Designed to be the ultimate 996 at the time, the SPS (Sport Production Special) combined performance and beauty. The limited edition SPS was an uprated version that featured a modified engine and chassis. Nearly all the specifications were improved, such as the lighter Marchesini 5-spoke wheels and Ohlins rear shock. In 2000, Ducati upgraded the Showa forks to Ohlins units, as well.
Engine work included titanium connecting rods, upgraded cams, and a lightened crankshaft. The SPS also got a bigger generator and Termignoni pipes. All this was good for an additional 12 horsepower, and the modified chassis made the whole package that much sweeter. Technically, you weren’t supposed to enjoy said package on the street – the SPS was only road legal in Europe. Ducati didn’t conform to EPA regulations, so they sold it as a ‘track-only’ bike and made buyers sign a waiver saying that you wouldn’t register it for road use. As you might imagine, pretty much everyone ignored the waiver, as the bike came with a VIN, lights, a title, and everything needed to register the bike.
This example (VIN: ZDM3SB5V9YB003216) is 996 SPS #1496, and it shows 15,710 miles on the odometer. Having the seen the bike in person myself, I’d say it’s a great rider but not a showpiece. It’s been upgraded with an Arrow exhaust, Yoyodyne clutch slave cylinder, and several carbon fiber pieces.
Find this 996 SPS for sale here on Iconic Motorbike Auctions.
Disclosure: Bike-urious is a partner in Iconic Motorbike Auctions.