999R Xerox and ST3s ABS Ducati previews two new models from its 2006 range in Birmingham (UK) Birmingham In the run-up to the presentation of its complete Model Year 2006 range at EICMA in Milan from 15 to 20 November, Ducati chose the prestigious Motorcycle and Scooter Show in Birmingham (UK) to preview two of its new models due out next year. The first is an exclusive version of the 999R, in the form of a “Xerox replica”, which practically duplicates the official 2005 Superbike World Championship bike right down to the graphics and smallest details and the second is the new ST3s ABS, Ducati’s high-performance sport-touring bike, which will top the range for 2006 and comes complete with ABS and other substantial improvements in terms of equipment and finish. The 999R “Xerox replica” has a captivatingly aggressive look, in this even more exclusive racing version. Adorned with the graphics of the official bike, this special version of the 999R also features black anodized steering head and footpegs and the red Brembo Racing logo on the radially mounted brake calipers. A further exclusive detail with respect to the standard model is the fully adjustable Ohlins ‘Racing’ rear shock absorber, with dual adjustment of compression damping for high and low relative speeds, body in aluminum and counterspring. For lovers of “race replica” bikes, there is also a kit containing red adhesive wheel trim and dedicated stickers for the headlamp fairing. Like the 999R, the “Xerox replica” is also supplied as standard with a racing kit (the Termignoni exhaust kit consisting of a horizontal, cylindrical half-manifold, in place of the standard part of the exhaust system, which houses the catalytic converter, ‘open’ silencer and carbon cover specifically for the open silencer), which further accentuates the sporting spirit of this incredible, high-performance Ducati built for track and competition use. Another unmissable preview is the new ST3s ABS, which will spearhead the Ducati Sport Touring range as of 2006. The top-end cycle parts (fully adjustable Showa forks with TiN treatment; fully adjustable Ohlins rear shock absorber; aluminum swingarm; five-spoke wheels), are complemented by a further safety feature in the form of ABS brakes. These were developed in response to the sporting nature of the bike, to ensure maximum safety without compromising performance even at the limit. The new ST3sABS shares the same versatile Desmo3 liquid-cooled 3-valve engine as the ST3, for an optimum combination of the low-rev torque typical of 2-valve engines with the power of 4-valve units. It also meets Euro 3 anti-pollution standards. The ST3s ABS will be available from Ducati Dealers in December, while the 999R Xerox will be available in January. Founded in 1926, Ducati builds racing-inspired motorcycles characterized by unique engine features, innovative design, advanced engineering and overall technical excellence. The Company produces motorcycles in six market segments which vary in their technical and design features and intended customers: Superbike, Supersport, Monster, Sport Touring, Multistrada and the new SportClassic. The Company’s motorcycles are sold in more than 60 countries worldwide, with a primary focus in the Western European, Japan and North American markets. Ducati has won thirteen of the last fifteen World Superbike Championship titles and more individual victories than the competition put together. For more information about the Company, please visit our web site at http://www.ducati.com.