DUCATI 851SP2 (1990-1991) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1990, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer launched the Ducat 851SP2, a sports machine dressed in full bodywork and powered by a V-twin liquid-cooled engine. Although it was still named an 851, the bike displaced 888cc.

The Ducati 851SP2 returned to two injectors per cylinder, retained the H-section Pankl con-rods, the 300-watt alternator, a close-ratio gearbox of the earlier 851 Superbike kit, and camshafts. Other chassis improvements included a USD Ohlins fork, Ohlins rear shock, and cast-iron front Brembo discs.

In the appearance department, the bike was similar to its siblings, packing standard features, such as a full bodywork with a rectangular headlight, a windscreen, a single seat, a dual exhaust system with a muffler on each side, a side stand, and three-spoke cast aluminum wheels.

The bike's suspension was handled by a 42 mm USD rebound, compression-adjustable Ohlins fork on the front, and a preload and damping-adjustable Ohlins shock absorber on the rear, with excellent handling capabilities.

The 1990 Ducati 851SP2 packed underneath its clothes an 888cc four-stroke liquid-cooled V-twin engine with a fuel injection system in charge, delivering an output power of 116 hp with maximum strength at 10,500 rpm and 81 Nm (60 lb-ft) torque at 8,250 rpm.

The engine power was transferred to the ground through a six-speed manual transmission with a dry multi-plate clutch and a final chain drive that spun the rear wheel to a top speed of 250 kph (155 mph).