YEARS SOLD: 2006–2010
BASE MSRP NEW: $9995 ('06) to $11,495 ('10)
BLUE BOOK RETAIL VALUE: $9550 ('06) to $12,280 ('10)
BASIC SPECS: This Ducati is powered by one of the great engines of its generation, a 992cc, sohc, two-valve-per-cylinder, 90-degree V-twin that's rich in character and packed with torque. It's a perfect complement to the Sport Classics' retro styling. The high-quality shocks, inverted fork, and triple Brembo brakes, however, are anything but old school.
WHY IT'S DESIRABLE: Ducati's Sport Classic was slightly ahead of its time, and there is no question that the bikes in the series, including the Sport 1000S, Sport 1000, GT1000, and in 2006 the Paul Smart 1000LE, were instant classics. With styling based on heritage models and power coming from the ultra-refined two-valve twin, this bike was a match made in desmo heaven. No surprise, then, that every version of the Sport Classic has held its value incredibly well, either barely dipping below their original MSRPs or appreciating substantially as the Paul Smart LE model has done. In our opinion, a great choice is the GT1000, whose more upright riding position and cushy stepped seat make it the most comfortable of the three.
THE COMPETITION: Because these stylish, sporty bikes were ahead of the current retro curve, there wasn't much in the way of direct competition. Most notable are the Triumph Bonneville and Thruxton and Moto Guzzi Griso 1100/1200 8V. Ducati's own air-cooled Monsters of the era make a good, non-retro alternative and generally cost less in the used market.
