Designed to be the ultimate 996 at the time, the SPS (Sport Production Special) is an incredible combination of performance and beauty produced from 1998-2001. The limited edition SPS was an uprated version that featured a modified engine and chassis.
Nearly all the specifications were improved such as the lighter Marchesini 5-spoke wheels…
…and Ohlins rear shock.
Its distinctive dual headlight and smart red and white bodywork are an evolution of the iconic 916, designed by the legendary Massimo Tamburini.
Engine work included titanium connecting rods, upgraded cams, and a lightened crankshaft. The SPS also got a bigger generator and Termignoni pipes. All this was good for an additional 12 horsepower, and the modified chassis made the whole package that much sweeter.
Technically, you weren’t supposed to enjoy said package on the street – the SPS was only road legal in Europe. Ducati didn’t conform to EPA regulations, so they sold it as a ‘track-only’ bike and made buyers sign a waiver saying that you wouldn’t register it for road use.
As you might imagine, pretty much everyone ignored the waiver, as the bike came with a VIN, lights, a title, and everything needed to register the bike.
Manufactured in November 1998, this example is VIN: ZDM3SB5V0XB001935, Engine #: SB5X003866.
The odometer shows 8,122 miles.
It is #496 of 1,780.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection, and the following service work:
-New battery
-Re-install rear brake line
-New rear brake master banjo bolt
-New front and rear brake master cylinders
-New clutch master cylinder
-New reservoir hardware
-New timing belts
-Replace chainguard
-New drive chain + link
-New chain sliders, upper and lower
-Install missing hardware
-New water pump gasket
-New coolant
-New coolant drain bolt
-New mesh screens, front fairing
-New airbox gaskets
-New air filters
-Install new bits of missing hardware and grommets
**Torque all critical fasteners**
Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Good
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: Ok
Coolant Quality: New, <150 mV
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: New, <1.5% Moisture
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: New, <1.5% Moisture
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: New, <1.5% Moisture
Final Drive Condition: New Chain
Headlight High Beam: Ok
Headlight Low Beam: Ok
Passing Light: Ok
Parking Light: Ok
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light (Front Switch): Ok
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 90%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 90%
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 43/17
Tire Date Code Rear: 29/17
Tire % Remaining Front: 90%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 90%
Tire Press. Front: 34 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 36 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 12.9V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 13.8V
Running Condition: Ok, runs on bench
Test Ride Completed: None taken
Test Ride Distance: 4 miles, unit operates as designed
REPAIRS RECOMMENDED:
-Tires
Modifications:
Ohlins Road & Track FG43 forks – the original Showa forks (correct for a 1999 model) are included.
Aftermarket radiator protector.
Aftermarket wide angle mirrors.
Battery tender lead.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Michelin Pilot Power 2CT with date codes of 2917 and 4317.
The sale includes two keys and the OEM Showa forks.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Ducati is offered on a clean California title with Planned Non-Operation registration. The California DMV estimates that it would cost $158 to make registration current through May 2027.
Have any 996 SPS stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
