Highlights
- Limited-production, high-performance variant of the standard 748
- Finished in striking yellow paintwork with period-correct decals
- Reported full restoration around eight years ago
- 50mm carbon Termignoni exhausts
- Advisory-free MOT until July 2026
The Appeal
The 1997 Ducati 748 SPS is one of the most celebrated models from Ducati’s golden era, blending exquisite Italian design with true racing pedigree. Built as a homologation special, the SPS featured upgrades over the standard 748, including SP camshafts, high-compression pistons, and H-section Carillo con rods, all engineered to raise rev limits and deliver thrilling top-end performance. Its lightweight chassis, desmodromic V-twin engine, and precise handling made it a favourite among riders seeking both performance and style.
This particular example was first registered in August 1997, with the photos indicating an odometer reading of 11,827 miles. The vendor states that the bike underwent a complete restoration around eight years ago and a full overhaul last year, which reportedly included the fitting of new Kevlar belts, tyres, and brakes. Finished in bright yellow paintwork with period-correct decals, an alloy sub-frame, and a carbon front fender, the overall presentation appears smart.
The seller also notes that the bike has achieved success at shows on two occasions and has been kept covered in a garage for the past five years, only used for special occasions. Mechanically, the 748cc desmodromic V-twin and 6-speed gearbox are complemented by features such as an Öhlins rear shock, Brembo fully floating brake discs, and carbon Termignoni exhausts. Accompanied by a Ducati handbook, Alpha Dot Security Marking paperwork, and an advisory-free MOT valid until July 2026, this 748 SPS presents as a well-cared-for and visually striking example of one of Ducati’s most admired 1990s superbikes.
The History & Paperwork
- First registered in August 1997
- Last V5C issued in August 2012
- The photos indicate an odometer reading of 11,827 miles
- Some service history and invoices from work carried out
- The vendor advises the bike “underwent a complete restoration eight years ago”
- Advisory-free MOT until July 2026
- We’re also told the bike “received a full overhaul last year, including new Kevlar belts, guaranteeing reliability and performance”, and has more “recently been serviced with new tyres and brakes”
- Ducati handbook and Alpha Dot Motorcycle Security Marking System paperwork is present
“For the past five years, it has been carefully stored in my garage, covered and only taken out for special occasions”, says the seller.
The Condition
- Finished in striking yellow paintwork that presents very well
- Alloy sub-frame
- Carbon front fender
- Period correct decals
- OEM instrument cluster with both MPH and KM/H
- Mono seat appears in good condition with minimal sign of wear
- The seller notes “the bike has made a name for itself, winning at shows twice, which speaks volumes about its immaculate condition and aesthetic appeal”
The Mechanics
- 748cc desmodromic V-twin engine
- Petrol
- 6-speed manual
- SP camshafts for longer duration
- High-compression pistons
- SP con rods, made of strong H-section steel by Carillo, said to “raise the rev limits to provide thrilling top-end performance, allowing for sustained high revs typical of racing demands”
- Cast iron Brembo fully floating brake discs
- Ohlin’s rear shock
- 45mm standard exhaust system and a specially designed 45-50mm link pipe (without baffles), along with 50mm carbon Termignoni exhausts
BEFORE YOU BUY
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