The Start of Something – 1991 Ducati 851

In the racing world – both MotoGP as well as World Superbike – Ducati is on a roll. Leading both championships by a strong margin, it would be fair to trace that racing dominance back to the 1972 breakthrough of Paul Smart and the legendary green-frame 750 win at Imola. But if you search for the true watershed moment, the start of a new beginning for the small firm from Bologna, there is only one bike that kick-started Ducati into enduring racetrack dominance: the iconic 851. Significant in that Ducati simultaneously upgraded the Pantah-based desmo mill with a trifecta of go-fast goodies – namely liquid cooling, four valve heads and fuel injection – the 851 represented the birth of the Ducati Superbike. It was immediately successful on the racetrack, spawned many generations of equally successful machinery, and continues to be coveted as a street bike to this day.

First introduced as a 1987 model, the genesis of the 851 goes back all the way to 1973 when engineering student Massimo Bordi presented a four valve, desmo-activated cylinder head design as a University thesis. Opportunity struck many years later when fate brought Ducati under Cagiva ownership; willing to invest in the Bolgna brand and with a strong engineering contingent (including Bordi), the desmoquattro plan was hatched. And while originally designed as a 750 F1 replacement, the resulting 851 shared the same 748cc bore, bolted to strengthened Pantah crankcases and internals. Ducati maintained the trellis frame design, but interestingly opted for a GP-inspired (and high tech at the time) 16″ front wheel which introduced some interesting handling characteristics. This was remedied by 1989, the 851 took the WSBK title in 1990, and by 1991 Ducati was planning ahead in terms of racing by introducing higher spec homologation models in the “SP” designations. By 1992 the party ended for the 851, but the story was far from over.

From the seller:
This 1991 Ducati 851 is a true masterpiece of ’90s motorcycle engineering. It is a World Superbike-derived machine designed to be fast and comfortable on the road. This particular example has been meticulously maintained and cared for by its single owner since new, and it shows in its immaculate condition – This Ducati was literally sitting in the living room as a piece of art.

The Rosso red paintwork is in flawless condition, with no blemishes or fading. The white frame is also in perfect condition, and the entire bike looks like it just rolled off the showroom floor. The bodywork, engine covers, and wheels are free from damage or corrosion.

More from the seller:
This 851 is not just a showpiece, though. It is also a fantastic motorcycle to ride. The improved suspension and wheels that were introduced on the later models of the 851 make it a joy to ride on both the street and the track. The engine is powerful and responsive, and the handling is sharp and precise.

This is a truly rare and special motorcycle. It is a must-have for any collector of vintage Ducatis. It includes the original Ducati tool kit stowed under the seat, the owner’s manual, and the original Ducati Owners Card. It is also a great choice for anyone who wants a fast, comfortable, and stylish motorcycle that they can enjoy for years to come.

Already in 1991 the 851 SP models were being bored out to create the next Ducati sensation, the 888. This model, in turn, opened the development door for the 916, the 996, the 998, the 999, and 1098 to follow. And while the Panigale Superquadro engine was heralded as an all new design, it owes its roots back to the fabulous 851 having benefitted from the lessons learned. There is a reason the 851 remains desired among motorcycle enthusiasts, for it is a timepiece that set the course for where Ducati is today.

This particular example of the 1991 model year 851 is a Strada specification. This is the base model, which offers a pillion for two-up riding, and the standard 851cc powerplant. The seller notes it has been updated with a SIL Moto complete exhaust, and the carbon cans really do help make the picture (and audio track) complete. There are lots of great pictures of this one, and the presentation is very good. The seller is asking $14,295 for this one in a Buy It Now format. That might feel a little bit higher than you typically expect for the model, but appears to be inline with similar asking prices over the past year. These bikes are solid performers, reliable and insanely good looking sport bikes.

Check out all of the details here, and Good Luck!!

– MI