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Between 1994 and 2004, Ducati had a decade of producing motorcycles that have created a lasting legacy. They are equally loved now as they were upon their original release.
The bike that started it all was the 916 and the bike that followed was the 996 sandwiched in by the later 998.
Ducati have of course created many other classic machines and continue to do so with the re-imagined and evolved Panigale of this year being a great example.
However, this was a really special time not only for sales but for racing wins too.
The 996 played a big part in that story and that is the bike that we will focus on in this article; from its origins to when it was replaced and with a review covering all bases.
Let’s get started.
Ducati 996 Review
History
In 1994 Ducati released the 916 and it blew the press and public away not only with its performance specs but with the sheer beauty of the bike.
It is often recognised as the “World’s Most Beautiful Motorcycle” and designer Massimo Tamburini had created his masterpiece. Working alongside Tamburini was Pierre Terblanche who was working on the Ducati Supermono at the time of the 916 development.
The 916 was a Superbike for the track dressed to make it acceptable as a production motorcycle for use on the street. It also won more World Superbike Championships than any other bike.
It would be 1998 before a new model was ready to replace the 916 and with eager anticipation the world awaited, how could any other motorcycle beat the standard that the 916 had set?