A while ago a really helpful DF member checked frame and engine numbers for me on a 748R I was importing. I cannot recall their name so am putting this out there hoping that same person still has access to the Ducati data base. This is a rare 2000 748 variant from a limited production run, so need to be ultra cautious. Frame ZDMH300AAYB001572 Engine ZDM748W4B000089 Thank you in advance.
You can write to Ducati on Ducati.com. They are quick to respond and helpful. Once you sent proof that you are the present owner they will tell you all they know about your bike, when it was made, when and where it was first sold. The exact model it is and if your numbers match their records. I got that information in less than 24 hours from them
Thanks, I am a prospective owner checking provenance before I hand over cash. I will definitely follow-up your advice if/when I become the actual owner, many thanks.
Absolute minefield so you are right to be ultra cautious. Over the last few years, I have seen several bikes for sale that claim to be a kosher 748RS and they have been more like Trigger's dad's broom which when you think about it, any bike that has been professionally raced, parts get replaced. The 748RS was fragile. I have two verified ex British Supersport 748RS engines and neither have engine numbers but it is unlikely that the cases are original. One thing, the frame was pretty special and should not be confused with a homologation frame on the 1999 748SPS or 2000 748R. Hope you find all the information you need. Andy
All I can say is that's deffo a homologation engine. there's a thread somewhere else in here where we (those with 748/916) showed all engines used in homologating a racer have B after the W.
Doesn't help you now unfortunately. I can understand why they won't give out information unless you are the owner but if the person you are buying from is genuine he won't mind getting the info for you would he. I sent the request via the contact us page on the website. Had a phonecall back within 2 hours of sending it detailing the information they would need. Also had a email with the same request a few minutes later. I provided photographs to show what they needed and got a email with all the details the next day. No question I would do that anyway if I thought I had something genuinely special and wanted to sell it as proof and provenance.
Here is what I got from them Dear Mr. Akorenika, I am contacting you with the feedback I have received from the appropriate department. The bike in question is a 916 Biposto England MY1995, sold to the English importer Three Cross Motorcycles LTD on January 27, 1995, and registered to the first owner on February 11 of the same year. Frame and engine serial numbers match, and they are same of when the motorcycle left the factory. This bike was produced in 258 pieces in 1995. It is part of the 916 production started in Ducati Motor Holding from January 1995, and has nothing to do with the 916 produced in 1994 in Cagiva, in Varese. With reference to the specifications of the bike, you should find them in the owner’s manual, if you do not have it, please let me know that I will ask for a PDF copy. We remain at your disposal if you have any further questions. Best regards, Carlotta Ducati Support Ducati Motor Holding Spa Borgo Panigale – Italy www.ducati.com