1996 Ducati 955 SP

Up for auction is one of 54 factory built Ducati 955SP (aka 916SpA) Superbikes specially built to homologate the US Ducati Superbikes for the 1996 season. This is the rarest of all modern Ducatis, nd one of very few intact ones remaining, /p> In early 1996, 4 (more or less) of these bikes were sent to Fast by Ferraci for distribution to race teams planning to contest the US Superbike title. But just to be clear, hese were not bikes fitted out by Ferraci with a 955 kit. These were hand-made factory built homologation specials, ith lightened cranks, mm bigger valves, igh compression pistons, ankl connecting rods, pecial cams, nd a dual injector system.

An unknown number were purchased either by race teams or collectors. Most of the remaining units ended up in the UK. Of the original 54, o one knows for sure how many are now left, ut many of the originals were destroyed racing. One other side note, asimo Tamburini, he original designer of the vaunted 916 chose a 955 SP for his personal collection. (Reference Bennett’s Bike Social)

This particular bike is almost completely original, nd was not originally raced, nstead going to a collector and sometimes rider. I am the third owner, aving had it in my care for eight years. When I purchased it, he original engine cases were cracked, o I replaced them with the stronger SP3 cases sourced from Pro Twins in the UK. I still have the original cases, hough they are not repairable to my knowledge, nd they are number ZDM955W4*000004.

This 955 SP is in very, ery nice condition, ith the only noticeable damage being the tachometer glass that has a small crack on the bottom. Overall the machine is in striking, riginal condition, howing very few signs of wear. Even though it has more miles, his one is in much better cosmetic condition than one recently sold at the Bonham’s auction for over $27,000.

This machine has been recently serviced. The timing belts, oolant, il, attery, nd brake fluid have been replaced within the last 7 months. It is ridden regularly, etween 50 and 100 miles per month. It runs perfectly, ith no mechanical issues whatsoever. No smoking, luid leakage of any kind, r electrical problems. I strictly observe a 9,000 rpm redline, nd rarely take it over 7,000. I have been very lucky to have this fabulous machine in my care and treat it accordingly. It has 27,041 km, or 16,792 miles) from new. The top end has been re-freshed within the last couple years, nd it pulls very hard. In other words, here are no stories here that it needs “re-commissioning”. It is ready to ride, isplay or both.

For reference as to how I treat my motorcycles, ake a look at the blue BMW R100RS in one of the photos. I have owned this since new. It now has 120k miles on it, t is ridden regularly, nd it runs perfectly. It is not for sale, r included in this sale.

If you are local I would encourage you to take a look in person. The VIN Number is ZDM916S*007083 and I have a clear California title. A rear wheel work stand is included as are the original cases.

Listed for sale as-is and where is. No trades, nd sales are final. A non-refundable deposit of $500 is due and payable within 24 hours of close of auction. The bike does not leave my care until purchase funds are cleared by my bank. Local Pick up or I will work with your shipper, hipping arrangements are the buyer's responsibility.