yeah. looks a bit more like a typical sportbike as he 1098 also sacrificed a little. i think it's sort-of a blend of the MotoGP bike a bit, which has less character in the lines. Here's a pic of the other side.
oh... a little EDIT myself... re Terblanche, etc...
HYPERR wrote:999 is the only Ducati superbike design that was not a ripoff of a Japbike. The 916 was quickly re-sketched after ... upcoming 1992 Honda NR750... current 1098/1198 series is a blend of a design highly influenced by the Honda CBRs and Yamaha R1/R6. ...always loved the design of the 999 ... weird style of Terblanche ...Hypermotard EDIT: I just remembered I hated and still hate the Terblanche designed Supersports. ... In contrast, the Cagiva era carbie Supersports like my '96 is IMBO one of the most beautiful bikes ever made.
That was all quite a lot, and only scratching the surface ... I too like the 999, although have never ridden one, but not as a Ducati ---> General word seems to be he got the egos right, etc., but it just wasnt right for Ducati. It may one of Terblanche's best. Unfortunately it looks so much like earlier Bimotas, and that is the crux of why I would say Terblanche made some 8/10 designs, but Tamburini did 9/10 and 10/10 (designing Bimotas from way way back, and other nice stuff later on). He was certainly a mentor for Terblanche.
I dont know the story of the NR750 influencing the 916, but could guess he liked the slotted twin headlight design and incorporated it into the 916. Other than that it kicks the NR into the gravel trap without even flinching. NR750 is a 6.5-7/10 overall in looks. Something completely different in the engine department however... so as usual you can emphasize the Honda MOTOR Co. Since they sure know how to do engine stuff.
i also loved the 1992 900ss ... with a HALF-FAIRING.
"Zounds! Zorched by Zarches, Spaceman Spiff's crippled craft crashes on planet Plootarg!"
For Sale: Ninja 600 with parts bike, needs minor work, $30, no title... (GEE THAT DOESNT RING ANY WARNING BELLS DOES IT?)