Tesi is Italian for “thesis”, and the name reflects that this bike started as a thesis project by Pierluigi Marconi exploring hub-center steering for his mechanical engineering degree. The first generation was the 1D, which utilized the 93 horsepower twin from the Ducati 851. By the third generation (3D), the Ducati-built heart was the 1,078cc dual spark engine found in machines like the Multistrada 1100 and Hypermotard 1100 (rated for 97 horsepower in the Tesi).
The 3D was a vast improvement of the 2D: Blake Conner of Cycle World said “I was amazed by how much more responsive the front end was compared to the 2D.” Alan Cathcart said the “third time’s the charm” in a Motorcycle.com review. The air-cooled motor didn’t have much mass to move around – Bimota claimed a dry weight of just 370 pounds thanks to the high spec components and extensive use of carbon fiber. 2020 brought the last run of the Tesi 3D before Bimota moved to the Tesi H2. It was known as the Final Edition (Edizione Finale) and it marked the end of a long run of Ducati-powered Bimotas. Upgrades over previous 3Ds included a wet clutch and Ohlins TTX suspension.
This example is #25 of 45 of the Final Editions. Please note that there is a VIN on the frame from Bimota of Italy (VIN: TB9601AB0G6900107) as well as a VIN sticker to be placed on the headstock from Bimota Spirit, the US importer (VIN: 4B9DD0952LR106007). The latter VIN matches what’s on the MSO. The odometer shows zero miles.
Currently located in Santa Monica, California, this Bimota is offered on a MSO from Bimota Spirit. It’s designated as a 2020 MOTO1. Find this Tesi for sale with bidding up to $26,100 here on Iconic Motorbike Auctions.
Disclosure: Bike-urious is a partner in Iconic Motorbike Auctions.