

Ducati
851
Sport · 851 cc
- Engine
- 851 cc
- Power
- 90 hp
- Weight
- 198 kg
- Price range
- €11,994 – €29,999
- Avg. mileage
- 25,516 km
- Common year
- 1990 · 7 motorcycles
What should you pay for a 851?
See typical prices, price changes and important differences.
What is a typical asking price?
Choose the model year and mileage for a focused comparison.
Based on asking prices, not sale prices. Trim, condition, maintenance and warranty still matter.
Based on price data from 4 of the past 12 months.
Used prices have held steady since July 2026.
851 at a glance
Quick reference values. Model year, generation and trim can differ.
Displacement
851 cc
Power
90 hp · 66 kW
Torque
80 Nm
Category
Sport
Specifications
- Displacement
- 851 cc
- Power
- 90 hp · 66 kW
- Torque
- 80 Nm
- Weight
- 198 kg
- Seat height
- 780 mm
- Top speed
- 240 km/h
- Production
- 1988 – 1992
- Category
- Sport
Search results
Also worth considering
Models in the same category and price range to consider alongside the 851.
Generations and editions
Features and handling differ by generation. Use this overview to find the right version.
Years
1988 - 1992
1988–1992 851
GenerationThe 851 is the liquid-cooled 851cc Desmoquattro superbike and precursor to the 888/916. Verify frame/engine numbers, cooling, injection and original race/bodywork.
About the Ducati 851
The Ducati 851 is a historically significant Italian superbike produced from 1988 to 1992. It was the first production Ducati to combine a liquid-cooled 851cc L-twin with desmodromic four-valve cylinder heads and fuel injection. The 851 won Ducati the first two Superbike World Championship titles in 1990 and 1991, with Doug Polen and Raymond Roche taking the riders' crowns. The road version (Strada) and the race-kit version (Superbike Kit) were sold alongside each other.
The 851 is not for beginners: the ergonomics are uncompromisingly sporty and desmo valve maintenance requires specialist knowledge. Today the bike is a sought-after collector's piece in the vintage superbike segment. It rivals the Honda RC30 and Yamaha OW-01 in collectible status. Well-maintained examples are rare; documented service history is decisive at purchase.
- Category
- Sport
- Production
- 1988 – 1992
- Power
- 90 hp
- Weight
- 198 kg
What to check before buying
- Check desmodromic valve clearances: these must be adjusted every 12,000 km by a certified technician; neglected maintenance causes serious engine damage.
- Inspect coolant hoses and the radiator for leaks and age cracks; replacement parts are scarce.
- Check the condition of the Weber-Marelli injection ECU and wiring harness for oxidation; faults are expensive to diagnose.
- Examine aluminium frame welds for hairline cracks, especially around the steering head; early production aluminium can suffer fatigue.
- Ask for complete documented service history; for a classic like this, proof of desmo servicing is value-determining.
Frequently asked questions about the Ducati 851
What does a used Ducati 851 cost?
A used Ducati 851 costs €12,995 on average. Most cost €11,994 to €29,999. This is based on 11 motorcycles for sale now.
How many used Ducati 851 are for sale?
MotorMonitor now compares 11 used Ducati 851 motorcycles from Dutch sales sites.
What year and mileage does an average used Ducati 851 have?
The average used Ducati 851 is from 1990 and has done about 25,516 km.
















