Update 8.17.2020: This bike has SOLD to an RSBFS reader! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc Putting a numbered plaque and some bling on your moribund sportbike is a time-tested method to generate some buzz. It works especially well if you’re a storied, but slightly skint manufacturer of moribund Italian sportbikes. But parts-bin engineering doesn’t…
Our last few 998S reviews have focused on Bayliss and Bostrom livery replicas, but here is a classic Anniversary red example with just 7,000 miles. 2004 Ducati 998S Final Edition for sale on eBay The 998 was an interesting transition for Ducati, since it was the last of the revered 916 lookers but had the…
Update 7.17.2020: This bike has SOLD in just 24 hours! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc Just in time for the start of the COVID-19-shortened MotoGP season, we bring you this 1998 Aprilia RS250 MKII Rossi Edition. This gorgeous, close to original little ripper celebrates the beginning of Rossi’s career, back when he was making…
With only 400 worldwide, the 998S Troy Bayliss commemorative in InfoStrada livery is a pretty rare sight. This California example sports just 825 miles and includes all manner of swag. 2002 Ducati 998S Bayliss Edition for sale on eBay The last in a long line of 916 derivatives, the 998 has the classic lines, but…
Update 7.16.2020: This bike has SOLD! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc Riders like Valentino Rossi don’t spring from the womb in neon leathers, ready to drag a knee on the way out the delivery room. It takes time to hone their skills on smaller bikes as teenagers, before moving up to Grand Prix machines.…
Update 5.18.2020: This bike has SOLD! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc One could argue that naming a sportbike after its designed top speed is unfair. Kinda like naming a kid after Ayrton Senna or John Surtees. It’s a nice honor, but it takes a special person to leave the shadow of a lofty name.…
Update 7.31.2020: This bike has SOLD! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc It was never going to be sufficient for Ducati to commemorate Carl Fogarty’s contributions to motorcycling with yet another race replica superbike with faux sponsor livery. Sure, go ahead and remember Ben Bostrom and Troy Bayliss with tarted-up 999Rs, but Foggy deserved something…
By the late 1990s, Ducati’s success in production-based racing and general iconic-ness meant a new emphasis on v-twins for many manufacturers. It helps that a v-twin package makes for a great roadbike, with flexible midrange torque and lots of character at any speed. As a bonus a v-twin just sounds like a motorcycle. With 916-level…
