Introduced in 1999, the Ducati 996 was the successor to the 916 and was obviously more evolutionary than revolutionary. But while Ducati didn’t want to mess with success in the looks department, the new bike featured a host of subtle but significant changes to the frame, fuel injection, and engine that led to improvements in the overall performance.
The engine was the most significant point of improvement. Changes to World Superbike rules allowed v-twins as large as 1000cc, and the cases of the 916 began to crack when displacement was increased beyond 955cc. So strengthened cases were introduced on the limited production 916SPS and then used on the updated 996, albeit with milder camshafts and an overall lower state of tune.
Although prices for all of the Tamburini bikes have increased over the past few years, the 996 still represents the best value: it doesn’t have the cachet of the 916, or the reputation of the 998 as being the most well-developed and powerful. But it has the looks, handling, and booming v-twin voice that have made the bike a modern classic, and this may be your last chance to buy in before prices really start to climb.
Beautiful yellow 1999 Ducati 996 Monoposto Superbike. One of the nicest Tamburini 996’s for sale anywhere. Ready to enjoy. 3000 miles on complete rebuilt and balanced motor with modern mods, lightened flywheel, Carrillo rods, balanced bottom end, new belts, valves set to spec, single injector mod etc… Brand new clutch, springs and all related seals. Full engine build documents included.
Most running gear parts are new as of 3000 miles. All electronics work. Polished stainless Termi full exhaust. Brand new Heli bars (huge improvement in leverage and comfort). Rear Ohlins suspension and steering stabilizer, Corbin leather seat, Mad Duc rear sets, Titanium axle nuts. New EBC Wave rotors and pads, Magura master brake cylinder, recent service, brand new tires, new chain and slider, brand new Lithium battery, LED tail light with stop light flash, new rizoma rear turn signals.
Bike runs, looks and handles great. Clean CA title with current registration. This bike needs nothing and is in excellent shape. It has had meticulous maintenance and babied it’s whole life. Rear Italian paddock stand included.
The starting bid for this example is $10,999, which seems on the high side for a starting bid and looks more in line with an asking price for a good 996, especially considering this bike’s 63,840 miles. It appears to be in mechanically solid condition and the built motor could sound appealing to some, but collectors generally prefer a machine in stock, original condition with low miles. In addition, the white wheels, various decals, and colorful… accessories are obviously easy to change, but might turn off serious collectors.
-tad
Those grips! I’m going to need therapy after seeing those.