The press has called the Ducati 999 the best-ever twin cylinder engine (MotorCycle News, the leading European motorcycle magazine). A peek under the fairing shows just how advanced this motorcycle is and the design focuses on rider ergonomics, making maintenance simpler by reducing overall complexity and, above all, offering top-notch performance.
The L-twin Testastretta engines are very compact, making the finished motorcycles incredibly narrow and agile, much like their racing cousins. They also offer excellent torque and remarkably vigorous power delivery compared to four-cylinder engines. Ducati Superbikes have incredible acceleration and provide outstanding riding thrills.
All the Ducati Superbikes are equipped with L-twin “Testastretta” engines. Testastretta cylinder head technology allows a unique layout of the cam-timing system that creates a reduced angle between the valves. The result is a clean, compact combustion chamber that is also highly efficient, with flat-crown pistons that provide a perfectly smooth, linear flame front. The special design of the heads, together with the cutting-edge electronic engine control system, guarantees optimal combustion throughout the rev range and makes for smooth, effective riding at all times.
The standard version of the 999 pumps out 140 horsepower at 9,750 rpm and 11.1 kgm (80.3 ft.lbs.) of torque at 8,000 rpm with a smoothness that makes riding sheer pleasure. The Testastretta engine in the 999 has a piston stroke of 63.5 millimeter and a bore of 100 millimeter; the reduced stroke limits maximum piston speed allowing increased rpm's and improved overall reliability. An exclusive oil pump feeding system, built into the Corse low sump crankcase ensures maximum oil flow even during extreme cornering and hard acceleration out of corners.
Suspension on the 999 is fully adjustable: the TiN-treated 43 millimeter upside-down Showa fork works together with the Showa rear shock absorber, pivoting on the aluminum alloy rear swingarm – derived from the 999 Factory, winner of the 2004 World Superbike Championship.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Manufacturer
Ducati
Model Year
2006
Model
Superbike 999
MSRP
$17,995.00*
DIMENSIONS
Weight
410 lbs. (186 kg)
Wheelbase
55.9 in. (1,420 mm)
Seat Height
30.7 in. (780 mm)
ENGINE
Engine
L-twin cylinder, 4 valves per cylinder Testastretta Desmodromic; liquid-cooled
Horsepower
140 hp @ 9,750 rpm (103 kw)
Displacement
998 cc
Bore x Stroke
100 x 63.5 mm
Torque
80.3 ft.lbs. @ 8,000 rpm (11.1 kgm)
Compression Ratio
11.4:1
Fuel System
Marelli electronic fuel injection, 54 mm throttle body
Fuel Capacity
4.1 gal. (including 0.8 gal. reserve) (15.5 l w/ 3 l reserve)
Clutch
Dry multiplate with hydraulic control
Exhaust
Single steel muffler with catalytic converter
DRIVETRAIN
Transmission
6-speed
Final Drive
Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 36
BRAKES/WHEELS/TIRES
Brakes
Front: 2 x 320 mm semi-floating discs, 4-piston 4-pad caliper Rear: 240 mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Wheel Colors
Red w/Black wheels (on Red), Black w/Black wheels (on Black)
Tires
Front: 120/70 ZR 17 Rear: 190/50 ZR 17
OPERATIONAL
Frame
Tubular steel trellis
Suspension
Front: Showa 43 mm upside-down fully adj. fork w/ TiN surface treatment; 4.9 in. (125 mm) travel Rear: Progressive linkage w/ fully adj. Showa monoshock; 5 in. (128 m) travel
Rake
23.5° - 24.5°
OTHER
Colors
Red, Black
Options
Dual seat
Photos may show optional equipment
*Price, if shown, is Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) and does not include government fees, taxes, dealer vehicle freight/preparation, dealer document preparation charges or any finance charges (if applicable). MSRP and/or final actual sales price will vary depending on options or accessories selected.
Free Riding Lesson with Christine Firehock of KickSTART fame!
