Lot Ended
Description
Rare homologation model; one of only around 900 made in total;
only 10,563kms from new with 5 service invoices; few owners, the current for 12
years; original exhausts, paddock stand and bike cover included
Produced from
1994 to 2002, the 748 was the smaller displacement version of the 916, both
designed by Massimo Tamburini, with a 748cc Desmoquattro engine which could rev
to 11,500rpm.
Ducati produced several variations
of the 748, starting with the basic 748 Biposto (‘two seat’) in 1994 and then
the more powerful 748SP version from 1995 – 1996 and 748SPS version from 1997 –
1999. In standard form the engine produced around 95bhp but the SP and SPS were
in a higher state of tune and came only in Monoposto (‘single seat’)
form.
The 748SP was produced in limited numbers
to homologate it for World Supersport racing. Extras over the base model
included special camshafts, Carillo con rods, high compression pistons, engine
oil cooler, Ohlins rear shock absorber, fully floating cast-iron
Brembo brake discs and a special exhaust system. A yellow bike cover and
rear paddock stand were also included as part of the package.
Whereas the base 748 cost around £8,900, the SP
cost around £12,250 (equivalent to £30,000 today). Exact production figures are
hard to come by, but most sources state that around 900 of the 748SP models were
sold in total.
The original purchase invoice
shows that this 748SP was sold new by Daytona S&B Motorcycles of Middlesex
in November 1996 and cost £13,250 including pre delivery package and road tax.
First registered in February 1997, it has had four owners to date, our vendor
acquiring the bike in May 2014 to join his collection of classic cars and bikes.
Ridden briefly when he first acquired the bike,
it has been kept on static display since, 10 old MOTs on file showing that it
had covered 10,347kms (6,430 miles) when the last MOT was issued in June 2014,
the odometer currently showing 10,563kms.
There
are a dozen or so invoices for regular upkeep and new parts fitted, including
five services, the last in June 2013 at 6,116kms (see last photo for summary).
Termignoni carbon exhausts were fitted by Daytona Motorcycles in April 1997,
along with a carbon rear hugger, a Datatool alarm/immobiliser system and a chip
of some sort (it isn’t clear if this was a performance chip or a security chip).
Supplied with its original handbooks, original
exhausts, original paddock stand and original yellow bike cover, this all adds
up to a great package for the Italian bike collector.
Last ridden on the road in 2014, this rare Ducati homologation
special will no doubt benefit from a degree of recommissioning and a
thorough service before being put back into use once more.
Consigned by James Dennison – 07970 309907 – james.dennison@brightwells.com