DUCATI 996SPS (1999-2000) Specs, Performance & Photos

From 1999 to 2002, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer produced the Ducati 996, a sports machine available in three versions, the base or Biposto, the 996S with Ohlins suspensions, and the 996SPS with more power and less weight due to the use of carbon fiber and titanium parts.

In 1999, the Italian manufacturer launched the Ducati 996SPS (Sport Production Special), a sports machine available only for the European market. It packed the same engine as the 916SPS but with less weight.

In addition to a specially designed chassis, the Ducati 996SPS featured the most powerful engine they or any other manufacturer produced at the time for track use. It was in production until 2001 when it was replaced by the Ducati 996R.

As for looks, the bike packed the same standard features as its siblings, with a full fairing with a small windscreen, a dual headlight system, a single seat, an under-seat-mounted exhaust system, and five-spoke lightweight wheels.

The bike's suspension was handled by a 43 mm rebound and compression-adjustable Showa fork on the front with 127 mm wheel travel and a rebound and compression-adjustable Ohlins shock absorber on the rear with 130 mm wheel travel.

As for power, the 1999 Ducati 996SPS had its heartbeat set by a 996cc four-stroke V-twin liquid-cooled engine with a fuel injection system in charge, boasting 124 hp with a peak at 9,500 rpm and 99 Nm (73 lb-ft) torque at 7,000 rpm.