Ducati 996

There were three different models of the 996: a base, or Biposto; the 996S with Öhlins suspension; the 996SPS (Europe only) which had a more powerful engine and less weight thanks to some titanium and carbon fibre parts.

Saw the wheels change and get updated to all new Marchesini wheels. The front forks were also titanium nitrided to reduce stiction.

The 996R replaced the 996SPS and featured the new 998 cc (60.9 cu in) Testastretta engine. There was also the 748, which offered less horsepower. Another overhaul saw the 996 rear shock absorber change from a Showa to an Öhlins. Ducati introduced the limited production (only 500 were built), 996 R, the suffix standing for ‘Racing’, which featured Öhlins suspension (rear and front), carbon fiber bodywork, a revised and more streamlined fairing, but most importantly the newly redesigned engine, the Testastretta (narrow-head)…

The 996 was superseded by the Ducati 998.