Single owner & 9,337 miles from new, 1999 Ducati 996 Biposto

• Single owner from new
• Only 9,337 miles from new
• Many improvements, with original parts retained

The Ducati four-valve era began with the 851 and 888 models, alongside a range of unfaired road models. The 888 eventually gave way to the 916 in 1994. The first model was the 916 Strada, which was joined by the 916SP (Sport Production) then the 916BP (Biposto). Then, in 1997 came the 916SPS (Sport Production Special), a limited edition homologation version with larger 996cc capacity, cast iron fully floating discs, Ohlins rear suspension, carbon fibre fairing and parts. The 996 arrived in 1999.

T162 JJC was purchased new by the vendor in February 1999 from Woods Motorcycles of Abergele, and since that time has covered only 9337 miles. Since acquiring the machine, the vendor used it most years up to 2015, but for very limited mileages only. Apart from the first service, carried out by Woods, the machine was maintained by John Hackett at JHP Coventry, a well-respected Ducati dealer who supported the Ducati press fleet, has provided race preparation for Superbike teams, and also TT and Macau GP bikes for top riders. It was fitted with Ohlins fork internals, the rear shock changed to an Ohlins item, and the spring rate altered. Racing carbon cam belts have been fitted, a JHP air filter, SPS Eprom, a Bucci slipper clutch, carbon cover, rearsets fitted, pillion rests removed, and a full race Termignoni 50mm exhaust. Mirrors are replaced with integral indicator-type ones, a bubble screen fitted, and the gearing changed for better acceleration.

Most of the original parts have been kept, and are included with the bike, along with front and rear paddock stands, and a battery conditioner. The bike has been datatagged, and fitted with a Cat 1 Ducati alarm. It has always been garaged, and on a battery conditioner, and serviced in accordance with Ducati requirements. Unfortunately, the owner is now unable to ride the machine, due to health problems, and has reluctantly decided that it is time to go to someone who can give it the use it deserves. As a former Senior Bentley Engineer, the vendor has been pleased with the servicing and advice from JHP, and after the last service in May 2014 he covered only just over 50 miles before laying the bike up in dry conditions. As a precaution, he has removed the fuse from the fuel injection circuit, and advises that the petrol tank should be flushed out before starting the machine. New racing carbon cambelts were fitted at the last service. However, the new owner should do basic re-commissioning and safety checks prior to use.

Documentation comprises a current V5C, an old V5, a quantity of expired MoT certificates, servicing invoices, the original Owner's Manual, service booklet. The original tool kit and two keys accompany the Ducati.