996 Buying Advice - What To Look Out For

For many, originality is key so if the current or previous owners have added bits to their own taste, it would be nice for all the original parts to come in the deal. At that age, regular servicing on time (if not doing the mileage) would be better and serviced either by a dealer or recognised Ducati specialist. I bought a 748 with a slipper clutch that the non specialist servicing technician had no idea how to fit. Cost a lot extra for me to sort it out. A shim check service is expensive and is done on mileage not age so budget for one if it has not already been done at least once. Engine case paint is a weak point so look for corrosion. The standard clutch slave cylinder is a weak point and might need replacing if not already done. All the mileage related items, chains, sprockets, brake pads and discs and tyres (tyre age as well as wear) need to be checked. That can add high £hundreds to your immediate ownership costs. Unless there is proof, I would advise as a minimum, the fork oil will need changing and organise a visit to a suspension set up specialist. The bike will be so much more enjoyable to ride if it doesn’t shake your bones to bits. Other than that, expect general wear and tear on a bike of that age. Good luck. Andy

 

As has been said its about the paper trail to evidence that the work has been done by the right folks

if not, you might want to give whatever specialist you want to work the bike for you a call to understand what you might be in for depending on what needs doing

i bought a 748r and then spent 25% plus on the purchase price on getting the bike sorted.. admittedly i am very fussy but the bike deserved it and now its even more outstanding and wants for nothing

the clutch is a good one as its not always apparent how borked it might be unless youve ridden good examples of the model before and know what it should sound/work like

if possible, take someone along that has a 996 in fine fettle

go in with your eyes open and keep us posted

 

As above. Valve service is every 6k mls so check the last time it was done. Can push £4 figure job if the rockers have flaked (you can't check this without taking the engine apart).

Check fairings are OEM and the tabs where they connect underneath are not broken or brittle looking.

Check rear eccentric hub for sign of wear from a cush drive going.

 

Andy's post #2 has hit it on the head for me but also fork oil seals check them by bouncing the bike up and downso now it's about the price

 

Welcome to the 996 cluband a stand for you
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/DUCATI-B...64661089?hash=item3fabc39461:g:6coAAOSwfLpbnj

 

Congratulations and welcome.

 

Congratulations

 

Just check your pin size

 

No problem i'm rather partial to Jaffa cakes

 

you have me thinking:- why don't we do a member's 996 list? - happy to be shot down if not popular but it's nice to know 'you are not alone'

I can't bring myself to sell mine despite not using it for around 5 years..

 

Hey go for it but what model and why the five years no rolling wheels

 

late/low miles 996s in red, gap since using due to too many bikes plus 'stuff'..

 

Wahoo! I'm on a (good) register!!!

 

No problem matey, may see you at the Wandsworth meet 2nd Wednesday of the month

 

I ought to do this also - not sure i've made it there this year.