In 1988 Ducati produced less than 3,700 motorcycles a year. Using a twin against the Japanese V4s was ambitious so Ducati built an ultra expensive special that would require minor modifications for race use

Taking full advantage of the homologation rules, they built an out of the crate race bike that had the possibility to be also used on the road, using top quality components

This model, the Kit bike, was built in the racing department, impossible to source as all 207 examples were pre-ordered via the racing industry and came with Conti Racing Exhaust, Marzocchi Suspension, A braced swingarm and lightweight Magnesium Wheels

The engine upgrade included a ventilated dry clutch, a close ratio gearbox and upgraded race camshaft increased power to 130bhp. It also had a front headlight and rear tail light however the mirrors, speedometer and indicators were excluded

This bike is supplied with its original Warranty and Pre-Delivery Certificate, issued by the supplying dealer, Panigale Concessionaires, confirming that it is an '851 Kit Racer'

This document is dated 09/05/1991, the year that the Ducati was first registered (H851 DTM) and records the first owner as Mr Ian Longstaff, whose name is on the fairing. The bike was supplied in Red from new and not 'Tricolore'

Purchased by its current (fourth) owner in 2017. Invoice in the file post-purchase (15/03/2018) for £2,078 at 1,102 miles

Recent invoice for belts from Moto Rapido for £703 dated 27/08/2024 at a indicated mileage of 1,109

The 851 'Kit' was built for competition and as most were used as such, we doubt that there are many left in this fabulous condition and even fewer that are road registered with an MOT (Daylight)

Lot Number: 445

Make: DUCATI

Model: 851

Registration Number: H851 DTM

Frame Number: ZDM3HB6T5JB 850042

MOT Expiry: 02/10/2025

Chassis Number: ZDM3HB6T5JB 850042

Engine Number: HB6J850046

Transmission: Manual