Original 1st generation Ducati 916 models are solidly in collector cross hairs. If you were around when these rocket-powered works of art were released back in ’94 and you didn’t score one, chances are good you remain nostalgic for Tamburini’s beautifully carved block of bologna (see what I did there?). The time to get in the game was earlier than now, but it is still not too late as these models are doing nothing but going up. Today’s example is a 1997 model monoposto, showing just over 6,000 miles.
1997 Ducati 916 for sale on eBay
When released in 1994, the Ducati 916 was the sharpest weapon the collective sport bike world had ever seen. A unique combination of stunning design and style, outrageous performance and exclusivity (primarily due to price), the 916 was an instant hit and spawned a long lineage of showroom winning Superbikes. And speaking of Superbikes, Ducati hit the WSBK circuit with the 916 (just as it had with the previous generation 851 and 888), providing Carl Fogarty with championships in 1994, 1995 and 1998, while Troy Corser took the title on a 916 in 1996. This was the most influential motorcycle of the decade and continues to be a much-loved model for riders and collectors alike.
From the seller:
This 1997 Ducati 916 Monoposto is powered by a liquid-cooled 916cc L-twin paired with a six-speed gearbox and is finished in red over a gold trellis frame. Tasteful period correct modifications include a Corbin solo seat, an inverted Showa fork, an Öhlins monoshock, carbon-fiber fenders, Fast by Ferracci slip-on mufflers, Brembo brake calipers, and three-spoke 17″ wheels. The bike was bought from it’s second owner in Sept 2021, it was serviced by him prior to the sale which included replacing the timing belts and spark plugs, changing the fluids, and performing a valve adjustment. This 916 shows 6080 miles and is offered with a rear axle stand, all origional removed factory components, and a clean New York title in the seller’s name.
There are many that claim that the oval-piston Honda NR750 pitched the concept of under seat high exhaust and the single sided swingarm, but there is no argument that – regardless of origin – the Ducati 916 has cemented ownership of the classic sport bike silhouette. And while “Ride Red” has long been a slogan of Honda, it can be argued that a certain Italian brand has owned the color since the launch of this model.
This particular bike looks extremely clean and well presented. Miles are low, bodywork is clean (with some minor boo boos), excellent F-B-F carbon exhaust add on, and a more comfy Corbin seat. Experienced riders will note that these were never particularly comfortable motorcycles, as the tight seating position and forward cant places a lot of weight on the riders’ wrists. But in the canyons there is nothing like the sound of the desmoquattro L-twin booming across the mountains and the sure-footed, trellis-framed chassis inspires ultimate confidence. This particular beauty can be yours, with the bidding starting at a cool $15,000 USD. There is a Buy It Now option set at $21.5k if you simply cannot wait. Check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!
MI
