Update 3.20.2020: This bike has SOLD! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc
Ducati wanted to continue their WSBK winning ways, and presented an homologation special to legalize their 996. Just a few hundred SPS were made in any year and they appear only occasionally. This example has been returned to riding status after a long time on display and looks excellent.
1999 Ducati 996 SPS with 4,560 Miles !
The 996 added a new desmoquattro to the legendary 916 design, the increased bore bringing 123 hp to the track-oriented machine. Pit lane features like quick-release fairings, flip-up seat, and single sided swingarm made service items easy to get to. SPS buyers who were going right to the track needed the adjustable steering head angle, but all appreciated the lightweight Marchesini rims, adjustable Showa forks and Öhlins monoshock and steering damper. Monoposto seat and red paint were part of the SPS package.
Over the 20 years this SPS has travelled under 5,000 miles, and looks very original. RSBFS reader Chris has these notes:
– only 4,560 miles on odometer
– professionally gone through / got running / checked over
– new battery, belts replaced, new fuel pump, screen, filter, air filter, spark plugs
– tank cleaned, injectors and lines cleaned, oil change
– light weight, lots of carbon fiber
– only minor blemishes from years of sitting / storage, little riding, no major damage of any kind
Asking $12,990
As the 916 – 996 – 998 family progressed up the slippery slope of track-ability, street manners suffered with ergonomics and cooling systems that called for highway speeds at minimum. But the 996 SPS is in a good spot on the timeline, and with a little judicious route planning and maybe a fan override switch, can make for an exhilarating morning off. The extra power and lightness reviewed as worth the upcharge when new, and look like an absolute bargain these days.
-donn