from seller’s Craigslist posting:
There is nothing like the sound of a 90 degree Italian V-twin. I have for sale a beautiful red 1990 851.This bike has been meticulously kept in running order by Nichols Manufacturing in Milpitas and Moto Forza in Escondido. While being serviced by Nichols, I had them install their CNC Machined 6061-T6, lightened flywheel which removed approximately 3lbs 5oz of rotating mass which greatly enhanced its ability to rev quickly and to take advantage of engine braking. I also had them install their motor mount bolts, which go through the engine block and are tightened at each end which significantly stiffened the chassis. I added the Technomagnesio Rims front and back which shaved off a few pounds of un-sprung weight which made it accelerate harder, stop quicker, and turn into corners with minimal effort. I also added Steel braided brake lines and Ferrado brake pads to assist in slowing this Duc down. I moved to Southern California in 2003 and had the bike serviced by Moto Forza. At that time I added the Nichols Mfg, CNC Machined, 6061-T6, lightened clutch basket and Barnett racing clutch which removed 3.5 pounds of rotating mass. What a difference! coupled with the lightened flywheel this thing revs quickly and accelerates hard with plenty of torque. Other enhancements on the bike include the front forks which are Storz GCB racking forks and clip on’s, Storz steering damper, Ohlins Rear shock, K&N Air Filter, Gio-Ca-Moto high pipes, vented clutch cover, Billet foot pegs, bar end mirror, carbon fiber front and rear fenders, and a carbon fiber gas cap. This beauty has never been crashed or on the track and all of the paint is original. There are some small scratches on the left hand side, but for a bike with only 17,000 miles, this is truly a gem and surely to be a collectors item. I will also throw in the original white Brembo wheels and rear stand for free!
You will not be disappointed in the attention this bike receives. There are thousands of repli-racers all over the place, but when you show up at Alice’s Restaurant, the Duck pond at Laguna Seca, Mt Wilson, or Palomar Mountain, watch how this bike draws a crowd.
It’s sacrilege to even suggest it, but parting this bike could probably turn a tidy profit. Of course that would be a shame because this bike looks so well sorted, and for $5k it’d be a real pleasure to the ride balls off of it!
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