This is a UK 2002 Ducati 998S Bip. It has just over 4K miles from new, with supporting documentation. The first owner covered around 3800 miles and the bike was sold back into the original selling dealer. This first owner was a person of significant notoriety within the Global Financial community..and definately a talking point.
In 2012 the second owner bought the bike from the Ducati Dealer, used it once, and then due to back problems stored it in his garage along with a number of other machines. It was unused with him for 5 years and absolute coincidence brought us together on our first meeting at the NEC. At that point he had no intent to sell, however changes in circumstances required he sell up, to move home and by coincidence we met again, so destiny seemed to want me to buy it, so I did, immediately.
In all honesty I had been looking for a nice low miles 998S for some time so it didn't require too much thought on my part.
The rationale for trying to secure a 998S is the fact that this has the same 998cc Testastretta engine used to power the previous expensive, exclusive 996R. Sandcast, low sump engine crankcases, the Marelli 5.9M electronic engine management system, 54mm throttle bodies and large capacity airbox. Quite rare the 998S was produced in low numbers and in my opinion retains the styling of the iconic 916 but with the final developments ahead of the next generation, 999. I have had the bike checked with Ducati UK for authenticity re engine and frame numbers. I have the original tyres, which were fitted, dated 2001 retained for recording purposes, original chain and sprockets remain fitted. Termi system was fitted when bought, the original exhausts, biposta unit and front mudguard are all with the bike. As is the toolkit and all the books, service history and keys.
Having got the bike home I embarked on a major clean/ refresh and the following work was carried out;-
Engine;- (All genuine Ducati parts)
New cam belts and lock nuts
New Air Filters
New Fuel Filter and tank seal
New Spark Plugs
Oil Change and Filter
New Exhaust manifold gaskets and seals
New EVR clutch and DP pressure plate ( An excellent upgrade )
New 998 Clutch cover
Specialist Work
Rear Shock totally refurbed by Ohlins
Steering Damper refurbed by Ohlins
Exhaust Professionally polished
Top headstock polished
Plating several components
Others
New Number board tailpiece (Very expensive)
Carbon Front mudguard (fitted when bought)
Carbon heelguards (fitted when bought)
Carbon Hugger/chainguard
Carbon heatshield (fitted when bought)
Carbon V piece between fairings
Radiator protector
Removal malfunctioning datatool
Purchased excellent personalised number plate (in my opinion)
Brakes stripped, as you would expect all pads excellent - no replacement
New Power 3 tyres
Still to do
Carbon Airbox and new seal
Paintshield in selective areas
Maybe Scottoiler
Coolant flush
It rides absolutely beautifully - Not as nice as the 999S though..In my opinion :-) More images to follow