Description
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Though it was originally introduced in 1994, the Ducati 748 didn’t come to the United States until 1997. That means we already knew what our European colleagues thought of it in advance – and the reviews were glowing. It was almost identical to the 916, sharing everything from styling to even the majority of the bottom end of the engine.
The main differences were a narrower rear tire (180 vs 190) and different cylinders/heads. As the pistons were smaller and traveled a shorter distance, Ducati was able to raise the redline to 11,500 rpm. This resulted in 95 horsepower and a power delivery that thrived on revs as opposed to the lazier, torquier nature of the 916. The slight sacrifice in peak horsepower paid off in even better handling thanks to the reduced weight, and Ducati’s signature trellis frame was complemented by a varying suspension setup depending on the trim level.
The ultimate offering of the 748 was the non-street-legal RS, a homologation special built in very limited numbers. As part of this exclusivity, you got carbon fiber bodywork, 54mm Termignoni exhaust, upgraded cams, and no pretenses for street legality. In fact, even the wiring harness was set up for race only work.
This example is VIN: ZDMH300AA1B011549, engine #: ZDM748W4B002775. The seller purchased the bike new from Advance Motorsports in Dallas, Texas. He notes that it is “one of just a few (I believe only 12) that came into the US and sold by Advance Motorsports Jeff Nash for the AMA Pro-Twins Race Series. I have owned since new and it has not been on the track since 2005. As the photos show this is not a race prepped street bike, it is a genuine Ducati purpose built Factory Race Bike.”
There is no odometer; true mileage is unknown.
Maintenance:
Per the seller, “The engine has been completely gone through with EMS collets now installed in the heads which will extend valve adjustment intervals. The crank was sent out for inspection and was found to be within spec and did not require rework. The Titanium Rods were sent out and reworked to factory specs. New standard size rod bearings were installed as well as $400 a piece rod bolts. The cylinder bores were perfect and New RS pistons were installed. The Cam Belts are RS Spec and new.”
Modifications:
“The bike is very original with the exception of AMS Ducati Adjustable Steering Head Clamps and Brembo Clutch and Brake Radial Master Cylinders.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop slicks that have aged out.
The sale includes a set of new Ducati Corse Carbon Fiber bodywork, as well as a selection of parts and service manuals, several new rear sprockets, and the pictured rear stand.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“The chassis has a few scars and the carbon fiber body work on it has some repairs under the paint. These bikes did not forgive any lapse of attention by the rider.”
“The RH muffler has a crack in the carbon fiber canister.”
Currently located in Thornville, Ohio, this Ducati is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any 748RS stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
