In the run-up to the presentation of its complete Model Year 2006 range at EICMA in Milan from 15 to 20 November, Ducati chose the prestigious Motorcycle and Scooter Show in Birmingham (UK) to preview two of its new models due out next year.
The first is an exclusive version of the 999R, in the form of a “Xerox replica”, which practically duplicates the official 2005 Superbike World Championship bike right down to the graphics and smallest details.
The second is the new ST3s ABS, Ducati’s high-performance sport-touring bike, which will top the range for 2006 and comes complete with ABS and other substantial improvements in terms of equipment and finish.
The 999R “Xerox replica” has a captivatingly aggressive look, in this even more exclusive racing version.
Adorned with the graphics of the official bike, this special version of the 999R also features black anodized steering head and footpegs and the red Brembo Racing logo on the radially mounted brake callipers.
A further exclusive detail with respect to the standard model is the fully adjustable Öhlins ‘Racing’ rear shock absorber, with dual adjustment of compression damping for high and low relative speeds, and using an aluminum shock body.
For lovers of “race replica” bikes, there is also a kit containing red adhesive wheel trim and dedicated stickers for the headlamp fairing.
Like the 999R, the “Xerox replica” is also supplied as standard with a racing kit (the Termignoni exhaust kit consisting of a horizontal, cylindrical half-manifold, in place of the standard part of the exhaust system, which houses the catalytic converter, ‘open’ silencer and carbon cover specifically for the open silencer), which further accentuates the sporting spirit of this incredible, high-performance Ducati built for track and competition use.
Another not to be missed preview is the new ST3s ABS , which will spearhead the Ducati Sport Touring range as of 2006.
The top-end cycle parts (fully adjustable Showa forks with TiN treatment; fully adjustable Öhlins rear shock absorber; aluminum swingarm; five-spoke wheels), are complemented by a further safety feature in the form of ABS brakes. These were developed in response to the sporting nature of the bike, to ensure maximum safety without compromising performance even at the limit.
The new ST3s ABS shares the same versatile Desmo3 liquid-cooled 3-valve engine as the ST3, for an optimum combination of the low-rev torque typical of 2-valve engines with the power of 4-valve units. It also meets Euro 3 anti-pollution standards.
Both new models will be available from Ducati dealers starting in December.
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