Posts tagged as “851”

Quatorze – 1992 Ducati 851

Published March 22, 2023 by Mike

Near Toronto, Canada, just above the Great Lake of Ontario, comes this pretty Italian supermodel. The 851 is fabled for bringing together the trifecta of liquid cooling, fuel injection and four-valve desmo heads together in one fantastic package. So good was this bike that it set Ducati on a dominant streak in the WSBK racing series. It also created lust in the hearts of street riders everywhere, which Ducati catered to with the introduction of several road variants. Today’s example is a Strada, the base-spec, two seater that is bound to turn heads wherever it goes.

1992 Ducati 851 for sale on Kijiji

From the seller:
1992 Ducati 851 for sale. Beautiful condition
17138 miles
Fully serviced. Valves done new belts , suspension rebuilt , new lithium battery , new tires.
Runs and drives perfect.

Not a ton of info or pictures on this one, but what can be seen appears to be a well-loved and cared for example of the 851. It retains the pillion seat cover, and is sporting a set of Termis that are guaranteed to wake up the neighbors when you spark up the big twin for an early morning ride. The seller claims valves and belts have been recently completed, which goes a long way to adding to the longevity of any Ducati. And speaking of longevity, this one shows 27,358 KM (17,000 miles) on the odometer. This 1992 Ducati 851 is posted on Kijiji and the seller is looking for $15k. Good Luck!!!

Search for Ducati 851 performance parts on eBay!

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Lone Star Strada – 1992 Ducati 851

Published December 10, 2022 by Mike

Ah, the Ducati 851. Back to our regularly scheduled program. Aside from the green frame 750SS, the 851 is THE bike that put Ducati on the superbike racing map. Taking the base Pantah rubber band motor and dipping it into a vat of fuel injection, four-valve heads and liquid cooling, the 851 invented the modern distinction between Ducati Supersport and Superbike models. It also cleaned up at the racetrack, thanks to rules that allowed two cylinder race bikes to enjoy a capacity advantage over the predominant Japanese fours. Today, these models continue to make excellent street bikes, with decent, usable power across the rev range. They are also gaining in collector value, although the homologation models and specials (think SP models for racing) will usually lead the trend. Today’s example is a bread-and-butter Strada, the base model for the series. Displacing a true 851cc (unlike the next-generation 888 motor in the SP), the Strada is geometrically identical to the faster and more expensive models in the lineup, and includes a second seat and fold-down hand-holds for a passenger.

1992 Ducati 851 Strada for sale on eBay

From the seller:
Own a piece of Ducati history with the Ducati 851 Strada!

1992 was the last year of the 851 before the 888 came along.

The Ducati 851 single-handedly made Ducati relevant in racing again. It features the famous trellis frame, twin-cam four-valve Desmo heads, fuel injection, and is water-cooled. Showa adjustable front suspension and Brembo brakes front and rear made this bike ride and brake like no other.

More from the seller:
This bike has been in hibernation for a few years, but it is now a runner and a rider.

The bike shows 11,528 miles on the odometer and is being sold as-is.
There are a handful of things we would recommend it will need to get it entirely up to snuff:
– Coolant flush
– Brake fluid flush
– Oil and filter change
– Timing belts
– New drive chain
– New tires

The odometer doesn’t work – it stopped working approximately 500-600 miles before storage

This particular example of the last generation of 851 looks to be complete, save for the pillion cover to make the 851 appear to be a faux solo seater. There is some patina across this one as well, indicating that it may not have been as loved as the specimen example currently parked up on a pedestal at the Barber museum. It also has a pretty unknown history, the seller claiming this is a runner and a rider – but then offers a lengthy list of major service items. To top it off, the 11,528 miles listed on the odo is known to be incorrect, given that the mileage counter gave up the ghost “before it was put into storage a few years ago.” Despite this, the bike still looks good, and is quite presentable for the age.

Apart from the service requirements and age-related ouches around the bodywork, the 851 remains a solid performer both on the road as well as in resale markets. The Strada specification tempers the growth some, but the rising tide of valuation lifts all boats. The seller is asking $14,500 for this one, which is definitely on the high side of what we have seen for the model. But the seller is also open to offers, so there may yet be an opportunity for interested buyers. The bike is located in Texas, and the pictures show California plates. Look closely at the pictures, do your homework, and be sure and jump over to the auction to check out all of the details. Good Luck!!

Featured Listing – 1992 Ducati 851 Strada

Published November 16, 2022 by Donn

Update 12.14.2022: This bike has SOLD! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc

Ducati’s 851 is a once a significant milepost in the manufacturer’s history, a beautiful design artifact, and a rare and epic riding experience. RSBFS friend Thomas has made some some nice improvements to his final year 851, and offers it for sale near Milwaukee.

1992 Ducati 851 Strada asking $11,500

Cagiva funding provided the impetus to update Massimo Borda’s earlier desmoquattro design and developed the heads for Ducati’s belt-driven cam engine. Fuel injection and water cooling were implemented and superbike 93 hp was the result. Now classic, the trellis frame was light and rigid for the day. Componentry was forward-looking, with inverted Showa forks, and wide 17-inch alloys front and rear. Riding position is uncompromising, though over the four years of production fairings were lightened at least visually, looking every bit a world superbike.

Thomas is only the third owner of this 851, and had the cosmetics nicely freshened, plus the suspension serviced and tuned on his watch. Previous owners provided a freer exhaust and intake, and had hydraulic systems updated. Thomas asks $11,500 for his 851, which can be seen on – Cycletrader – and sent these comprehensive notes to RSBFS –

This is my 1992 851 Strada that I’m offering for sale. Those familiar with the marque will know that the 851 series essentially gave birth to the 4-valve Ducati dynasty that we see today.

The example I have here is a well sorted bike with many period and later upgrades to maintain its looks and performance. It may have higher mileage but ask any real expert and he/she will tell you an early 4-valve will go forever if properly maintained and reward its rider with many more happy miles. I am the third owner and have owned it for the last 2 years in Wisconsin, only run in dry conditions and stored in a dry garage or local Ducati dealer for winter storage.

The bike is in excellent condition. It runs and rides flawlessly and pulls like a train. There are some signs of age on parts of the frame and the foam instrument surround but not unexpected. Period mods include an Australian ECU performance chip for open air box and exhaust mods. (original chip available) Carbon fiber front and rear fenders, and Carbon Tech high mount exhaust cans.

Major work conducted by the second owner in Dec of 2019 at 25393 miles:
Full service including valve clearances and belt change.

Coated braided brake and clutch lines
Clutch master and slave cylinder overhauls
Full Samco silicone cooling system hose upgrade and cooling system flush and refill.

Pirelli Rosso III tires (fitted 2020) with loads of tread.

I purchased the bike in June of 2020 and had a complete suspension overhaul performed by Trackside Suspension and Engineering of Darien Wisconsin that performed a complete rebuild and replacement of all internal suspension components. A Hyperco blue rear spring replaced the original. Suspension is currently set for a 140-150lb rider.

I have only performed around 500 miles on the bike since owning. A simply amazing and correct full respray was performed by (Artissimo Designs, Waukeshaw WI) that took care of accumulated road wear and my own carelessness in the garage. (Tipped over removing from wheel stand) They also made repairs to minor cracks and crazing that had accumulated over the years. The results are phenomenal. In addition I replaced the brake pedal and lever and gave it a full complement of new factory fasteners.

Own an appreciating and beautiful beast from the 90s and a piece of Ducati history. These are still pretty affordable and sound awesome and surprisingly many parts are still available through the dealer system.

Bike has a clear Wisconsin title. The bike comes with a workshop manual, original complete tool kit, both keys, original ECU, and receipts for the work performed as noted.

Thomas also has a cold start walkaround for your viewing pleasure –

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The 851 blazed a trail for Ducati’s decade of WSBK championships as well, starting in 1990 under Raymond Roche. The model was so sport-oriented that Ducati had to develop other designs for around town and sport touring. Though riding season is winding down, Thomas’ 851 could make a beautiful early start to next year.

-donn

Quattordici – 1990 Ducati 851 Strada

Published April 27, 2022 by Mike

Update 4.27.2022: We last saw this 851 in May of last year and now it’s back on eBay with fresh pictures as well. Current bid is $8,000 and the reserve is met. 4 days remain on the auction. Links updated. -dc

What a wild spring time we are having here at RSBFS! There appears to be a nearly inexhaustible supply of rare Ducati 851 examples in all different conditions and price points. We’ve posted so many of these lately that I’m tempted to cut and paste the historic details on the model from earlier posts, but I’ll spare you the lazy journalism. These bikes are cool enough to talk about over and over and over again. So without furthering any ado, let’s dive into this 1990 Ducati 851.

1990 Ducati 851 Strada for sale on eBay

The 851 is an iconic model simply because it began the lineage of the modern day Ducati Superbike. From the early days of the singles, through the era of the bevels, right into the Pantah era, Ducatis were defined by the 2-valve desmo actuation and for being air cooled (simple and light). The 851 threw out all off that and more by plonking a unique 4-valve desmo head (based on a 1970s University thesis, and with some help from Cosworth) atop a new barrel structure that was liquid cooled, allowing for tighter tolerances and far more heat dissipation. These two elements were maximized via the use of additional new technology – fuel injection. The result was 105 HP (power increased over the years) at higher RPMs than previous models, and with a willing chassis and good aero the 851 was born. And with it, the ground work for more than a decade of dominance in WSBK.

From the seller:
1990 851
Vin ZDM1HB6R2LB001226
Engine HB6L001286

Beautiful Ducati 851

Barely ridden since I got it a few years ago.
Idled often and kept on battery tender.
New battery
Fresh gas
Sorry no service history other than the gentleman I bought it from few years ago had his mechanic go through it thoroughly.
Most ducati folks like to do their own maintenance as it’s fairly easy so you’d probably want to do fluids, look at belts, tires, chain.
Fires right up, idles great, drives, shifts, brakes, lights work… all good! Just went for a quick ride, love this bike but downsizing and this one needs a new home with someone to ride it more!

Only thing I notice is the rear brake light does not brighten when depressing the rear brake pedal. Probably an easy fix. The front brake lever does activate the brake light.

No mirrors on this bike but I may have an extra set from a 900ss I have. Negotiable on including these.
Bike has usual nicks and scratches, but no dents or dings on tank. Note the bottom section of one fairing has a spot that is chipped/scratched. Zoom in on the pic. Not noticeable when fairing is on bike. Bike could use a good cleaning. I’ve always kept indoors.

Please look at pics and examine closely. I’m happy to chat or take closer up pics of anything.

Today’s model is the Strada – meaning street. This is the lowest spec of the 851 class, not to damn it with faint praise. It is simply the most comment variant, which includes a passenger pillion and associated hardware. In fact, all the 851 examples posted on RSBFS in the last month have been the Strada edition. This particular bike has higher mileage than its posted peers (21,000+ claimed), and like most 30 year old motorcycles it has experienced some mods and mishaps. On the mods front I spy a tinted windscreen and non-factory handgrips. More concerning is the lack of mirrors (and why). The rest of the bike looks presentable and the plastics appear to be in good shape, although there is some weathering of the black parts such as the forks, top clamp, and engine cases.

The seller notes that this bike has not been ridden much as of late, and there is a lack of service records. The oil in the sight glass does appear dark and in need of a change, but color is rarely an accurate indicator. Belts should be done as much as for time as miles, and would be high on my list of to-dos. While this is a doable chore for the home mechanic, it is a bit more involved than on your average 2-valve Ducati thanks to the extra systems in the way. Valve adjustments can also be done by the home mechanic, but you will need tools specific for retrieving and measuring the shims, as well as a way to obtain the necessary-sized shims to complete the job. This one is being offered as a Buy It Now of $12,500, with the seller open to offers. That is a strong price considering some of the others that we have seen recently, but the good news is that the healthy supply allows for some shopping around. Check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!

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Strada-rific: 1992 Ducati 851

Published March 10, 2022 by Mike

Last Friday RSBFS posted a glorious Ducati 851 SP2. Today’s find – while only a plain-Jane 851 Strada (which actually displaces a true 851cc), is no less a fantastic machine, is offered at a MUCH lower price, and is itself a worthy object of our drool.

1992 Ducati 851 for sale on Cycle Trader

In 1992 the 851 Strada (or street bike) was the base model in Ducati’s Superbike lineup. That provided an entry point into the liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, 4-valve Desmo performance category, but still allowed for two-up seating and – at least from a capacity perspective – room to grow. 1992 was a transitional year for the Superbike model, with both the 851 and 888 sharing the stage. Ducati had already homologated the 888 engine in the 851 SP2, and therefore the mid-tier and top tier Superbikes were branded with the mark of the triple-8. The final year for the 851, 1992 also represented perhaps the most refined example of the breed. Much was known about the model at this time, aftermarket parts were plentiful, and reliability was (for a high-strung Italian supermodel) superb.

From the seller:
Ducati 851, iconic bike recently serviced, in great condition part of my collection up for sale

Not a ton of detail on this one, but the pictures show a properly outfitted man cave and other Ducati Superbike siblings in the mix. There is some difference between the pics, whereby one shows a smoked windscreen and carbon front mudguard, while the others show a stock 851 with the proper stock pieces in place. The exhaust cans have been replaced, but no details on brand. Serious buyers might wish to enquire as to what state of bike will be delivered and if stock parts are still available. We typically see bikes of this nature on the likes of eBay or BaT – however this particular example is listed on Cycle Trader. You can check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!

Understated: 1990 Ducati 851 SP2

Published March 4, 2022 by Mike

The Ducati 851 as a general model launched the Italian manufacturer into WSBK super stardom. Instantly competitive on the racetrack, the 851 began a run of championship titles and spawned a new line of track-worthy superbikes for Bologna (a trend that continues in both WSBK and MotoGP to this day). The 851 started it all by ushering in a new era of liquid cooling, 4-valve desmo heads and fuel injection, all wrapped in the instantly recognizable trellis frame. But today’s bike, a rare SP2 model, started yet another Ducati trend by upping the ante from the standard Strada base model and introducing a larger capacity engine under the covers: the mighty 888. Sure, the bodywork says 851, but this was no ordinary 851.

1990 Ducati 851 SP2 for sale on eBay

While the triple 8 bowed in showrooms alongside the base 851 in 1992, the top spec 851 already proved the value of the motor in 1990. And by stuffing the bigger motor in the 851-branded bike, the SP model allowed for homologation – and therefore became a valid entry in WSBK competition (won in 1990 by Raymond Roche). The SP2 was more than just an 851 with a bigger (better) motor. The transmission more closely resembled the close-ratio unit found on the 851 Superbike Kit update, suspension was upgraded to higher quality Ohlins units front and rear, front brakes were upgraded to cast iron floating rotors, and the single seat tail section was suspended by an aluminum subframe. All told, the dual injector 888 roared and snarled its way to a stout 115 HP.

From the seller:
You are bidding on a 1990 Ducati 851 SP2 it is estimated that Ducati only produced 400-425 units of the SP2 model, this is example is #390. Throughout the run of the 851 and 888 Ducati released five special production runs designed for homologation purposes; The second model (SP2) was introduced in 1990 and came equipped with the legendary 888 engine, fuel injection, and Ohlins suspension. The SP2 was also equipped with many other special model features, below this description I have listed all of the special features the SP2 models were equipped with. This particular 851 SP2 model is in all original condition with the exception of the Termignoni exhaust pipes, and has an exceptionally low 6526 kilometers (4059miles) on the odometer. But please feel free to read more about the specifics of this bike and look at the pictures for verification.

More from the seller:
All of the body panels are in excellent condition, there no cracks or any paint nicks anywhere. The white frame does have some very faint cracking from age but no major chips. Overall the motorcycle is a 9.5 out of 10 cosmetically. Mechanically the bike runs and rides perfect, there are no oil leaks anywhere and all of the engine paint is in good condition. All of the electrical components work as they should; lights, blinkers, horn, speedo, tach, temp gauge, all work properly. The bike just had a full service tune up so mechanically everything was inspected and replaced if necessary with original Ducati parts.

When new – and if you could find one – you would expect to pay just on the other side of 20 large bills (MSRP) for an SP2. Today the market remains strong for these remarkable rarities; especially one as clean and low mileage as today’s find. Prospective bidders should note the lack of a 17 digit VIN, indicating this is an imported bike; the Veglia speedo is marked for KMH only. For states with a 25-year rule, registration is likely possible – but buyers are cautioned to do research for your own locale. And registration is important, as who wouldn’t want to fire up this bad boy and do the needful? Check out all of the details here, as bidding has been aggressive and the reserve still in place at $18k. Good Luck!!

6 Responses.

Year of the Duc: 1991 Ducati 851

Published August 30, 2021 by Mike

Unsold at a significantly higher asking price earlier this year, this beautiful 851 has been relisted at $13,999 OBO. Links updated.

The year of 2021 needs to officially be renamed as the Year of the 851. I cannot recall ever seeing such an inventory of these milestone machines (check out a search of the RSBFS archives here). So what is so special about the 851? In a nutshell, the 851 contains 3 separate technologies that were a first for the Bologna manufacturer: 4-valve heads, fuel injection and liquid cooling. This combo kicked off a winning spree in WSBK and solidified Ducati’s approach of being a race team that occasionally builds street bikes. Today’s find is an exceptional 1991 model, which includes the popular white frame and wheel combination. I won’t go into the gory details of the model – check out the link above for that – but will simply remark that this is a well-represented version of this model and year.

1991 Ducati 851 for sale on eBay

From the seller:
Beautiful and well-maintained 1991 Ducati 851 Superbike for sale by owner. Have all of the original paperwork and maintenance records, as well as 2 original keys. Iconic and classic motorcycle in mint condition. The bike is all original parts and works flawlessly. Timing belt replacement and valve adjustment have both been done in the past few months. New tires were also fitted 6 months. Always kept indoors in a temperature controlled space. It hurts me to let go of this beautiful piece, but it is time to sell to someone who has the time to care for this motorcycle.

Today’s bike shows a few more miles than some of the museum want to be machines that we have seen previously, but it is obvious it has enjoyed some care and feeding deserving of the breed. Belts and valves are critical for this model, and both have been addressed recently. That means that this beauty is ready to ride off into the sunset right now. Both seat and windscreen look to be aftermarket, but neither should be considered deal killers. The rest looks to be completely stock, right down to the stock cans and stock clutch cover. The asking price on this one is a seemingly high ~~$17,000~~ (now $13,999), but the seller is open to offers. Check out all of the details here, and let us know what you think: Is 2021 the Year of the 851? Good Luck!!

Like a Weed: 1990 Ducati 851

Published June 2, 2021 by Mike

The year 2021 has declared open season on the Ducati 851! I can remember few times when so many of these Bologna beasts have come to market – and all in such clean and low mileage condition. This is really a buyer’s market as we have seen a windfall of these liquid cooled, fuel injected, Desmoquattro Superbikes. Check it out yourself by searching the RSBFS archives on the model.

1990 Ducati 851 for sale on eBay

The 851 was Ducati’s entry into the true Superbike category. It was to cement the company as a full-fledged player in the sport bike game, and catapult them atop the rostrum in WSBK. It was really the trifecta of liquid cooling, fuel injection and the 4-valve heads – each a first for the company – that created the big bang event that was to become the 851. But often overlooked was the evolutionary aspect; the base motor was created on Pantah DNA, the trellis chassis has roots into the 1970s, and the bodywork and style was very iterative of the MH machines. All together, this was much more the sum of its parts. The 851 began a new era for Ducati that continues to this day.

From the seller:
I am selling a few bikes from my private collection. This is nearly showroom museum quality, Low mile, clean, and in perfect running order. All original all the way down to the took kit. I Drive this bike once a week about 10 miles for a leisurely cruise to keep things fresh. This bike remains at one of my studios and gets cleaned weekly. I have several Ducati’s and have enjoyed the visual beauty of this classic in my sight almost daily. This specific bike and year was a major turning point for the brand and a must have for any Ducati enthusiast.

More from the seller:
It does have a few minor imperfections shown. It does have the original tires on it , and work well for the driving i do with it. The only mod i have done is the exhaust , which i ordered from Italy 🇮🇹. Fluids and all maintenance has been performed. This bike is registered and insured with a clean CA title in my name. This bike will deliver with the original chrome exhaust that came with it in almost perfect condition if you prefer that it can easily be changed in 15 min. Please feel free to ask any questions as I love motorcycles and am happy to talk about them. Thank you and good luck:)

This particular bike is from a private seller in CA – and shows only 6125 miles on the clocks! That is pretty darn “near new” when it comes to a thirty-something hypercycle. And better yet, it is mostly stock and not heavily modified as some we have seen. There is some minor damage noted, but otherwise appears to be a well-loved and pampered example of the breed. The white frame and white wheels really pop on these earlier 851s, and this appears to be a good find for anyone in the market for one of these amazing machines. There are zero bids on an opening ask of $12k, so there is still all to play for here. The ask is not outrageous for the bike, but the higher starting price might be scaring off potential bidders. Check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!

One Response.