The DB1 brought Bimota into profitability when it was released in 1985. Designed by Frederico Martini, it was the company’s first Ducati powered machine, making use of the Pantah’s 750cc mil. For its successor — the DB2 — Pierluigi Marconi helmed the design and paired a 900SS powerplant with a hand made chrome-molybdenum trellis frame that extended the tubular design to the swingarm.
It came with 41mm Paioli forks and a rear Ohlins shock, both fully adjustable. The air-cooled V-Twin yielded 86 horsepower (a slight upgrade from the 900SS thanks to a different intake and exhaust system). Weighing just 370 pounds dry, nearly every press reviewed ended with a comment that it was the best Bimota yet.
With the DB4, Bimota both improved on its successes and also returned the bike to its roots. So, even though it shared an oval-section tubular frame similar to that found on the DB3 Mantra, it did away with the unconventional styling and raised bars in favor of some swept-back bodywork and clip-ons conventional of a sportbike. Of course, it was also offered in a sharp tricolore livery like the one being offered today.
As Cycle World found in its period review, “most riders would be hardpressed to find fault with the DB4. It’s a fitting tribute to the original that is destined to become equally collectible. Just the ticket for forgetting all about the Vdue.”
This example is VIN: ZESDB4005YR000005. The seller acquired it eight years ago from a well known collector in Ohio. he also sold two other DB4’s through previous Iconic auctions inlcuding this zero mile Bimota DB4, and this one mile Bimota DB4.
During his ownership, the seller has covered 2 miles. The odometer shows 2,761 miles.
Maintenance:
“Fuel pump, new battery, new plugs, oil and filter. Done myself.” The seller notes that it “needs tires, belt service, rear brake switch.”
Modifications:
Not pictured: 944cc big bore kit with revised carb jetting, US spec tank.
Keihin FCR39 flat slide carbs.
Full system Moto Corse titanium exhaust.
Marchesini wheels, Moto Corse front suspension conversion (triple trees, fork bottoms for Brembo monoblock calipers.
Moto Corse rear brake conversion, floating discs.
Moto Corse titanium oil cooler guard.
Moto Corse titanium fasteners.
STM clutch slave cylinder.
Cycle Cat bar risers.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Michelin tires with date codes of 3704 and 0405.
The sale includes two ignition keys, DB4 brochure, the tool kit, owner’s manual, warranty book, and a 2005 Moto Corse parts catalog.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Carroll, Ohio, this Bimota is offered on a clean Ohio title. Have any DB4 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
