Description
12/19 Update: We apologize for the oversight when initially posting this listing. As pointed out in the comments, this bike is titled as a 1995 model and a “special construction vehicle”. Additionally, because of a discrepancy in the VIN report, we have updated the mileage to “True Mileage Unknown.” Please reach out to sales@iconicmotorbikes.com if you have any further questions.
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: ZDM888S000711.
It is #136.
The odometer shows 2,891 miles. However, because of a discrepancy in the VIN report, we are reporting true mileage as unknown.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, we flushed the brake fluid and performed a safety inspection. Our service department notes the following in their condition report:
Fuel Tank Internal: Ok
Tire Years – Front: 4415; Rear:3515
Tire Life – Front/ Rear: 90%
Tire Pressure – Front/ Rear:32/34
Brake Life – Front/ Rear: 90%
Suspension Leaks – Front/Rear: None
Hydraulic Fluid – NEW
Drive Chain Condition: Ok
Engine Oil – Level: Ok; Quality: Ok
Coolant – Level: Ok; Quality: Ok
Low Beam: Ok
High Beam: Ok
Passing Light: Ok
Parking Light: Ok
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light: Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Killswitch: Ok
Horn: Ok
Battery: 12.9V; Charging: 14.2V
Test Ride: None taken, tires aged
Notes:
– Runs
– Misc. Scratches LH side
– Missing bolts from front fairing
**Age of belts unknown (recommended 5-year service life)
Please note: Iconic’s White Glove Service is happy to assist with restoration of the front and rear fenders!
Modifications:
Steel braided brake and clutch lines.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Pirelli Diablo Rosso II tires that have aged out.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Ducati is offered on a clean New York title. Have any 851 SP3 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
