Beschreibung
Ducati 998S Final Edition. 1 genuine factory delivery mile from new. Factory supplied to order in deep sump 136hp UK market (European) specification with UK mph speedometer from new. This bike has never been ridden but importantly is also registered for the road on a UK 2004/”53” plate. It has the original book packs, factory papers, original purchase invoice, air conditioned storage invoices, tool kit etc. and is 100% original. It has had one owner from new. Still with the pre delivery stickers and bobbles on the original Michelin Hi-Sports. Stunning, totally as new and the best example you will find.
As standard these UK and European models are equipped with Ohlins front forks, Ohlins steering damper, Ohlins rear suspension, Brembo four pad calipers, 320mm Brembo semi-floating front discs, carbon belly pan, 50mm Termignonis and the 136hp deep sump testastretta engine with Pankl titanium rods. This particular bike holds strong investment potential being an unridden example of the final model in the iconic 916-998 lineage with the desirable European/ UK market 136hp deep sump engine specification. (It’s worth noting that all USA market final editions and 998S models only received the non deep sump crankcase base specification 123hp motors with 45mm Termis).
As far as rarity, there were approximately twice as many first year (1994) model 916’s produced as final year 998SFE’s.
When the 916 was at the initial design stage, the designers always intended to develop a 1000cc engine for it as permitted by the World Superbike regulations but launched with their existing 888 engine slightly enlarged to 916cc. Their originally envisaged engine evolution was ultimately achieved with the advent of the 998 testastretta engine in 2001 first used in the 996R to universal accolade. It went on to win the 2001 World Superbike Championship.
To mark the end of the 916-998 era Ducati employed substantially the same components used on their first “R” model, the 996R. For example, the same all-important 136hp deep sump engine with Pankl titanium rods as the 996R and the same chassis with Ohlins and Brembos as a 996R. European market 998SFE components are the same as the 996R with the exception of the 996R additional carbon parts. The distinguishing fine details of the 998SFE are a textured seat pad material, lower tinted front screen, painted mirrors, FE plaque, tricolore flag and a tank decal celebrating 8 constructors’ titles and 115 world superbike wins.
I have seen no other delivery mile European spec 916/ 996/ 998’s of any type for sale for a number of years. This example is not only also road registered, it has the further advantage of a choice of correct unused monoposto or biposto seats which may be quickly interchanged.
An iconic thoroughbred. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and important motorcycle series ever made and in the finest condition with a perfect provenance.
Serious enquiries welcome.
