The Bimota DB4 Tricolore followed the Italian firm’s modus operandi of taking a well established engine from another manufacturer and surrounding it with beautiful Italian bodywork. Using a frame similar to the Bimota Mantra, this successor wasn’t much of a technological advancement. Think of it instead as a moving piece of art.
Powered by the 900cc Ducati V-Twin, the Bimota DB4 basically shared an engine with the Ducati 900SS of the time. Bimota ditched the Duc’s fuel injection to instead go with dual 38mm carbs. Producing only 80hp, you’ll never keep up with modern sportbikes in a straight line, but this bike is more about mid-range torque and older Italian charm. With multi-adjustable Paioli forks and the diagonally-mounted Ohlins rear shock, this was one of the nicest handling bikes you could buy at the time.
This example is interesting as the seller claims it’s never been started. It was “first registered in Italy in 2006 and sold to Germany in 2007. Since then, all fluids have been changed regularly, but not started.” The seller notes that the mirrors are available but not mounted and if anyone has experience with these bikes then they’ll jokingly tell you that they believe the seller’s mileage claims because the fairings don’t show any cracks. You really should have an extra person with you if you want to take off the front fairing for any service work on one of these!
Find this DB4 for sale for €9,990 ($10,259) in Würzburg, Germany here on Car and Classic.