No matter how many calendar pages flip or what new technology comes out of the showroom, Ducati’s 996 will always be a “must have” experience. Today’s example shows moderate miles, new belts and Pirellis, re-freshed cosmetics, some nice updates, even a spare biposto seat and subframe.
The 996 was an almost automatic successor to the 916, the more robust powerplant played well with the trellis chassis, and didn’t try to fix what wasn’t broken. Dual fuel injectors in each 54 mm throttle body begged for lower gears and more throttle, penciling riders in on Johnny Law’s appointment calendar. The -S had lighter Marchesini wheels, more carbon accents, and Öhlins dampers all around.
From the seller
Excellent condition, bought in 2009 from previously owner, mileage now shows 12,956, all paint has been repainted, wet sanded to 2000 and clear coated, new timing belts, zero miles on new Pirelli Diablo Rosso tires, Termignoni exhausts, carbon fiber front wheel cover, air box, radiator cover, chain cover, Moto-science mirror turn signals, Pazzo double bubble smoke windscreen, mono and dual seat and sub frames, anodized aluminum clutch and chain covers, have original mirrors and windscreen, chain and clutch factory covers. Recent repairs include new fuel pump, front and rear pads, battery, rear sprocket.
Other attributes of this 996S are carbon bits that are in great shape for being 25 years old, or may have been rejuvenated with a shot of clearcoat. The wheels also apparently were refinished, shown in a beautiful satin black, a departure from the factory gray. Exhaust wrap might beat an onerous polishing job, but not sure how well they’ll age or help the pipes underneath. The red suede seat should be grippy and the detailing continues on under the fairings.
The $19K ask seems above the current range, though a make offer button is provided.
In part because of the WSBK technical arms race, the 996 wasn’t a long-lived model and the more modern 998 succeeded it after only a few years. This helps the rarity factor and a numbered 996S is still a find. While a 996 belongs on everyone’s bucket list, best not to let that list get too long before you try one!
-donn
