2003 Ducati 999R Motorcycle Preview

Ladies and gentlemen, start your saliva glands.

Ducati has pulled the wraps off its top-of-the-line model for 2003, the stunning 999R. At $30,000 it's a wee bit pricey, but the finer things in life always are. It's also a limited-edition bike, as the Bologna firm plans to only crank out 800 units. Of course, each bike will be delivered like a newborn, with a (birth) certificate of authenticity and a silver number plate on the triple clamp.

For your hard-earned 30 large you also get a smattering of trick bits, including a full carbon fiber fairing, five-spoke forged aluminum rims, radially mounted Brembo calipers and a magnesium headlight assembly.

As if that weren't enough, the R version comes with the 139 hp Testastretta motor (compared with the 124 hp mill in the 999), and a racing kit too. The kit includes a 102 db exhaust cannister without a catalyzer, a different CPU, rear wheel stand and a Ducati bike cover.

The 999R will be available exclusively online in December 2002 at Ducati.com.