Here is something a bit unusual, a pre-bankruptcy Bimota SB3 that looks like it was actively ridden.
Bimota was founded on the idea of taking an existing bike and making it better, with particular focus on the frame. The SB3 debuted in 1979 and while not as dramatic looking as the SB2 it was derived from, the SB3 incorporated a series of significant technical changes from its predecessor.
The SB3 frame was specifically designed for the Suzuki GS1000 engine, including a tubular rear sub-frame that was assembled around the engine. The SB2 also uses conical joints to connect the frame segments and was one of the first commercially available bikes to include a perimeter swing arm. Other advanced-for-the-time aspects of the SB3 include full modular bodywork and top shelf components such as Brembo brakes.
1980 Bimota SB3 for sale on eBay
Powered by Suzuki’s bullet-proof GS1100 power plant the SB3 could out handle and outrun practically anything else on the road save for an all-out racebike. Here is a recent classicbike.com review
“Even today you might be surprised at the potential – should you be lucky or brave enough to ride it in anger. At the heart of this classic is a Suzuki in-line four 987 cc engine from the GS1000, cranking out 87 hp. At 450 lbs it’s not the lightest or fastest bike around but it certainly looks good and moves like a big cat.”
Despite all the advanced tech, only 402 examples of the SB3 were produced during its 1979-1982 model lifespan. This was partly due to the unfamiliarity of the Bimota brand at the time and also because the SB3 was possible the most expensive bike for sale back in 1980 at $7000 (which translates to $24,278 today).
An excellent review was put up on Classicsportbikesforsale earlier this year by our own Tad D, click here to read it.
Overall condition of this particular 1980 Bimota SB3 looks to be good but not great, with some rash and paint issues and a bit of tuning needing. Mileage is uncertain due to the speedo not being connected but based on condition of the fork paint, the bike hasn’t been a garage queen.
Here is some of what the seller has to say
- Light rash on right side fairing some rock chips in paint of forks, paint issue around fuel cap, left fairing is shows bubbling under the paint. Also powder coating on front right wheel center has come off as pictured, swingarm under rear shock mount is missing some powdercoating and shows surface rust.
- Odometer does not work as no speedo sending unit is installed. Needs the proper speedo sending unit from a Suzuki donor bike.
- Bike is sluggish between 4500-6000 rpm but will hit redline in top gear. Checking timing shows proper advance so likely a carb tuning issue which could be resolve on the dyno.
So what is this 1980 Bimota SB3 worth? Well the seller indicates this is number 179 of 402 produced but I don’t see a placque or anything to confirm that. While the Buy-It-Now $18,500 USD asking price is pretty high for an early 1980’s sportbike, it is actually in line with the few previous SB3’s that we have had on RSBFS. The next owner will get a bike that will need some work if a concours d elegance level bike is desired.
I suppose a new owner could keep it un-restored and just enjoy it but 18k is a lot to spend for a daily runner or perhaps this one will appeal to someone who already has a stable of Bimotas and who is willing to spend a few more 1000s to bring it up to concours level.
-Marty/Dallaslavowner
(NOTE: The seller does indicate an extra OEM set of lower fairings which is a nice addition).
I saw this bike in person last week. Needs a little carb work but pretty nice overall. Definitely a rider.