2001Ducati 996 R

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The 2001 Ducati 996 R is a lightweight superbike designed for experienced riders seeking aggressive performance and pure track capability. Its 998cc V-twin engine delivers 135 horsepower with a distinctive narrow profile, making it ideal for precision cornering and high-speed riding. Known for its responsive handling and classic Ducati styling, it remains a favorite among sportbike enthusiasts who value raw performance over comfort.

Capacity: 998.0 ccm
Engine: V-Twin
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 185.0 kg
Seat height: 790 mm
Power: 135.0 HP (99.3 kW)

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years ⚠ Recalls listed (1)

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail5%

Cornering95%

City riding25%

Daily riding20%

Touring22%

Two-up15%

Track96%

Best for: Built primarily for track-focused canyon carving and racetrack days, with road use being a secondary compromise.
Built for: A raw, race-bred V-twin with sharp throttle response, a low dry weight, and razor-edged handling that rewards precision and punishes hesitation.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for new riders, commuters, or anyone wanting comfort, upright ergonomics, or a passenger-friendly setup.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 790mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2001 Ducati 996 R, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

Find bikes that fit your height →

Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 998.0 ccm
Power: 135.0 HP (99.3 kW)
Torque: 105.0 Nm (10.7 kgf-m)
Engine type: V-Twin
Power/weight ratio: 0.7297 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 100.0 x 63.5 mm
Fuel system: Injection
Valves per cylinder: 4

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain

Performance

Top speed: 270.0 km/h (167.8 mph)

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1410 mm
Seat height: 790 mm
Dry weight: 185.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres

Chassis & suspension

Front wheel travel: 127 mm
Rear wheel travel: 130 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Dual disc
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 220 mm
Front tyre: 120/60-ZR17
Rear tyre: 180/55-ZR17

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

Safety Recalls

⚠ 1 recall may apply

POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLYApr 2002 · 02V114000

ON CERTAIN MOTORCYCLES, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER MAY LEAK INTERNALLY CAUSING THE CLUTCH CONTROL TO JAM.

Risk: THIS COULD AFFECT THE CONTROL OF THE MOTORCYCLE AND CAUSE A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING APRIL 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT DUCATI AT 1-973-839-2600.

These recalls cover some 2001 bikes of this model. Whether one applies to a specific bike, and whether the repair has already been done, depends on its VIN — check your VIN with NHTSA or ask a dealer.

Source: NHTSA. View all Ducati recalls →