In this 2006 First Ride on Motorcyclist, Brian Catterson notes that he had first been given the opportunity to ride the SB8K in 2000, but the next morning at WSBK in Misano, “the Bimota truck was nowhere to be seen. Drowning in debt from its failed Vdue two-stroke project, the company had gone out of business.”
The SB8K Santamonica (named after the race track now called Misano), was the successor to the SB8R, and it had tremendous potential – Catterson noted that “what I would have written back in 2000, had there been a point, was that the SB8K was the best twin-cylinder sportbike I’d ever ridden; more than a match for the reigning Ducati 996 and miles better than the rotary-shocked Suzuki TL1000R from which its engine was derived.”
Bimota claimed 143 horsepower and a dry weight of just 385 pounds for the SB8K, but by the time it was actually released the design was nearly a decade old and bikes like the Ducati 999 had surpassed the Bimota dynamically. And the price point didn’t help – MSRP was a staggering $45,900, $15k more than a 999R. As you’d expect, the components were top notch – Ohlins 43mm forks and monoshock, radially mounted Brembo brakes, OZ forged wheels, and ample carbon fiber.
Manufactured in July 2005, this example is VIN: ZESS899626R000017.
The odometer shows delivery mileage.
Modifications:
This bike appears to be stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on the original Dunlop tires.
The sale includes HOW MANY keys.
[PLACEHOLDER: PHOTO OF KEYS/EXTRAS]
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Nevada, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Bimota is offered on the original MSO. Have any SB8K Santamonica stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
