1998 Ducati 916 Monoposto
Frame no. ZDM1SB8S0WB012070
Engine no. SB8W012563
Since the days of the 750 SS, the Ducati V-twin has set the standard for the modern sporting motorcycle. Always technically brilliant, always the height of functional beauty in design, they have captured the heart of the capable and serious motorcyclist. Of the recent examples of the "two-wheeled Ferrari", the 916, introduced in 1993, has come as close as anything does to producing the sensation of riding a racer on the road. The brilliant technology of the frame with its single-sided rear suspension is allied to a thunderous 4-valve, liquid-cooled, desmodromic motor producing something over 100 horsepower and dry clutch, 6-speed gearbox, giving a top speed - on a track-day outing only, of course - of over 150mph, something undreamed of in an over-the-counter machine before. The late Massimo Tamburini-designed quick-release, sculptural bodywork is a motorcycle "wonder of the world" that will stand the test of time. Some say it's the most beautiful motorcycle ever offered. The company's all-conquering racing record at World Superbike events boosted the reputation of the road bikes making other makers' efforts seem derivative.
This example is a well ridden, well maintained 916, with the typical upgrades that were made in the early 2000s. Quality carbon fiber front fender and mufflers, silver-gray 5-spoke Marchesini wheels, red mirrors, black windshield, aftermarket brake and clutch hoses, re-shaped indicators and adjustable levers are but a few of them on this superb, very clean 916. The Los Angeles seller has owned this bike (one of several Ducatis all of which shared his constant riding) for many years and has put on the vast majority of the 9,503 miles.
