ducati 996

Hi We haven't managed to compile any Buying Guides on here yet, and it is a lot of typing but hopefully everyone will chip in. The really main check at the top of the list (apart from looking/checking with owner for obvious accident damage) is what state the engine is in and in particular the opening rockers. The service history could be a great help if it lists when checks/rocker shimming was last done. that's a start anyway

 

What Chris said about the rockers is spot on, but don't let it stop you buying if there is no history, just haggle hard - no history on a ducati equals do a cheap deal - Belts and valve gear checks/renewals are a must if you're undertaking a new purchase unless it's in blood from a REPUTABLE agent/independent.

Deffo try to ride it before buying it (cash in a bag) should get you a ride if it's private.

Coming from an R1 you might not like it initially - does things differently - stick with it, you'll be glad you did.

If it has only done 3K it should be obvious to see and will probably command good money

 

With only 3000 miles on the clock it won't have needed a rocker check yet, isn't first check at 6000.

 

By the book, every service is a valve inspect..... The rockers were never in the schedule, so it's down to the workshop as to whether they inspect. Ask the owner if they've ever been checked. If they don't know what your talking about, then they may never have asked to have them checked...
After a R1 servicing is relatively expensive when done right. Common sense can helps loads so build up a relationship with your workshop. I'd certainly consider getting a good thorough service if there's some doubt about the history and for peace of mind. You can then cover the basics annually and the more involved stuff depending upon mileage.
look after them and they'll see you right. Cut corners they'll bite you.

 

I take your point Steve but after 12 years with possible (certain?) long standing times I would still be happier/put a higher price on a bike that had just been checked before sale plus i have seen a 748 with a worn opener with less than 3K on it anyway.. Isn't anyone going to add more details about belts etc instead of deconstructing what's already on here then? :wink:

 

If you ride an R1 and move to a 996,it's like chalk and cheese, the R1 will be a refined smooth powerful bike with rocket like characteristics, smooth through town and comfy ish to ride all day, not much engine breaking either compared to the 996

the 996 will feel very agricultural, like a tractor, very Uncomfortable to ride in town with a very heavy clutch, harder to get off the starting blocks too, but when your used to it and get her flowing down the a roads you will absolutly love it, less gear changing as the torque will see you through, lots of engine breaking, a very special feeling indeed, love I think they call it

ps, don't shift down more than one gear at a time if your not used to twins, if you do you could end up in the bushes

 

have a look at this site it will give you everything you need on Specification for most bikes www.motorcyclespecs.co.za
ive had an R1 and a 998 and the ride in town on the R1 is very lumpy and harsh the bike is hunting all the time at low speed ,excellent out in the twisties
as for the 998 one of the best bikes i ever had and i still regret selling it ,i,m currently riding a Panigale Tricolore S

 

I think I might have been told off by Chris earlier, anyway if it helps 6000 mile service oil, filters and plugs loads of checks including head nuts belt tension valve shims and assorted bearings, alternator nut on pre 1999 bikes ( not sure about post 99 ) 12000 mile service or 2 years same as before plus new belts, brake and clutch fluid, coolant change and front fork oil.
Things to watch out for, change belts as per service schedule ( not worth the risk leaving it longer ) flaking rockers can be expensive and this is a very random problem, some bikes suffer more than others, earlier bikes had problems with regulators and the wires connecting it to the alternator needed upgrading although I am not sure if this applies to post 1999 models. I would use the best oil you can in these engines, Motul 300V goes in my 853.
These are my personal views and are not written in stone
Steve

 

don't take any notice of me Steve - you are absolutely right, at that mileage there almost certainly isn't anything to worry about rocker-wise - I just trotted out what i thought was helpful regardless