DUCATI 851 Strada Tricolore (1988-1989) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Ducati 851 was a fully faired sports motorcycle powered by a V-twin liquid-cooled engine. The bike debuted in 1987 as a successor to the Ducati 750 F1 until 1992, when it was succeeded by the Ducati 888.

In 1988, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer launched the Ducati 851 Strada Tricolore, a special edition motorcycle that proudly displayed the colors of the Italian flag, red, white, and green.

The bike packed the signature steel Trellis frame with Marvic wheels, Brembo brakes, and Marzocchi wheels. The first Tricolore model was criticized for its handling, and the Italian motorcycle manufacturer enlarged the wheels from 16-inch to 17-inch, upgraded the suspension with Ohlins USD components, and installed fully-floating Brembo brake rotors.

In the appearance department, the 1988 Ducati 851 Strada Tricolore packed standard features, such as a full bodywork with a medium-sized windscreen, a rectangular headlight, a single seat, a dual exhaust system, a side stand, and three-spoke lightweight wheels.

The bike's handling was achieved by a USD Marzocchi telescopic fork in the front and an adjustable Marzocchi shock absorber on the rear, providing optimum suspension performance and handling.

As for power, the 1988 Ducati 851 Strada Tricolore had its soul brought to life by an 851cc four-stroke V-twin liquid-cooled engine fed by an electronically controlled fuel injection system, delivering 119 hp at 10,500 rpm and 72 Nm (53 lb-ft) torque at 7,250 rpm.