I finally took some more photos of the bike - see my separate post below. If you want to check the MoT history of the bike, you can do so at https://www.check-mot.service.gov.uk/ I haven’t ridden this bike for more than a year and I think the time has come to “hang up my leathers” and let it go to a new owner. Sad day, but I guess it comes to us all eventually. It’s a genuine 1991 Ducati 851 SP3, #197 of approximately 500 made. I’ve owned it since 2004 (over 22 years!) and it has only had one previous registered owner. It spent several years as part of John Hackett’s personal collection. It’s in very good, highly original condition, having covered less than 20k miles. The only non-standard parts are a selection of stainless fasteners and Ducati-Corse style rear-sets (I believe these to be genuine). I have all the original bits and pieces should anyone want to restore it to totally original condition. Importantly it still has the original Ducati silencers fitted, which are in virtually unmarked condition; so many of these bikes have after-market silencers fitted, usually Termi’s. I also have the original dB-killers, which as far as I can see have never been fitted. The bike has been well looked after while in my ownership, by several well-respected specialists (including Cornerspeed, Made in Italy, Moto-V, Carl Harrison). It had a belt change service by Neil Ridgewell (late of Made in Italy) last year. He got the bike MoT’d (which expired on 16 February 2026, I never rode it...). Neil has just done an oil service and given it a thorough “going over”. It has a new MoT, with no Advisories, which expires on 5 May 2027. The bike has been on an Optimate charger all the time it hasn’t been ridden. Original Owner’s Handbook and Factory Workshop Manuals (for the 851 and the SP supplement). Abbastand (with Front Wheel Lift Arm) and a Harris rear paddock stand. I’ve attached a few photos of the bike; I’ll post some more when the sun comes out! In the meantime, if anyone wants more information, or photos of something specific, just ask. I’m looking for £17500.
What a beautiful bike! And with that provenance, it’s great value. GLWS. To anybody considering this, they are wonderful to ride, and reliable if looked after. Service parts easily available.
Thanks for posting that @cl955! It is indeed great to ride, only wish I still could... As the saying goes, the spirit is willing!
I finally took some more photos of the bike, which are attached. If you want anything else photographed, or have any questions, just ask. It's a Bank Holiday weekend, the weather forecast is good - perfect for-buying a bike!