Description
Additional photos on this 2003 Ducati FILA 999R are available here for your perusal.
Ducati introduced the 999 in 2003 amid much controversy over its styling, but the performance was beyond reproach. With its traditional L-twin desmo motor, it had high power and torque figures available even at low RPM, with linear power delivery throughout. Additionally, with its high spec suspension and trellis chassis, it is one of the finest handling motorcycles of its time.
The liquid-cooled L-twin (two-cylinder) Testastretta engine on the base 999 produced 124 horsepower at 9,500 revolutions per minute and 75 pound-feet of torque at 8,000 RPM. but the racing-oriented R model saw another 15 horsepower. The R was the top-of-the line model, and it weighed just 423 pounds. But if you wanted some additional exclusivity with your performance, Ducati had a special edition called the FILA.
The 999R FILA created by Ducati, who was no stranger to dressing up their street bikes in World Superbike garb, spitting out special editions left, right and center, put a little bit of extra muscle under the stylish suit with the 999R FILA. To celebrate its 200th win in WSBK, Ducati released only 200 examples of their top of the line 999R in the Team Ducati FILA livery of 2003. 75 were supposed to make it to the US but it’s possible that just 67 were initially imported.
The 999R FILA got a 10 horsepower bump over the standard bike, bringing the L-twin to a total of 146. The special paint was slathered on carbon fiber side and upper fairings, along with magnesium head covers and headlight support, WSBK inspired braced swing arm and forged aluminum wheels.
To finish off the exclusive design of this beautiful 999R FILA there is a limited edition numbered plate, affixed to the top triple clamp.
This example (VIN: ZDM1UB5W53B007041) is #17 of 200.
The odometer shows 3,761 miles.
This bike comes out of an estate sale in Texas so there unfortunately is not much history. The previous owner had several two-strokes and limited production Italian motorcycles, including a MV Agusta F4 1000 Tamburini and a MV Agusta F4 Ago that we previously sold here on Iconic Motorbike Auctions.
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us replace the belts, rebuild the forks, change the oil/filter, install a new battery, flush the coolant, rebuild the fuel pump, fabricate and fit air filter seals, flush the front/rear brake and clutch fluid, clean the injectors, and install new Pirelli Diablo Rosso II tires with date codes of 1020 and 3920.
We also had our painter touch up the right fairing and had GTL remove an aftermarket tank liner, clean out the tank, and reline it.
Angel did the work, he notes that the brake pads are at 75%/80% front/rear.
Modifications:
There are several decals on the bodywork and windshield referencing Ruben Xaus (as well as his race number of 11), the bodywork decals have been clearcoated over.
STM open dry clutch.
This sale also comes with the original clutch cover.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Inside of the tank:
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Ducati is offered on a clean Texas title. Have any 999R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!