xx9 frame off build

BIG OLD WAIST OF TIME...... 748 is a dog, might bolt in maybe, but why???

748 is a great motor but not massively powerful but a sweet bike nevertheless. I ride mine in the mountains and have no problem playing with modern machinery. As a trackbike it would work well on short tracks where the power disadvantage wouldn't be noticed as much. I believe there are a few threads on here where people have made a hybrid. I know the 748 swingarm (not sure about shock mount) will fit although wheelbase length is different to the xx9 being slightly shorter. TBs location could another issue. If the frame is ok on the 748 I would just fix that rather than purchase all xx9 parts as you will still need quite a bit such as gastank, subframe, seat, tailpiece etc to complete the project.

Yes, it can be done... but step back in performance and a waste of lotsa money. You 'd have to source a bunch of oddball parts from different bikes... IIRC modify an airbox to work with the TB's/999 frame... get a custom length shock built to fit the SSSA on the 999 frame; just to name a few. You'd be better off buying a clean 748 or 999.

The 748 is not a "dog". They are purpose built, like any Duc. Chase one through the twisties some day-you'll see. Those high revs sure come in handy

I'm defensive of my little Duc.


I would just drop another xx9 power plant in that frame and save some hassle. Either way you slice it, your wallet is going to catch on fire.

yes it is a dog, I have owned a 748 and a 748s back in the day and DOG. You say "They are purpose built" well I say Ducati Super bikes are purpose built for performance and a 748 does not perform in the stock trim. DOG.

ihighro11eri said:

I just recently acquired an 03 999 frame for cheap, and also found a 748 wrecked bike for cheap. Would all the parts from a xx8 bike fit on a xx9? I know that there are frame differences but would this work out for a track bike?

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If the frame you have is a rolling chassis, I mean complete, then find a newer 749/999 engine to put back into it, otherwise you will spend a boat-load of money to do it with a older-style engine, and it will be worthless when done.....

And if all you have is a bare frame, sell it on ebay......... I saw a nice 2003 999 sell in Cali recently for $4k running and complete!!

Thanks, I just bought it on impulse. Im going to try to resell it on ebay, or just paint ir red and turn into a coffee table!

if ur wanting to sell it PM me what ur looking to set your reserve at on ebay. Thanks

If its not that badly damaged why not keep it if you are looking for a trackbike? without knowing your trackday experience its hard to give your the appropriate advice, but for a novice the 748 is a great bike to start with, good handling and infinite ground clearance. There are plenty of parts out there for it as the most fantastic aspect about this model the 916, 996 and to a certain degree 998 is the parts interchangeability from 94 thru' 02. If the 748 motor lets go , its easy to replace it with a 996.