Much ink and other media has been spilled extolling the virtues of the mighty Ducati 916. It is, quite simply, one of the most beautiful and significant sportbikes of the modern era. It was also expensive, uncomfortable, and maintenance-intensive. Basically, the quintessential Italian sportbike. But a quirk of history led to the Ducati 916 “Varese” and its increased desirability, compared to other examples of the 916 platform.
As demand peaked for the new superbike, a fire at Ducati’s Bologna headquarters shut down production, and assembly was temporarily moved to parent company Cagiva’s Varese facility. At a glance, the bikes produced in Varese are mechanically identical to examples produced in other years. However, the alternate facilities lacked some of the production equipment used by the Ducati factory and, as a result, the bikes developed a hand-built reputation and a bit of related mystique.
Does that make them better? Maybe, in some immeasurable, intangible way. Does it make them more valuable? Among certain collectors it certainly does, and today’s example reflects that increased desirability.
From the original eBay listing: 1995 Ducati 916 “Varese” for Sale
1995 Ducati 916 Varese. 26k miles and runs perfectly. Cosmetically a 9/10.
As the photos depict, this 916 is loaded with high quality, correct modifications yet maintains all ’95 dated side fairings and OEM SPS style front and rear fairings, and P8 ECU. Some premier upgrades include an Ohlins rear shock, 50mm Termignoni exhaust, Ducati Performance Carbon Fiber airbox, Marchesini 5-spoke wheels, and much more as shown in photos.
This bike runs strong and starts flawlessly without the need for the throttle “choke” assist. I have two other 916’s with 10k mikes and this one runs the best. Maintenance completed (belts checked, fluid changes, spark plugs, and filters). Just thinning my fleet a bit.
Additional photos and video upon request.
Clean FL title in hand.
The seller is asking $16,000 for this example of Tamburini’s iconic superbike, which seems high given the 26,000 miles, but are nothing to worry about if the bike has been properly maintained, as is appears this one has been. The aftermarket parts look great and certainly suit the bike, but there’s no mention whether or not the original parts are included.
-tad
“The seller is asking $16,000 for this example of Tamburini’s iconic superbike, which seems high given the 26,000 miles, but are nothing to worry about if the bike has been properly maintained”
Seriously??? 🤣🤣🤣
Eh, “nothing to worry about” may have been a bit too glib. But yeah, my experience with Ducatis backs that up: these bikes can do plenty of miles when properly taken care of. Unless they blow up. Which can also happen.
The earliest examples of a great machine will always command a premium, especially when they are like the Varese 916 – different than the regular production. Look at the early Honda CB750 sandcast (they made 3 times as many as the Vareses) or the early Jaguar E-Type (flat floor, outside bonnet latch, etc.) or the early Alfa Romeo Giuliettas, all of which command premiums over their later brethren.