It has been a while since I have had time for my 951, since getting a 2000 Ducati ST4. As their unofficial motto goes - "Making mechanics from riders since 1946".

The 916cc motor was developed for the SBK champion winning bike and develops 107 hp. After changing belt on the 951,it is funny to see the Ducatista sweating about changing the belts on the Desmoquatro's. The valve adjustment looks a little tricky, but not impossible.

Porsche also prepared me well for the cost of Ducati parts, although they are not nearly as easy to acquire.

 

Been there man, I had a 95 Monster 900. If it wasn't for me working on it I could have never afforded it. Good luck.

 

Thanks. I plan to do most or all of the work.

No way I am splashing out more than $1,000 every 2 years because the belts need replacing and the valves need adjusting. Belts are due for replacement every 2 years even if you haven't covered the 6,000 miles - and we complain about the 951 belt life! Fuel injection systems are similar, both have Brembo brakes and top speeds are even within a few mph of each other. They also both go through tires rather quickly.

Just like Porsches, there is a very healthy community of support and online resources available. A Ducati forum asked for pictures of owner's garages and it is very interesting to see how many had Porsche posters,flags or cars next to their bikes!