Someone in the UK has a 999R that’s claimed to only have delivery mileage, it’s said to be “unregistered and unridden since 2003 pre-delivery test inspection.”
It’d be easy to second guess if the 999R was worth the $7,000 premium over the 999S. Journalists at the time resoundingly said yes, thanks to the race-bred engine with a larger bore, new head design, and titanium valves. At the time, it was the most powerful production V-Twin motor ever – pushing 134.1 horsepower and 76.5 lb-ft at the rear wheel (and Motorcycle USA said that with a Power Commander and exhaust you could see an additional 20 ponies). This was probably the ultimate traack toy of the time, though with the limited production numbers and insane MSRP, many of these bikes were just tucked away in collections. Dan Neil of the LA Times summarized the bike by saying “Made of steel, titanium, carbon fiber and sadism, the 999R is as close as you are going to get to a grand prix motorcycle, and unless you are a fantastic rider with years of experience, you don’t want to get that close. This bike will beat you down like you said something bad about its mother.”
This example has just 8 miles on it and it’s #136. The current owner has had it for 14 years, it was last serviced in 2024 (including the belts). The seller also notes that it was sent to noted Ducati dealer Pro Twins when it was new for a titanium Termignoni exhaust and Ducati Corse quick turn throttle. “Paperwork includes invoice from new, period delivery inspection form signed corroborating mileage, Ducati certificate of conformity, Ducati aluminium plaque, letter for exclusive invitation to Desmocedici addressed to original owner and invoice recipient, Ducati club membership and card still attached to letter and even the return address envelope all immaculate and pressed without marks.” Considering the spec of the bike and the low mileage I would have expected more/better photos but it’s at least a head start if someone’s looking for a potentially pristine 999R.
Find this 999R for sale in Nottingham, United Kingdom with a BIN of £26,995 ($35,713) here on eBay.