Posts by tag: Carbon Fiber

Ducati February 24, 2021 posted by Mike

Righteous: 2005 Ducati 749R

The Ducati 749/999 series is often seen as the red-headed step child of the Italian world. Following the mega-successful Massimo Tamburini design of the 916/996/998 family, designer Pierre Terblanche was to pen the follow-on act. With big shoes to fill and great expectations to achieve, Terblanche offered the world the stunning – if not the somewhat acutely ugly – 999 and 749. With sharper, more angular lines than the more flowing 916 DNA, the 999 & 749 were characterized by a stacked headlight arrangement that did little to pacify the religious zealots of the early design. Judged solely by the cover, this was a book not worth reading.

2005 Ducati 749R for sale on eBay

Lo and behold, the 999 and 749 series today offers a stunning departure from the “me too” look of the wide-eyed, high tail repli-racers from any number of manufacturers. And time has been very kind to the overall design, making this bike look even better today than when it was introduced. This is *especially* true in person; the pictures fail to do justice to the myriad details that festoon these machines. And while earlier series bikes were quasi torture racks, the 749/999 brothers were multi-adjustable and downright comfortable – in addition to being very, very fast. Today’s 2005 Ducati 749R is being sold by an enthusiast (after all, it has fewer than 800 miles on the clock!), and I will let him pick up the story on this amazing machine.

From the seller:
2005 Ducati 749R
Milage: 774 Miles
VIN#: ZDM1UB3T35B009303

If not familiar with the 749R, this was Ducati’s upgraded performance version of the base 749 model. This particular 749R is 774 miles from new!!! Ducati 749R upgrades included titanium connecting rods, magnesium alloy valve covers, a shorter stroke, increased bore, larger valves, super lightweight crankshaft, high strength aluminum alloy pistons and remapped fuel injection all which allowed the 749R to produce more power and torque at higher RPM.

The stock 749 was rated at 108HP, while the 749R was rated at 121HP in 2005.

More from the seller:
Other features include carbon fiber covers designed for better cooling, larger fuel tank and slipper clutch standard! The chassis has an adjustable steering head and stated over 20mm of longitudinal adjustment of the seat to tank distance. The suspension featured the latest model of the Ohlins front forks and Ohlin rear shock available at the time. Finishing things off Ducati added an Ohlin steering damper.

All of this added up to a precise, nimble and very well handling Ducati! This bike is number 74 of at least 500 produced to meet FIM homologation regulations. A suggested retail price at the time of $21,995 made the 749R unobtainable for most.

More from the seller:
Upgrades from stock include a set of Sato Rear Sets, and a Paulimoto vented clutch cover. All other components are stock, even the exhaust! No accidents and all body work and paint is original!

Sold with:
Owners manual
Motor Holding booklet
Owners Club booklet
(2) Keys
Red key
Code card
Touch up paint stick
Assorted brochures

Ride it, put it in a collection, you decide!!

The world was not necessarily ready for the polarizing looks of the 749 and 999. Neither, it would appear, was the WSBK competition; the 999R won championships in 2003 (Hodgson), 2004 (Toleand) and 2006 (Bayliss). Such was the performance of this new platform in competition. The 749R – while a baby brother to the literbike – was no slouch itself. While down on capacity and therefore HP from the bigger bike, the 749 enjoyed the same chassis dynamics but added lightness to the equation. In environments where outright horsepower did not rule, the 749 could hold its own and then some due to an extremely stable chassis, fantastic brakes, Ohlins suspension, and a comfortable (and configurable) cockpit.

The seller correctly states that these R bikes were near unobtanium when new due to the high price and the relative scarcity. Today they remain rare. Thankfully most of the Terblanche-era bikes we see have been well maintained, and this one is no exception. In fact, I believe it raises the bar a bit. Stored indoors as per the photographs, this bike has very few miles and looks to be ready to offer a “choose your own adventure” scenario for the next owner. With a $14k opening ask the starting line to this auction is not outrageous, but there have been no bidders as of yet. There are several days to go, so click, drool and decide if you need this carbon fiber wonder to fill that hole in your garage or man cave. Then jump over to the auction here to check out all of the pics and specs, and show off your Terblanche love. Good Luck!

MV Agusta February 18, 2021 posted by Mike

Different Name Same Game: 2002 MV Agusta Senna 750

The name Ayrton Senna evokes some crazy raw F1 emotion. Arguably the greatest F1 driver of the modern era (uh, Schumacher and Hamilton excepted), Senna was in his day the highest paid driver and an international superstar. He parlayed some of that wealth and fame – not to mention his close personal relationship with motorcycle magnate Claudio Castiglioni known for the rebirth of Ducati and MV Agusta – to create a funding opportunity for his charity foundation looking after impoverished children in his native Brazil. Senna was a huge motorcycle enthusiast, and lent his name to Senna tribute models for both Ducati and MV Agusta. Today’s bike is a 2002 model MV Agusta Senna F4, based on the very successful re-launch of the MV Agusta brand.

2002 MV Agusta Senna 750 for sale on eBay

The F4 hit the press in 1998 as a 1999 model. Displacing 750cc (749.5cc to be exact) and sporting some novel engineering in the heads and intake runners (courtesy of Ferrari F1 involvement), the original engine developed 126 HP and was utilized in the Oro, the S, the 1+1 two-seater, and the Neiman Marcus Edition. It was not until 2002 that the EVO 2 spec engine was introduced – itself a product of a delayed SPR project – bumping power up to 137 HP, but at a lower redline. The Senna model was based on the EVO 2 spec, but was further blueprinted to allow for the full use of revs and then some: all the way to nearly 14,000 RPM. Festooned with the usual carbon fiber farkles, the black/gray/red Senna livery and unique number tag on the headstock, the Senna 750 was limited to 300 units worldwide.

From the seller:
2002 MV Agusta Senna in excellent condition. Number 218 of 300 made. Very rare. Clean NH title. Sold new by Fast -by- Ferrarci. Has Ferrarci risers, aftermarket LED tail light and rear fender eliminator, I have all parts removed as well as the accessories that came with the bike. (sport exhaust, sport chip, extra sprockets, factory cover) Runs and drives excellent, 3403 miles. I just have too much stuff!

In current markets Senna Editions are star-power bikes that come with exclusivity and some level of cachet. Originally conceived to be a funding vehicle for charity, today these are rare and collectible models worthy of note. We have seen several Senna models on these pages – both from Ducati and MV Agusta – and they always bring with them a stronger market than the base level bikes on which they were created. Such is the case with this model today.

Showing less than 3,500 miles and with some owner mods (original pieces reportedly come with the bike), this particular example looks clean from the photos provided. The red wheels highlight the single-sided swingarm stance, and the mods to the rear bodywork really show off the organ pipe shotgun exhaust. There are a number of watchers on this one, but nobody is piling onto the $7,000 USD opening ask. That is bargain money for a Senna Edition of any brand, however it remains to be seen where the reserve is set. There are a fair number of days remaining, so we may see some action on this one yet. Check out all of the details here. For those of you in more temperate climes, I believe that white stuff is known as snow/ice. Stay warm, stay safe, and Good Luck!!

Different Name Same Game: 2002 MV Agusta Senna 750

Aprilia February 16, 2021 posted by Donn

Dream Weaver – 2004 Aprilia RSV1000R Nera

Aprilia made a stab at the boutique superbike segment in 2004 with the magnesium engine and carbon fairing Nera. This wine country example looks excellent and comes at a substantial discount to MSRP.

2004 Aprilia RSV1000R Nera for sale on eBay

It was the first year of the second generation of Aprilia superbikes, and though outwardly similar, the RSV1000R and the Nera had some nice updates. Evolved from Aprilia’s 60-degree dry sump V-twin, titanium fasteners and CNC matching of the throttle bodies to the intakes allowed the Nera to claim 139 hp. Magnesium is used for the clutch cover, and hides the Pneumatic Power Clutch slipper unit. The new chassis and swingarm are fabricated from alloy stampings and finished in a gold tint evoking titanium. Wheels are forged in magnesium, and the radial-mounted Brembo brakes include an early adoption of the radial master cylinder, providing better feel under hard decceleration. Full fairings are executed in glossy carbon fiber, and incorporate a fresh air intake and a sharp integrated taillight design.

Nera’s are rarely offered and the few we’ve seen are barely ridden. This one is in very nice shape and the owner states it’s run just 1,300 miles, though the odometer isn’t correct. The Akrapovic cans came with the Nera but are not the titanium units sometimes shown. Just a bit of storage wear is mentioned but can’t really be seen in the inadequate photos. Not sure what is meant by the black rubber tank mentioned in the eBay auction-

2004 Aprilia Nera, one of only 200 made worldwide. This one is serial number 50. I believe less than 40 came to the United States, but I’m not 100 percent sure.

This bike is all original, including the tires. The bike has the carbon fiber gas tank that was included in the original purchase, but I do not have the black rubber tank that came stock on the bike. It is also missing the stock rear carbon fiber license plate holder and the exhaust that came on the bike from the factory. The full Akrapovik exhaust that came in a box with the original bike purchase is what is installed.

The bike has been sitting in my house for a while. The bike is not mint, but is very close to mint. There is not one knick or scratch on the magnesium wheels. All body work is very very nice. There is a very small crack in the lower bottom fairing, but it is hard to see. Otherwise, the bodywork is close to mint.

In 2004/2005 Aprilia’s, the odometer resets if the battery dies or is replaced, such as the case with this bike. I would just like to let that be known since the odometer has reset. If I had to guess, this bike has less than 1,300 original miles. The tires have plenty of tread and they are the original tires. The bike runs well overall. I do think the battery is discharging when parked. However, I just never got around to investigating to determine if that is true. This bike would need very little work to be considered a 10.

Plunking down thirty-nine large on a Nera put one in touch with a Dream concierge in Italy who coordinated a factory tour, a set of Dainese leathers, Aprilia helmet, and a VIP trip to a MotoGP event. Even as rarely as they have surfaced, the market hasn’t made a winning investment out of a new Nera. But whether this auction ends on a bid or buy-it-now, it might be a very rideable collector for the new owner.

-donn

Dream Weaver – 2004 Aprilia RSV1000R Nera

Ducati February 10, 2021 posted by Mike

The F1 Connection: 1998 Ducati 916 Senna #214

Motorsports connections are nothing new. From Marquez and Rossi participating in F1 tryouts to Schumacher and Hamilton carving tarmac on Superbikes, racers are at their core, well, racers. The number of wheels is not necessarily an issue for those that have the talent, means and connections. But with Ayron Senna, this connection went way beyond thrill seeking and pleasure. Senna was one who used his good name and substantial fame for good. Specifically, lending his name to projects that benefitted charity foundations in his home Brazil.

1998 Ducati 916 Senna #214 for sale on eBay

Identified via the specific Senna livery, the Senna edition 916 is really a sort of bitsa bike. It is a conglomeration of the Ducati 916 catalog, but nowhere near the ultimate spec Ducati 916. The chassis and suspension were pulled from the 916 SP production line (Ohlins, naturally), while the engine is essentially a 916 Strada mill – the base motor (in 1998 that base mill was good for 114 horsepower, so we’re not exactly talking about a dog here). The connecting rods were claimed to be different/stronger, but there was no additional performance claims made. Brakes were an all-SP affair with cast iron floating rotors and adjustable levers. The black bodywork features a solo saddle tail section with the SP-spec aluminum subframe, and the three spoke Marchesini wheels are painted a vivid red. this is topped off with a specifically numbered plaque ala all Ducati limited edition models – only this one also contains the Senna logo.

From the seller:
Originally registered, serviced and ridden in Italy from new.
Brought to US through an estate move. Never titled or registered in the US therefore Bill of Sale will be provided.
VIN and Authenticity verified through Ducati North America.

European market bike:
-14 digit VIN
-Speedo in kilometers
-on/off lights switch
-several other minor differences unique to the Euro market version

Beautiful cosmetically.
Near perfect mechanically.

More from the seller:
Many critical parts replaced with NOS ones I’ve had for years. If you’re familiar with this bike, many components used were the same as the SPS version from that year. The Senna should’ve been an SPS bike but sadly Ducati opted not to offer the SPS motor and injection specs on it.

No expenses spared keeping this Senna as special as it is:
-valves adjusted 2.5K Kilometers ago
-new battery
-new belts and plugs
-new bearings throughout
-new chain and sprockets
-new Oberon clutch slave
-Ohlins forks and rear shock serviced and refurbished to new condition
-Ohlins steering dampener
-brand new (NOS) OEM brake and clutch masters
-brand new (NOS) OEM calipers (same as SPS version)
-brand new (NOS) OEM rotors (same as SPS version) (impossible to find – paid $1,100 in UK)
-fresh paint due to a small crack in tail section and tank replacement
-brand new (NOS) tank and fuel pump (old tank had some rust I chose not to repair but replace with new instead)
-all original OEM plastic
-original OEM carbon fiber air box and undertail
-all carbon fiber Ducati Performance MS Production except for air tubes (original plastic ones included)
-brand new Ducati Performance slipper clutch
-brand new Termignoni Titanium half system
-known issue: engine oil leak (1-3 drops per week) which I haven’t investigated yet.

There are 3 different eras of the Ducati 916 Senna Edition, and each is slightly different in terms of graphics. The original Senna (Gen I) was released in 1995, production then skipped a year with the Senna II release in 1997, and the final Gen III in 1998. All were extremely similar in terms of specification. And in each case, proceeds benefitted the Senna Foundation.

This particular bike looks great in the photos, but the seller notes that this has been resprayed. That doesn’t necessarily raise the red flag as many Senna owners are perfectionists, but interested parties might want to be aware and look closely. My understanding of US bikes is that all had black mirrors, however the red hue on this example could be due to the Euro market or simply painted to offset the wheels visually. The good news is that for a bike originally purchased in Italy, it is available today in sunny California. There appears to be good interest in this auction (lots of watchers) and a current bid price of $5k with reserve still in place. These Senna models may not be the top of the heap when it comes to 916 performance, but the Senna name on practically anything guarantees interest from collectors. I would expect this to fetch more than a period correct regular 916 in similar condition, with better value retention/appreciation over time as well. Check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!

Sport Bikes For Sale February 6, 2021 posted by Mike

Flog It Like Foggy: 2002 Ducati M900 S4 Monster Fogarty Edition

It almost seems sacrilege to take one of the most successful Superbike riders of all time and honor him with a naked cruiser. But that is exactly what Ducati did for Carl Fogarty in 2002, bestowing his name onto a special edition Monster with serious potential. Only 300 units were made available worldwide, making these rare by nature.

The Fogarty Edition Monster was based on the vaunted S4 platform – essentially the love child of a Ducati 916 and the more pedestrian S2 (with some ST parts thrown in). The outcome was Superbike potential in a more street friendly package, with upright seating, a wide flat bar and improved ergonomics over the race replica. To this Ducati added the usual farkles including Foggy livery on the tank and the lower edge of the windscreen. Bespoke carbon side plates are more subtle, but clearly call this out as a Fogarty Edition. Finally, there is a badge on the top of the tank highlighting Foggy’s (and Ducati’s) #1 status, and within that badge the unique number of each particular bike. Today’s example is #196.

From the seller:
Up for sale is my 2002 Ducati S4 Foggy Edition. Very clean and always stored inside. I believe there were only 300 of these made and only 75 of them were imported to the U.S. Currently has aftermarket rear sets and clutch cover. I have the stock rear sets and stock clutch cover as seen in pictures. This bike also comes with original Foggy bike stands and bike cover. Manual is included as well along with the Red Key. Only selling because I am moving and need to downsize.

Besides the carbon and the livery, the only change made to the S4 Fogarty Edition is the rear height; the Foggy model sits slightly higher than the standard S4, presumably to quicken the steering and possibly to add more ground clearance. Other than that, it is a graphical exercise in color, carbon, and signature. Most of these bikes were destined for collector spaces, although a few have been ridden. Todays example shows nearly 5,000 miles – great to see these fantastic bikes being ridden!

Bidding on this bike has crossed into $8,500 territory with several days remaining on the auction. These have generally traded in the $11k and above price bands, so it is possible we are seeing a bargain in the making. There is no sign of a Reserve, meaning this bike is going home to the highest bidder. There are some great qualify pics of this unique machine, and you can check out all of the details here. Good Luck!!

Ducati January 28, 2021 posted by Mike

Classic Vinyl: 1993 Ducati 900 Superlight #681

The move from analog to digital in the audio world brought with it clarity, reliability and portability. Many things now became possible, including loss-less copies, sharing and remote delivery. What was lost was not immediately clear – but soon became recognized as fidelity. As rudimentary and basic as it was, analog audio had tone; it had feeling and soul. The Ducati Superlight was a LOT like analog audio – it was bested in many categories of performance, reliability and value, but delivers a tonal note and visceral feel unlike anything more modern. The Ducati 900 SS Superlight is a rare and special bike that continues to be a collector – and rider – favorite.

1993 Ducati Superlight #681 for sale on eBay

Starting out life as a plain Jane 900 Supersport, the Superlight brings a number of unique tricks to the party. First off, the SL is based on the higher spec SP model, which offers adjustable front suspension and wider rear wheel/tire combination. The Superlight adds to that by reducing weight through carbon fiber front and rear mud guards and very special composite Mavic wheels. The bodywork is different than more ordinary Supersport models as the solo tail section hints at the focused sporting intent of the model, as does the high-swept exhaust. The Superlight essentially offers more by providing less. Wrapped in an exclusive white frame/yellow bodywork livery and uniquely numbered ID plaque on the headstock, the limited edition Superlight is instantly recognizable and very bankable.

From the seller:
Almost new 900SS Superlight # 681 with 1100
Miles. I purchased this bike 9 years ago from the original owner in Colorado. One of the best part of this hobby is meeting new friends and building on relationships, networking with other collectors. Like Gary aka Utah Gary or Greg in Seattle so many more people.with that being said this bike is mint like brand new ( CA titled). I have never seen another one like it. It took me along time to hunt one down and this is the one. Thank you very much

Today’s bike is about as clean and low mileage as any Superlight we have ever seen. With just over 1,100 miles on the clock it has obviously been ridden, but the miles are low enough for this to be considered a nearly new motorcycle. And while some readers may have negative thoughts on people who don’t ride their bikes tens of thousands of miles, the seller is obviously a collector and has many, many motorcycles. It is always thrilling to discover someone who has a cache of unicorns, and if you are a regular reader you will start to see how extensive this individual’s collection might be (spoiler alert – there is more great stuff to come).

This bike looks to be very original, with the exception of the FBF carbon fiber cans. These are very period correct, and I’m sure really add to the legitimate L-twin soundtrack. The rest of the bike looks to be extremely clean and *exactly* what you would look for if you were in the market for a Superlight (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?!). Check out the pictures closely, and be sure and look at some of the other very interesting offerings from this seller. Jump to the auction for this very rare 1993 Ducati 900 Superlight right here, and Good Luck!!

Ducati December 31, 2020 posted by Donn

Starting Off with a Bang – 2008 Ducati 1098R #117 of 450

If you’re ready, the first ride of the new year could be on a rather special Ducati. Many 1098R’s have more accessories than miles, but someone enjoyed this one enough to farkle sensibly and keep maintenance is up to date.

2008 Ducati 1098R for sale on eBay

Ducati returned to the side-by-side headlights in 2007, with a perceptible cat-eye composition. The -R was meant for the racetrack, with many advanced components which had to be on board to allow them on the factory’s racers. A high-horsepower testastretta engine, trellis frame, single-sided swingarm, and underseat exhaust are found on every 2008 Ducati superbike. But the -R homologates the sand-cast 1198cc engine of 180 hp, with twin fuel injectors pointing down each 64mm elliptical throttle body. The Öhlins twin-tube monoshock allows ride height to be set independent of pre-load, and the fork ends are cast to receive Brembo’s monoblock 330mm brakes. Marchesini Y wheels speak lightness as does the generous use of carbon on the bodywork.

Offered by an enthusiast in eastern Pennsylvania, who states it has 4,356 miles, but doesn’t show the dash lit up. Rizoma levers, clutch cover and rear sets are sharp, and no damage is apparent. Photos are good but not exhaustive, and either way a pre-purchase inspection is in order. Just a couple of comments in the eBay auction:

1098R #117 of 450. Clean, well maintained. Never raced, never abused. Never wrecked. Pristine example. Choice Rizoma controls and bits. Serviced for belts and valves last year. No issues, ready to go collector’s piece.

With its modernized electrical and cooling systems, the 1098 was almost a practical superbike. Traction management and a data-analysis dash pushed it well into the 21st century. The semi-trellis frame lends an accessibility to the 1098R, that riders of previous superbike generations can appreciate.

-donn

Starting Off with a Bang – 2008 Ducati 1098R #117 of 450

Featured Listing November 5, 2020 posted by Donn

Featured Listing – 2018 MV Agusta F4 LH44 New In Crate !

The Lewis Hamilton Edition F4 is a sight to behold. As exotic as a recent MV Agusta is, the LH44 has quite a few special MV and LH touches.

2018 MV Agusta F4 LH44 ( New Zealand ) For Sale

As an update to the F4 RC, itself a template of the 2018 WSBK mount with ride-by-wire controls and many bespoke components, putting the LH44 a step above is not a trivial exercise – but a full titanium exhaust and accompanying ECU program boosts power to 212hp. It shares most of the RC’s innovations, MV’s Torque Shift System stretches the torque band, and a full electronics package has selectable maps for power delivery, traction control, and of course ABS. A factory quick-shifter and slipper clutch make going faster even easier.

As with many limited editions, finishes and materials play a large part. Just 44 of the mostly carbon LH’s were painted with Hamilton’s choice of candy apple metallic, with a unique white frame, and Öhlins finished their signature gold dampers in black to blend in. The leather and alcantara seat continues the red and black theme, the smoked windscreen lies low, and even the Pirelli Diablo SP tires came with a red graphic treatment.

RSBFS reader Matt represents the owner of this LH44, which has never been out of its original shipping crate, explaining the limited photos of the actual machine. It’s number 41 of 44, and though it’s in New Zealand, the factory packaging is ideally suited for trans-oceanic delivery. He had these comments recently:

A very rare opportunity to purchase what is probably the only Lewis Hamilton F4 still in its crate in existence today.

This bike is number 41 of 44 units built, with Lewis himself taking three units for him and his family leaving just 41 of these incredible machines available to the worlds market.

Also included is an extra set of special Pirelli tyres with red stripe and LH44 logo are included, I believe these were a limited production run and an extra set is certainly more desirable for a discerning buyer.

The asking price is $75,000 USD and Matt will coordinate with the buyer’s shipper. Contact Matt via email – here -.

Since his partnership with MV Agusta, Hamilton has only added to his record, eclipsing his rivals and heroes on the Formula 1 circuit. Hard to imagine this would do anything but increase the value of his first superbike project. As this example is still yet to be uncrated, it might be a very special collector bike for an unequivocal superfan. Reach out to Matt for additional information via email – here -.

-donn