Description
Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 1991 Ducati 851 SP3. Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
The 851 was a quantum leap for Ducati, with a new trellis frame, liquid cooling, fuel injection, a dry clutch, and the first successful implementation of Ducati’s legendary desmodromic valve actuation with a four-valve cylinder head, known as Desmoquattro – it formed the blueprint for decades of Ducati Superbikes.
As Steve Rose put it in his 851 Buyer’s Guide for Bennetts, “Ducati’s 851 might not have shifted many units but it still managed to change motorcycling, save Ducati and make Superbike racing ten times more interesting.”
Throughout the run of 851/888s, Ducati released seven “Special Production” runs designed for homologation purposes. 534 of them were under the 851 SP3 moniker. The SP3 retained several key parts from the SP2 – the 888cc motor, close-ratio transmission, Ohlins suspension, and Brembo brakes…
…but it got additional upgrades such as a carbon fiber front fender, remote master cylinders, and stronger clutch/crankcases. Whether or not you think the black wheels are an upgrade – well, that’s subjective. What’s not subjective was the power bump to 111 hp thanks to a 11:1 compression ratio.
This example is VIN: 7AT05707X17000969. This number was assigned to the bike when it was imported into New Zealand years prior and is the VIN listed on the title. From the factory it has VIN: ZDM888S000969; Engine: ZDM888W400086. The seller purchased the bike through Bonhams five years ago. He is selling to reduce his collection.
It is number 403.
The odometer shows 10,494 kilometers (6,520 miles).
Maintenance:
The seller states, “In 2015 we did new tires, zero miles, brake fluids, timing belts, gas tank interior hoses filters, O-rings replaced. External EFI hose replaced using quality compression clamps. Shorai battery new in 2015 works well today. Runs with fuel conditioner. Put away with drained gas tank. In 2024 sales prep included using non ethanol Sunoco 95 gas, starts easily. Brake and clutch fluids changed. Engine run to temp and confirmed fan operation. All hoses examined and clamps secured. Coolant level checked and no leaks.”
Modifications:
Aftermarket bodywork and turn signals.
Duomo wheels.
Okumura Magical Effect suspension.
Tinted windshield.
Not shown: Aftermarket brake master cylinders.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Michelin tires with date codes of 2714 and 4814.
The sale includes one key and tool kit.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Greenwhich, Connecticut, this Ducati is offered on a clean Arizona title. Have any 851 SP3 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
