Ducati stars on the track and beyond. A valuable GP6 developed by the Borgo Panigale-based manufacturer for the 2006 MotoGP season has been made available until December 5 by the well-known auction house Sotheby's at a price ranging between $400,000 and $800,000.
Technically refined enough to be coming close to a Formula 1 Ferrari, the model in question was used by Loris Capirossi at the Japanese GP held at the Motegi circuit. At that juncture, after taking pole position, the Imola rider managed to snatch victory from Valentino Rossi, thus ending the 990 era before the conversion to the 800 cc, in the best possible way.
Also with the same model, Troy Bayliss became the protagonist of a legendary feat. By now committed to the SBK championship again, he was called for the last MotoGP round held at Valencia, and despite very little preparation he managed to win and set the track record. A result way above expectations for the Italian team, which in Spain could also celebrate a 1-2 thanks to the second place by Capirex.
Securing such a bike is therefore a unique opportunity given that it is one of the six 250-hp Reds capable of crossing the finish line first in the 990 era. The private collector who bought it directly from the manufacturer on February 19, 2007, left it intact as noted by the last race control label affixed at the Ricardo Tormo circuit, which is still intact.
Finally, latching on to the subject of four wheels, seven-time Formula 1 world champion Michael Schumacher also had a chance to try it out on the track. Those interested can click on this link.