Ducati’s 999 has been around for two years now and the styling that was seen as quite controversial on release has slowly started to be accepted by the Ducatisti.

The Testastretta engine that debuted around the same time as the 999 is light years ahead of its predecessor. By that I am referring to how tractable and more refined the new engine is compared to that seen in the early 916 series of bikes. Power has been gained for sure, but it is that refinement that was really needed. The 999 also brought improved ergonomics via an adjustable seat and pegs.

For 2005, Ducati has not made wholesale changes to the 999 but have concentrated on further fine tuning of the model. The most obvious change is the aluminium alloy box section swingarm which exactly replicates the factory race bikes.

The rider is now better protected thanks to a wider and higher front fairing and screen which also helps to improve overall aerodynamics. The fairings are now made of a special new polymer material which is a kilogram lighter than the previous panels. The indicators have now been integrated with the mirrors which are now situated further apart.

Brembo supplies the braking components which amount to a pair of 320mm discs and triple bridge four-piston calipers up front aided by a single 240mm disc at the rear. The front brake and clutch are actuated by radial master cylinders and are adjustable for reach. The slightly higher specification 999s model scores radially mounted calipers.

Fully adjustable suspension graces both ends of the machine. Fully adjustable upside-down 43 mm Showa forks with low friction TiN treatment and a Showa rear shock smooth the bumps on the base 999 while the 999s scores tasty Ohlins FG315 forks and shock. The single seat version has a different shock from the twin seat model. The bikes roll on lightweight, five spoke Brembo/Marchesini rims.

Of course a lot of people buy a Ducati for one reason, the sound. If you choose the 999s model it comes with a Termignoni exhaust system and matching ECU to really unleash some serious bark.

Overall the 999 is certainly a better performer and a whole lot more civil than the original 916 series. But Ducati sales actually fell a little bit last year as the public just didn’t take to the new bikes looks as much as they had admired the previous machines. A pity, the riding experience on the newer models is a far less painful affair than the originals.