From a press release issued by Ducati North America:

DUCATI PRESENTS BOSTROM WITH 999

Eric Bostrom visited Ducati North America headquarters and received keys to a 999 this week.

AMA racer Eric Bostrom visited Ducati North America to meet with CEO Michael Lock and staff this week in Cupertino, California. As the newest addition to the Ducati family, Bostrom was welcomed by Michael with the keys to a 2004 Ducati 999, based upon the 999R Factory AMA04 bike he will ride this season for the Parts Unlimited Ducati Austin team. The 999 dominated the World Superbike Championship in 2003, finishing 1st and 2nd in overall points.

Ducati Corse’s commitment to success is carried to the United States this year with full support for Bostrom’s AMA campaign. This effort is important to winning the competitive AMA series and demonstrates Ducati’s continued development through racing worldwide. The 999 features winning technologies derived from the racetrack, such as the 4-valve testrastretta engine. On the standard 999, this engine delivers 124 horsepower at 9500 rpm.

The addition of a factory supported Ducati team in the U.S. has generated a wave of excitement among fans. Bostrom’s first race of the season is the Daytona 200 on March 6th in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Eric concluded his visit by accepting a framed photo, signed by the Ducati North America staff, in addition to his new motorcycle.