Lot 105 - 1993 Ducati 851 SP3

There are very few more iconic Ducati's than the 1991 Ducati 851 SP3. Ever since the arrival of its water-cooled, eight-valve, v-twin superbike in the late 1980s, Ducati has pursued a policy of offering limited edition, higher-specification variants of the standard model, one of the first of these ultra-desirable modern classics being the SP2. Introduced part-way through 1990 and based on the 851 Biposto, the SP2 came with the 888cc engine first used in the works racers while also featuring a closer-ratio gearbox and superior Öhlins suspension front and rear. It was replaced for 1991 by the SP3 which boasted upswept Termignoni silencers, stronger crankcases, uprated clutch, remote brake/clutch master cylinders, forced induction, carbon fibre front, rear mudguards and a slight power increase in addition to a host of more minor improvements.

This SP3 featuring the increased capacity motor of 888cc and is what started the modern history of Ducati in World Superbike racing and, as such, rarely are they offered to the wider marketplace. Recorded as series number 001 built by Ducati in 1993, it is believed to be a pre-production SP4 model. First registered in the UK in 1995, it has now had the same owner until 2016. It has covered 9,072 miles and comes with all tools, owner's manual and two original keys. It presents in excellent condition for its age but does have a few minor age-related marks. It has just been fully serviced including cambelts, oils and fluids as well as new Michelin Pilot Power 3s, front and rear. Offered with the original sales invoice and MoT test certificate valid until March, 2018, these specialist Ducatis are fast becoming highly collectable .