Skip to main content

Magazine

The time is 8.51

Before the iconic Ducati 916 there was the 851. The beginning of Ducati's dominance in World Superbikes, that would see them win eight of the next ten World Championships.

Before the legendary Ducati 916 and the reign of Carl Fogarty there was the 851. At the hands of rider Raymond Roche, the Ducati 851 was the World Super Bike champion in 1990, toppling the dominance of the Honda RC30. Today if you want to buy a Honda RC30 you will need to spend around £30,000, if you want to buy a Ducati 916 they are also catapulting up in value. Arguably though, this gorgeous 851 S Biposto is a rare and cooler alternative. Biposto for the uninitiated means two seats, although eagle eyed readers will spot that this bike has had the rear foot pegs removed. The white ‘trellis’ style frame and angular body work are of a time that is very much en vogue right now and this example would be a great addition to any garage.