Considering an ST2

[Aaron]

A local dealership has a 1998 ST2 for sale. It has around 22k miles on the clock. It looks to be in nice shape, and has its hard bags, Ferracci carbon fiber slip-ons and Heli bars. They're asking $4,999 for it. They claim the previous owner is a Ducati fanatic who did all his own maintenance and everything is up to date.

My question is whether this is a good price for a nearly 10-year-old bike with that kind of mileage. Also, I know '98 was the first year for these bikes; are there issues I should look for/expect? And, finally, will there be wear issues I should consider at 22k miles? I think the engine should be solid (um, right?), but will the suspension be shot by this point?

I'd appreciate any input you can provide on this matter.

Thanks,
Aaron

[Desmo Demon]

Certain '98 ST2 bikes had recalls on the stator (a spacer), the intake fuel lines (they decomposed), the shift lever (for a longer one), and the retainer on the front sprocket (some were not heat treated). With the age and mileage, all of these should have been addressed on this bike. Also, the charging system on the '98 is specfic to that year only, and, mainly due to the location, the voltage regulator has been prone to frying.

I bought my '98 ST2 new in Aug of 2000 and have logged a fairly troublefree 25k miles on mine. I have replaced the clutch slave (a known weak point for leaking) and have replaced and relocated the voltage regulator. As for the $5000, I'd say, depending on condition, the bulk of '98 ST2 bikes go in the $4500-$5500 range, so that sounds about right. I've seen a few examples go for $4000, and some needing work below that. Regardless, try to talk them down some, as it is due for another valve adjustment and probably belts in another 2000 miles.

[Sock Puppet]

DD covered nearly everything.  If this is a Ducati dealer I would insist they perform the 24K.  The bike may very well have been owned by an enthusiast who did his own services perfectly.  Or it could have been misrepresented to the dealer to improve trade-in allowance.  If they perform a complete 24K service, then $5K isn't bad.  Otherwise, start your negotiations.

[couchflyer]

I think $4999 is too much for it.  Make sure the 24,000 mile maintenance has been done and I'd offer about $4150.00.