Of course I’m joking, but with two listed already on this blog alone since July, I’m surprised that this rare model has surfaced as much as it has. Take a look at this Ducati 888 SPO for sale on eBaymotors:
quote from seller’s eBay listing:
This is a beautiful, classic machine, carefully kept to look and run well. Even now people ask if it is new. 10726 miles.
There are several 851/888 types out there; this SPO is Ducati’s flagship US superbike road model for 1993; a few hundred were made. Liquid-cooled, fuel injected, “desmoquattro” with a Showa front fork and Ohlins rear shock. Mono seat with lightweight fiberglass tail section with “Campione Del Mondo Superbike” graphics and a big number “1”.
All major service performed by Renaissance Motorcycles in Tucson. The bike was originally sold new at Renaissance. I am the third owner and also bought it there in 1998. This bike has seen a few track days but I have never raced it.
Modifications:
* Aftermarket carbon pipes and ECU chip installed by previous owner. These make the sweet thunder you expect. Original factory pipes will be included.
* Aftermarket voltage regulator keeps the battery charged much better than the original factory part.
* Rear fender/license plate hanger modified for a cleaner look. I have a spare unused original rear fender which will be included.
* Kevlar brake lines.
* K&N air filter.Condition:
* Always garaged.
* Oil/filter and coolant just changed.
* Airbox and intake unmodified.
* Battery replaced earlier this year. I keep the bike on a Battery Tender.
* Cam belts are due for replacement.
* Tires are Michelin Pilot Sports with low miles but several years old.
* Current Arizona registration (passes emissions test).
* Paint etc. very nice but not concours ready.
* No crashes or engine blowups; this bike is still largely as originally built in Borgo Panigale.
I was first alerted of this sale because I subscribe to the Ducati-851-888 Yahoo Group. These guys not only know of all the 888’s on the market, they also know 851 and 888 Superbikes inside and out. A must join if you’re of the faithful.
Recently the group has suggested that the market is a bit softer and good deals can be had between $7-9k. What do you think a solid, documented, and low miles 888 SPO is worth? Leave a comment and share your experience!
Update 10.9.08 – Auction ended with reserve met at $6900. Congrats to the new owner on what looks like a fantastic buy!
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[…] 1993 Ducati Superbike 888 SPO: So Are These Rare or Not? – I’m joking a bit in the title, but it sure seems like these are coming up for sale more often than I’d expect. […]
Dear Mr. Kent Riches,
very impressed about your Steyr Daimler Puch 250 RS restauration.
Is there a way to purchase the plastic (or aluminum ?) parts like tank, seat, fairing, front mudguard ?
Thanks for letting me know.
All the best
Kindest regards
Prof.Dr. Franz Laimboeck
(former Head of R&D at Puch, Graz in 1985-87)