Ducati 999

The Ducati 999 superseded the Ducati 916, Ducati 996 and the Ducati 998 range of superbikes in 2003, and was produced through 2006. This motorcycle enjoyed great success in the World Superbike Championship, and continues to be raced in the series despite no longer being produced, pending rules changes by the series' governing body, FIM, to allow competition of the new Ducati 1098.

The 999 was designed by Pierre Terblanche, amid much controversy over its divisive styling; it was heavily criticized by some, whilst being hailed by many. It is known as an extremely high performance, race orientated motorcycle. With its traditional Ducati L Twin Desmodromic Valve actuated engine layout, it has a linear power delivery, with high power figures available even at low RPM figures, and, of course, extremely high torque levels. Additionally, with its high spec suspension componentry, rigid yet communicative trellis chassis and weight distribution suited to communicative, sharp and accurate steering, it is one of the finest handling motorcycles for its time.

Subsequently, more powerful 999S and 999R (equipped with 102dB Termignoni race-spec exhaust) versions were introduced, both capable of 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in under three seconds; and a top speed of over 170 mph (+273,5 km/h).

Specifications (2005)
Engine: Liquid cooled, four stroke, 90°“L”twin cylinder, DOHC, desmodromic 4 valve per cylinder.

Capacity: 998

Bore x Stroke:100 x 63.5 mm

Compression Ratio: 11.4:1

Induction: Marelli electronic fuel injection, 54 mm throttle body

Ignition / Starting: Marelli electronic / electric

Max power: 140 hp 103 kW @ 9750 rpm

Max Torque: 109 Nm - 11.1 kgm @ 8000 rpm / 80.4 lb-ft @ 8000 rpm

Transmission / Drive: 6 Speed / chain

Frame: Tubular steel trellis

Front Suspension: Showa 43 mm upside-down fully adjustable fork with TiN surface treatment, 125 mm wheel travel.

Rear Suspension: Progressive linkage with fully adjustable Showa monoshock, 125 mm wheel travel.

Front Brakes: 2x 320 mm discs 4 piston calipers

Rear Brakes: Single 240 mm disc 2 piston caliper

Front Tyre: 120/70 ZR17

Rear Tyre: 190/50 ZR17

Dry-Weight: 186 kg / 410 lbs.

Fuel Capacity (res): 15.5 Litres (3 L of the tank is reserve)/ 4.1 gal ( 0.8 gal
reserve)

Consumption average: 5.6L/100km / 42 mpg

Standing Quarter Mile: 10.29 sec

Top Speed: 275 km/h / 170 mph

Seat height: 78 cm / 30.7 in