Description
Please note: As this bike has been on display for the past decade, we kept the running video short to avoid damaging the belts.
Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
When Ducati introduced the 999 back in 2003, there was no shortage of controversy over its styling; however, the performance was beyond reproach. The L-twin motor offered plenty of grunt even at low rpms, and its linear power delivery made it a thrilling ride at all speeds. Moreover, because of its up-spec suspension and stiff trellis chassis, it showed itself to be one of the finest handling motorcycles of its time.
On the base 999, the liquid-cooled Testastretta engine produced a solid 124hp at 9,500rpm and 75lb-ft of torque at 8,000rpm. Assuming you wanted something a bit more race-ready, Ducati also offered an upgraded R model that saw another 15 horsepower. Better still, though, was the bike’s weight — it tipped the scales at a svelte 423lbs.
No stranger to dressing up its street bikes in World Superbike garb, Ducati put out special editions left, right and center. Of particular note was the 999R FILA, a model created to celebrate the Italian firm’s 200th win in WSBK. Accordingly, just 200 examples were released — 75 were supposed to make their way stateside, 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’s output up 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 is VIN: ZDM1UB5W03B007058. The seller is an avid collector and motorcycle dealer who will be listing ~15 motorcycles with us in the coming weeks. Part of the funds will be going towards a new Triumph dealership in Los Angeles.
The odometer shows 3,548 miles.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us replace the battery, perform a safety inspection, and make a list of recommended repairs. Angel did the work, he notes the following in his condition report:
Tire Year Front/Rear: 1113/0513
Tire % Front/Rear: 95/95
Tire Press Front/Rear: 32/34
Brake % Front/Rear: 95/95
Hydraulic: BAD, Moisture >3%
Oil: OK/AGE UNKNOWN
Coolant: LVL OK/ HAS BLUE COOLANT
Low Beam: OK
High Beam: OK
Turn: OK
Tail Light: OK
Brake Light: OK
Plate Light: OK
Kill: OK
Horn: OK
Battery: NEW 12.68/13.2 CHG
Notes:
• EVIDENCE OF PREVIOUS BATTERY LEAK ON BATTERY TRAY
• MISSING BOLTS FOR INTAKE TUBE TO AIRBOX
• HAS BLUE COOLANT, UNKNOWN IF ORIGINAL
** Original blue factory coolant known to be corrosive.
• BIKE RUNS.
RECOMMEND:
• BELTS
• ALL FLUIDS
• TIRES
• CHAIN SERVICE
• AIR FILTERS
“10” stickers on front fairing and tail section.
It is riding on Michelin Pilot Power 3 tires with date codes of 0513 and 1113.
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 California title. Have any 999R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!