Posts by tag: Carbon Fiber

Ducati January 21, 2020 posted by Mike

Back in Black: 1997 Ducati 916 Senna lll

The Ducati 916 continues to turn heads today – at a spry and sprightly 26 years of age. The design appears timeless, and has been emulated ever since it’s introduction, not the least by Ducati in follow-on models and then again later by MV Agusta. The sharp, aerodynamic fairing, the single-sided swing arm and the high exhaust create an aggressive look that is fully backed by the 55.9 cubic inch, 90 degree V-twin with desmoquattro valve activation producing in the neighborhood of 114 angry ponies at over 9,000 RPM. Four WSBK championships in a mere five years tells the performance story.

1997 Ducati 916 Senna lll for sale on eBay

But if the Ducati 916 is ice cream, the limited edition Senna offering is the whole fudge sundae. The recipe is a good one: Start with (arguably) the most iconic motorcycle ever created, but make sure you base it on the highest spec version of the model possible (SPS). Give it unique paint (plus, in this case, carbon fiber), give it star power (Ayrton Senna, one of the greatest F1 drivers of the modern era), make it exclusive (numbered editions limited to 300 units) and make it count (the net proceeds were donated to Ayrton’s charitable foundation for poor children in his native Brazil). Mix gently and you have one of the most collectible editions of one of the greatest bikes ever made.

From the seller:
Ducati Senna lll no. 224 out of only 300 made. Its never driven. it says 2 km on the clock Only for display. Everything is original on it.

First presented at the Bologna Motor Show in December 1994, the 916 Senna was a special edition to commemorate Formula 1 World Champion, Ayrton Senna, an avid Ducati enthusiast who endorsed its release shortly before his death in May 1994.[18] At the time, the project was facilitated by the fact that Claudio Castiglioni, Ducati’s owner, was a personal friend of Senna’s. In total, between 1995, 1998 and 2001, Ducati released three “Senna” editions and, in every instance, net proceeds were donated to the Instituto Ayrton Senna charity.

Today’s example is like many 916 Senna Editions – practically brand new. This particular bike shows only 2 KM on the odometer – which is barely delivery / push-around mileage. The black livery with red wheels pops in the light, and the crisp photos show a bike that has been unmolested – right down to the large number plate bracket on the tail that is so oft discarded. This bike appears to define the term “museum quality” and while it seems criminal not to ride it in anger (as Senna himself would have done), this example really does deserve an honored place to park indoors where hoards of Ducatisti can drool and dream. If you think you can provide that kind of home to this very special bike, all you need to do is pony up a minimum of $25,000 USD to get the auction going, or $33,000 USD to Buy It Now. You will also need to arrange transportation from Denmark, where the bike is currently located. Check it out here and then start spiffing up the man cave for the ultimate 916! Good Luck!!

Ducati November 15, 2019 posted by Mike

Who’s Next? 1995 Ducati 900 SS SP

The Ducati 900 Supersport series is one of those bikes that is just so solid that it persists in company that is far more exotic, expensive, and technologically advanced. Even in the day the 900 SS was a bit of a dinosaur – an air-cooled, 2-valved, carburetted throwback to the 1970s – while the competition was spending wildly on technology such as fuel injection, liquid cooling, multi-valve per cylinder, variable valve timing, turbocharging and more. But you can’t hide greatness – and the bones of the Supersport were truly great. Comparing the 900 Supersport to the same year 916 is a bit like comparing a basic cheeseburger to a dry-aged ribeye steak. But you know what? That cheeseburger can be a mighty satisfying meal in the end. And so too is it with the 900 Supersport – especially the SP model such as today’s example – it has all the basics to be a truly great bike. And continues to be to this day. If you are looking for a fantastic ride without the flash, farkles and other nonsense, you’ve come to the right place. Today’s seller is clearly an enthusiast and it is worth reading a few of his own words about this bike:

1995 Ducati 900 SS SP for sale on eBay

From the seller:
Ducati 900 Super Sport
1995
Sports Production (SP) Model with Fully-Faired Chassis Production Run #412
Desmodromic 90 Degree Twin-Cylinder Engine Six-Speed Transmission

Model Specific Details Per Owner
This motorcycle has been preserved exactly as one would want. Period. I have gone to great lengths to minimize any unnecessary changes that would otherwise compromise what Ducati intended this bike to be. Obviously a blood-red Italian work of art needs nothing in the way of cosmetics, so let well enough alone.

I felt the best use of any improvements would be more of personal expressions such as un- restricting the exhaust to allow the bike to actually sound like a Ducati should with a set of Remus canisters. These match the factory equipped carbon fiber components much better than any others in my opinion. To facilitate the most from the exhaust, I perfectly jetted the carburetors. No flat spots, nor burning eyes, and of course the results are impressive for the torque curve of an already excellent engine.

To welcome more fresh air into the carburetors, I added the Genuine Ducati air-box cover. I’m sure others with hole saws and hack-saw blades get the same results, but i chose OEM whenever possible. As far as the Slave Cylinder, the stock one seemed to lack feel and a clean return. Off it went and was promptly replaced by the excellent unit from Pro Italia. Regarding the braking system, it is what it is. Nobody was impressed when new, the same remains today. I added Ferodo pads at both ends and have felt these are aggressive enough for a spirited run through the curves. The brake lines are shockingly original. I’ll leave YOU to replace them with fresh, likely stainless-steel braided models. They will certainly be an amazing upgrade.

More from the seller:
The dry clutch is holding its own in the fully enclosed carbon cover and has been gently used. The tires are fresh, new Metzler’s, of the sport touring variety. The chain has plenty of life in it, and the sprockets are newly replaced. All good stuff to head out with confidence.

In 2013, I decided to have the fine factory trained mechanics at The Motor Cafe in Sunnyvale, California pull the top end off the Duc and take a look around to see what it needed to keep on living. Not surprising to me, because of my impeccable maintenance schedule, and my gentle albeit, frequent abuse of the mountain roads, three out four of the valves, and their many clearances were just at, but not over recommended tolerances. One valve was now due for adjustment. I decided to go the full service treatment and get a bit more done.

This is what was performed: cylinder heads stripped and cleaned. Checked for cracks. New copper/beryllium seats. New Del West valve guides. New OEM Ducati valves and hardware such as keepers and rings to hold it together. The pistons were cleaned up and received new rings and the cylinder bore was prepped appropriately. It was all buttoned back up leak free for the next go round.

More from the seller:
Following this, the carburetors were checked for synchronization. The fuel filter was replaced in the tank and the gasket around the filler as well. A new front odometer drive unit was installed which I purchased back in 1998 when still available along with a fresh set of wheel bearings to smooth things out. Out back, the linkages were greased too.

A few additional things too mention about this machine. I have replaced the original clear windscreen which is still in excellent shape, with an OEM Ducati “smoke” model to help preserve the appearance of the instrument cluster. With that in mind, please take note in the accompanying photos the genuine Ducati carbon fiber gauge enclosure. This is not a common item as far as I’ve come to notice. Also, the front fender is BRAND NEW. I still have the original, which also is in good shape. All the carbon on this bike is better than most for the amount of actual miles enjoyed in real sunlight. Anyone could certainly sand and clear coat the existing carbon if they would like too as a restoration option.

There is a LOT more text from the seller in the advert (I recommend you go check it out), but from what has been shared it is obvious that this was a well loved machine. And what is not to love? The basic bike feels like it has been hewed from solid rock. The big L-twin lumps a bit at idle, and thrashes in the upper RPM ranges. But in between the two is a wave of throbbing torque that grabs you out of one corner and launches you towards the next. And when you get to the next the excellent Brembos and the stiff, chrome molly trellis frame chassis do a great job of making the corner a no-brainer. Every bike should make you feel this good – but few do. This is a bike to be ridden… and by the looks of it, this one has. There are no fewer than 32,000+ miles on this bike, and it still looks new and ready for the next go around. And did I mention it is an SP? In the case of a 1990s Supersport, that means adjustable suspension (a great improvement, especially up front), floating front disks, remote reservoir brake and clutch masters, carbon fiber mudguard, and a wider rear tire thanks to a special aluminum swing arm. And let’s not forget the most important bit: a SP-specific serial number plate on the triple clamp. Some folks go so far as to call the SP model a Superlight with a passenger pillion.

Despite the low tech and the basic nature, 900 SS SP models continue to be desired by riders. That is no surprise as the basic SS platform is extremely forgiving and very capable. It is also very reliable. This particular example has a lot of miles, but it has obviously been lavished on as well. It has some upgrades, and some very serious maintenance. That is all very positive, as these are bulletproof bikes if kept up, as this one appears to be. This one just hit eBay with a Buy It Now price of $5,500. That is strong money for a CR model, but probably well in the ballpark for an SP that shows like this one. And did I mention the spares? There appears to be quite a lot. Check it out and let us know what you think. I believe someone will pick it up relatively quickly, as this is the kind of bike worth holding on to. So who is the next owner? Good Luck!!

MV Agusta November 11, 2019 posted by Donn

Beyond Measure – 2002 MV Agusta F4 750S SP-01 Viper

Happy Veterans Day and thanks to all those who have served ! -donn

Though MV Agusta is the acknowledged king of special editions, it would’ve helped to already be a very good customer to even hear about the SP-01 “Viper” kit, available for your F4 750S. Finished in Agusta’s blue and silver “special projects” livery, the bodywork and accessories are all carbon, and the kit included magnesium wheels, titanium frosted windscreen, alcantara seat, and Tamburini-signed airbox.

2002 MV Agusta F4 750S SP-01 Viper for sale on eBay

MV Agusta introduced the F4 750 in 1999, with Ferrari-aided head design, and four-into-four calliope singing about superbike power from 749cc’s, not to mention Massimo Tamburini’s swooping design. Electronic fuel injection made the high performance design usable day to day, and 49mm forks were fully adjustable as was the rear monoshock. Bespoke Nissin front brakes were 310mm with 6-piston calipers, and the alloy star wheels still look unique.

With more miles than most very exotic Italians, this Viper still looks excellent. The owner calls out some defects on the front rim, but they’re not visible in the pictures. Alcantara is a great gripping material but not impervious, and the seat confirms the mileage. Join my dissatisfaction with the photos, but good notes and description of the dealer-installed package are in the eBay auction:

This is one of the rarest contemporary kitted bikes to date with only 50 of these kits made for the world. As far as I was able to find out, 12 of these kits were slated for the US market, they have not been able to track them down to date. Truly The Art of the Motorcycle as MV says. It has Tamburini’s signature on the air box, a plaque of authentication, and an 18 karat gold corresponding number plate. The last one offered on the market was 8 years ago. There are some minor nicks in the paint as well as on the rim lips from tire changes prior to my acquisition. There is also a small ding or dent on the right lip of the front wheel, which was also as I purchased it but it does not affect the tire or ride-ability. I have not touched anything up to hide the minor flaws.

I took it to the 2012 Cafe Desmo show at Pro Italia where it took 3rd best in Italian superbike Class, beat out by two one off race bikes. They have the details. I purchased it with just over 24,000 miles and since I could not verify the service, it got a 100% service along with new Pirelli tires at 24,150. It was put on a California non-op in 2014 where it has remained in proper storage ever since. It was run twice a year to keep fluids clear. It has been a very rare privilege to have owned it these years, but time for someone to have something that almost no one else does.

The Corse Special Parts kit includes: silver/blue painted C.F. front faring, silver/blue painted C.F. air box with Tamburini’s signature, silver/blue painted C.F. fuel tank, silver/blue painted C.F. tail section, silver/blue painted C.F. left and right side fairings, blue painted C.F. lower fairing, silver painted left and right mirrors, blue painted left and right fuel panels, C.F. left and right air box panels, C.F. left and right air ducts, C.F. left and right wire harness covers, C.F. ignition cover, C.F. chain guards, C.F. exhaust guards, Titanium treated (blue) windscreen, blue Alcantara seat and bump stop, silver/blue painted magnesium 5 spoke wheels, 18k gold engraved number badge with kit number, limited edition certificate with kit number and wax seal.

With only fifty copies for the planet, no more than a dozen could have made it here. Riding most of the miles, the original owner got their money’s worth. Competition from the east wasn’t standing still, and after the introduction of the MV liter, the 750S was largely on the back burner. Renewed interest in lighter weight and usable power has led MV ( and others ) back down the displacement ladder, with 675’s and 800’s occupying the sport category once ruled by liters. With its exotic materials and sporty stature, the F4 750S with SP-01 might prove to have been looking into the future.

-donn

Beyond Measure – 2002 MV Agusta F4 750S SP-01 Viper

MV Agusta October 7, 2019 posted by Mike

For the children: 2002 MV Agusta F4 Senna

The Senna branded Ducati and MV Agusta special editions are all about friendship. Claudio Castiglioni is the principal figure in this equation; close, personal friend of F1 legend Ayrton Senna, and the captain of the ship for both Ducati and MV Agusta when the commemorative editions were released. In total Ducati offered 3 Senna editions of the 916, while MV Agusta created a tribute edition for both the F4 750 as well as the F4 1000. All net proceeds from Senna-branded bikes profited the Instituto Ayrton Senna, Ayrton’s personal foundation to care for poor and needy children in his native Brazil. Today’s example of the rare Senna breed is a 2002 MV Agusta F4, the 750cc variant limited to just 300 units world wide.

2002 MV Augusta F4 Senna for sale on eBay

The base MV Agusta F4 750 was no slouch when introduced. As is often noted, the F4 engine was partially developed by the Ferrari Formula 1 engineering team, and featured an inline four with 16 radially splayed valves. The intake trumpets were computer controlled and adjustable for length, allowing for better control of the torque curve depending upon RPM and throttle settings. Good for 126 horsepower in base form, the Senna model utilized the EVO 2 spec motor (which was blueprinted), providing an additional 10 HP and a slightly higher redline. Other bits from the EVO 2 were utilized, including parts for the never released SPR model (note the tach). Bodywork was carbon (instead of ABS), the wheels were model specific and a number plaque was fitted to prove authenticity and exclusivity.

From the seller:
are 2002 MV Augusta F4 Senna 173/300 with 7600 miles. 1 of only 50 imported to the US and the most beautiful IMHO. Always garaged and dealer serviced. I am the second owner having purchased in 2004 and owned for 15 years. I put on 7k of those miles.

Has Senna RG3 exhaust and chip installed. Includes Senna package wheel stand, cover, extra sprockets, and owners documents. Clean history and title. Never wrecked. The bike has been enjoyed and has had a few rock dings I have treated with touch up paint.

Recently came from dealer service with new battery and all new fluids. The bike is running great and ready to be enjoyed. Tires have plenty of tread but are older, (recommend replacement) otherwise, no other flaws to report.

Senna models are rare and tick all of the right boxes: exclusivity, carbon fiber, star power, stunning looks and great go-fast parts. New these would retail at a substantial premium over the standard S model F4. Hit the fast forward selector some 17 years, and prices have dropped to a point where mere mortals can afford – but still significantly higher than base model F4s will pull in. This particular bike looks to be well cared for across the span of two owners, with service records and some great extras. The BIN on this on is $12,500, with an opening auction ask of $11,500. So that should make the price expectations pretty clear. Check it out here, as we all know the MV Agusta F4 was the design Ducati should have used for the 999. With rare Senna livery this will be a stand out bike for years to come. Good Luck!!

Ducati August 29, 2019 posted by Mike

Featured Listing: 2005 Ducati 999R Testastretta

11.13.2019: This bike has SOLD! Congratulations to buyer and seller! -dc

To many fans, Ducati worship occurs under the totem of Massimo Tamburini. Famed for the 916 / 996 / 998 series of mechanized obsession, Tamburini made the mold. Time proved that he was a hard act to follow, as the man to take his place – the oft derided Pierre Terblanche – forced a new design direction for both the Supersport as well as the Superbike. The 999 was a dramatic departure from the earlier series, and many of the faithful considered it U.G.L.Y. Time is a funny thing, though. And while the 999 was a gut-check to loyal Tamburini fans everywhere, today it stands out as an exceptional offering unique and beautiful in its own right. Especially if you see one in person.

Featured Listing: 2005 Ducati 999R Testastretta

The 999 is not just another pretty face. Ducati strove to one-up the 998 in terms of overall performance – and in most ways it succeeded. Introduced in 2003 and immediately entered into competition, the Ducati 999 won the WSBK World Superbike Championships in 2003 (Neil Hodgson), 2004 (James Toseland) and 2006 (Troy Bayliss). This is an impressive track record for a brand that cuts its teeth on racing. The formula for the enhanced performance over the 998 was a simple recipe: Less weight. More power. And it wasn’t just performance that elevates the 999 from good to great – it is actually a comfortable ride as well. With adjustable handlebars, rear sets and the ability to change the relationship between the seat and tank, the 999 is a platform built to support a wider range of riders than previous Ducati Superbikes.

From the seller:
2005 Ducati 999R Testastretta
Vin# ZDM1UB5W45B013352

– 2459 original miles
– professionally gone through, got running
– new battery, belts replaced, new pump/wiring
– tank cleaned, oil changed
– light weight, lots of carbon fiber
– only minor blemishes from storage, sitting, little riding, no major damage of any kind.

Asking Price: $14,990

As with other Ducati Superbikes, the “R” spec of the model brings exclusivity, higher-spec components and greater performance. This is the closest you can get to a race-spec bike yet retains all of the necessary items to remain a street legal ride. And like the previous generations of R bikes, the 999R stands apart from the earlier base or S models thanks to an uprated engine. Displacing a full 999cc with an over-square bore/stroke, the 999R engine features titanium valves and rods, larger fuel injectors, and is good for an estimated 150 HP. Ohlins suspension front and rear are expected R-spec items, as are the radial-mount Brembos. The bodywork has been aerodynamically optimized for high-speed work, and is (of course) constructed in carbon fiber. There are subtle details throughout; from the strong box-section swingarm to the skeletonized triple clamps, from the centrally mounted tachometer to the integrated front turn signals. All deserve additional study.

Only 200 units of this incredible R-spec Superbike were created in 2005. Each set the new owner back some $30,000. Massively capable as well as rare and expensive, the 999R was the pinnacle of what Ducati had to offer in 2005 – and was THE sporting ride of choice. Today these incredible machines stand out in a special way; mainly because the WERE different than the original 916/996/998 models, as well as the cookie-cutter 1098/1099 and MV Agusta F4 models that followed. This is a unique machine that is utterly capable of transporting you up the canyon, down the freeway or around the track (and you won’t run into yourself on every corner). The 999R has enjoyed a slow appreciation in terms of fans and value, but that won’t last long. When the world wakes up and realizes the beauty and performance available, the laws of supply and demand will catch up quickly. With only 2,500 miles, this example looks to be in excellent condition and worth a closer look. Good Luck!!

Ducati July 12, 2019 posted by Mike

Dressed to the Nines: 2004 Ducati 749R

Much more than its bigger brother in different clothes, the Ducati 749 is very much its own bike with a unique personality. Smaller, lighter and trading off power for responsiveness, the 749 combines much of what you want in a canyon carver. The “R” version takes that same package, but wraps it in carbon and high dollar farkles to make it even more potent a weapon, and even more artistic. Haters of the Terblanche design will deride the details and proportions, but keyboard warriors and magazine page flippers don’t realize the in-person presence this design manages to pull off. Before you write it off, make an effort to see one in person. Maybe this one. Its a worthwhile exercise.

2004 Ducati 749R for sale on eBay

In general terms, the “R” in Ducati’s lineup brings the normal Strada (street) models closer to the Corse (race) spec. Brakes, suspension, engine and bodywork are usually all updated to more expensive, fully adjustable, more powerful, or lighter units. Adjustability abounds, allowing the rider to set the Ohlins suspension in terms of need. So too, are the seat-tank arrangement and the footpegs. The swingarm is a beefier unit, and lends to a more solid cornering experience. Radial mount Brembos are the best in the business, and handle stopping duties front and rear. The chassis is adjustable for rake, in the event you need to sharpen things up even a bit more. Bodywork is full carbon, and the graphics on the side panels are actually windows showing the carbon weave. The engine has been reworked from the standard 749 Testaretta, with a larger bore and shorter stroke. This configuration allows for higher revs, and power jumps up almost 15 ponies at the top of the rev range, to an impressive 121. As with other R models, the 749R is serialized with its own unique number plate attached to the gorgeous top clamp. The seller has included a lot of general Ducati info in the advert, so I have pulled lines specific to this particular bike.

From the seller:
I have both factory keys and the red programming key along with all owner’s manuals that were issued by Ducati at time of purchase. This bike has been stored in a climate controlled environment since new. Brand new battery installed. Pirelli Diablo Rosso tires are brand new.

This one-of-a-kind bike also features a full Termignoni 57mm Stainless/Carbon racing exhaust system, custom fuel injection tune. Rizoma rearsets

Mine comes with 2 tanks, I bought a regular tank so I can use daily for street riding, it’s smaller

While many would claim that the devil is in the design (748 = beautiful, 749 = u.g.l.y.), I would argue that the devil is truly in the details. And you have to get right in there to see some of the magnificence that is the 749R. Look at the rear adjuster, for example. It’s a slider type that allows for chain tension adjustment without changing ride height. The rear shock linkage works off of a flatter curve, which is more in line with the race bike. The front fork has an axle offset adjustment to allow for the change of trail. I haven’t even gotten into the magnesium bits and other unobtainium sprinkled throughout. The seller has even added some extra tasty bits, further enhancing performance. There is vast beauty here; one need only look to see it.

As it stands, the Terblanche-designed Ducati Superbikes have been some of the most under-rated limited edition models in some time. Because of the polarizing design these have not really appreciated in value in quite the same manner as the earlier Tamburini design. In truth, these are far more capable motorcycles than the original 916/748 line, and deserve a closer look. They have likely bottomed out in terms of value for the foreseeable future, and as this design ages it seems to take on a better outlook. If you are interested in the early Terblance bikes, now is a good time to go shopping. Check this one out here, as it has already has a nibble at the $9,500 opening ask. With no reserve, this beauty is going home with somebody. That somebody could be you. Good Luck!!

Bimota June 16, 2019 posted by Donn

Air Male – 2008 Bimota DB5R

Happy Father’s Day to all once and future Dads !

Emerging from the shadows of bankruptcy, Bimota introduced a supersport based on Ducati’s air cooled dual-spark engine, penned by Tamburrini disciple Sergio Robbiano. This second generation DB5R has the 1078cc engine, premium appointments, and an exciting and award-winning design.

2008 Bimota DB5R for sale on eBay

The core of the DB5R is Ducati’s 1078cc L-twin, with Marelli fuel injection tuned for Bimota’s exhaust good for 95 hp and a nice 76 ft.-lbs. torque. The lines of the chro-moly trellis frame echo through the seat sub-frame and fabricated swingarm. Frame connectors show off Bimota’s CNC machining as the bodywork and accessories showcase their carbon fiber technique. Premium Öhlins and Brembo components complete the luxurious but sporty picture.

Straight out of Silicon Valley, this DB5R is engaging even with the signs of a minor low side, the seat console more easily corrected than the scratched engine case. Not many miles but the new owner might be in for belts and tires. The aftermarket mirrors aren’t a bad match but stock would be my choice, plus a little reflector-ectomy. The first order of business would be more pictures. Comments from the eBay auction:

Original owner, bought from Scuderia West SF ( no longer sells Bimota but they can service it ) and original cost was around 40K.

It’s a beautiful and great winding road machine, but selling it as I don’t have much time to ride, and feel sorry for the machine.

Only rode casually around the Saratoga Mountain.

4046.8 Miles

Ducati 1100DS engine ( any Ducati shop can service it )

Updated with STM slipper clutch, Carbon mirrors ( so you can see the back )

‘DB5R’ number plate

Minor scratches on tail cover and engine cover. Repaired areas on edge of tail cover.

‘Service Required’ indicator always on ( the dealer could not figure out how to turn it off )

Comes with the owner’s manual, racing stand, and a battery tender.

The DB5R reviewed as a fine handler even if the dual-spark 1100 wasn’t too exotic. A pair of tank pads might be in order, as the winged tank was maybe a little too skinny for a good grip. Each Bimota model has its place on the peacock – rhinoceros spectrum, and the DB5R seems to be right in the middle, with a very together design built on a modern but uncomplicated powertrain. With just a few hundred sprinkled over the globe each year, you won’t see yourself coming and going. Just right to ride to the bike show, collect a ribbon, and ride home.

-donn

Ducati June 14, 2019 posted by Mike

Sixteen Candles: 2008 Ducati Desmosedici D16RR

The introduction of the Desmosedici was a typical Ducati bombshell to the world. Over the top in a manner than only a MotoGP bike for the street can be, the D16RR was exotic and wild, beautiful and dangerous, and horribly, horribly expensive. This limited production (1,500 units total, world wide) model saw the introduction of the V-4, with the nickname Desmosedici (sixteen in Italian) and D16RR referring to this new arrangement. The bike was as MotoGP as possible for a Federalized streetbike, and retained some interesting features inherited directly from the racing lineage.

2008 Ducati Desmosedici D16RR for sale on eBay

Essentially two L-twin motors placed side-by-side and firing together in a twin pulse manner, the D16RR was really an homage to the GP racer. Power from the 990cc mill was knocking on the 200 HP door, with 197 and change reported. As expected, RPM limits were raised over that of the twins, with max power occurring near the 14k mark. But it is not just about raw power. The Desmosedici remains pretty faithful to the racer with frame geometry, and top level Ohlins suspension and radial mount Brembo braking components (sorry, no carbon-carbon brakes for the street). The comprehensive electronics package even includes a data logger to help you develop as a rider. What isn’t metal on this bike is all carbon fiber. What isn’t carbon fiber is either aluminum (frame, cases, swing arm), magnesium (heads and wheels) or titanium (connecting rods, intake and exhaust valves). The frame is minimal, and hangs the rear suspension off in a stressed-member format. The seat and underlying structure is also cantilevered off of the rear of the engine.

From the seller:
2008 Ducati Desmosedici D16RR, #457/1500, 8076 miles. Second owner motorcycle with all service records. Original bodywork has never been used on the bike, was packaged by original owner/dealer when new and replaced with Catalyst Composites street kit. This bike comes complete with the ‘Race Kit’ exhaust, ECU, cloth cover and rear stand.

Notable mentions:
– New original bodywork, never used
– Extra gas tank
– Street and ‘Race’ upper fairings
– Matching rear Marchesini Genesi M7RR 17″ rear wheel
– Extra 17″ rear wheel modified for proper width, from 999
– Original rear 16″ wheel
– Race Kit Exhaust, ECU and cloth cover
– Ducati Data Analyzer
– Braketech iron rotors (with spacers, not installed)
– Original rear display stand (never used)
– New Pirelli Rosso Corsa II tires
– 1 new, 2 used Bridgestone BT-01 rear tire for original wheel use, 1 used front BT-01 (all in good, usable condition)
– Catalyst bodywork was recently repainted to get rid of rock chips around the leading edge of the side panels and mask
– All service records available

*Bike is up to date on its services. Most recent service, 7500 mile service completed at 7353 miles, by Moto Italiano in Santa Cruz, California. Also completed at this time was K&N air filter, new clutch and basket, LOF, fluid exchanges, valve check and adjustment,

** There are a couple of small (very small) chips in the left side of the gas tank, noted in last picture.

The fly in the ointment with race replicas is that they are NOT simply the race bike with lights. Because racers don’t have the electrical loads required by lights, horn and signals, they can often get away with a minimalist electrical structure that offers just enough juice to power the ECU and fuel injection – or even run total loss with no charging system at all. That doesn’t work on the street, where bikes need electric start, headlights which are on all the time, a working tail light and turn signals. The bigger alternator and battery takes space. The race bikes run dry sump lubrication, but again, that is less useful on the street and requires valuable space that could be utilized for the upgraded cooling system, the upgrade charging system or the emissions controls. And while you cannot simply take a MotoGP bike and call it a street bike, Ducati went through a tremendous effort to produce something like a GP bike. And if you were lucky enough to be close enough to the front of the line to get one, it would only cost you $72k.

If I’m to be honest, it was really the background bikes in the photos that originally caught my attention in this advert. The 916 is classic, and I love the RC45. But the NR750? That is even more over the top. And that just might be the problem with the D16RR. While a phenomenal achievement by a relatively small manufacturer – and certainly very, very exclusive – it somehow lacks the “OMG Wow” impact that such a high dollar amount warrants. These are truly amazing motorcycles in many, many ways, yet they seem to fail to ignite the interest and the curiosity of our readers. Meanwhile, this beautiful 8,000 mile machine (let that sink in – somebody actually rode this beauty a respectable number of miles!) comes with all of the “race only” parts and spares and has a complete service history. The BIN is set for $64k, but the opening ask on the auction portion is a mere $56k with reserve in place. Check it out here. I’d love to hear your thoughts in our Comments section about the Desmosedici, and if you drool over these the same way we look at smokers or other homologation machines. Good Luck!!