Bimota Tesi 3d
The Bimota Tesi 3d has a top speed of ~250 km/h, produces 110 hp and weighs 198 kg. Motoryk rates it 7.5/10.
The Bimota Tesi 3D was introduced in 2007 as a revival of Bimota's revolutionary hub-center steering concept originally debuted on the Tesi 1D in 1990. Rather than a conventional telescopic fork, the Tesi 3D uses a unique hub-center steering system with swingarms front and rear, completely separating braking and steering forces for exceptional handling precision. It remains one of the most technically distinctive and exclusive motorcycles ever produced, with limited hand-built production making it a collector's icon.
110 hp
Power
98 Nm
Torque
198 kg
Weight
~250 km/h
Top Speed
~6.5 L/100km (estimated real-world average)
Fuel
Faired
Body
Video Review
What Buyers Should Know
Hub-Center Steering System
The Tesi 3D uses a unique hub-center steering design instead of traditional forks, virtually eliminating brake dive and providing exceptional stability. However, this complex system requires specialist knowledge to service and parts can be difficult and expensive to source.
Strong Collector Resale Value
With only a few hundred units ever produced, the Tesi 3D holds its value exceptionally well and is considered a collector's piece. Low production numbers mean well-maintained examples can appreciate over time, making it a sound investment for enthusiasts.
Ducati Engine Reliability
The bike uses a Ducati 1078cc Testastretta engine, which is proven and relatively reliable, but Ducati's desmodromic valve system requires mandatory valve checks every 7,500–12,000 miles. Factor in the higher-than-average service costs before purchasing.
Generations & Specs by Year
Hub-center steering revival using Ducati 1078cc Testastretta engine, aluminum frame, hydraulic front suspension linkage.
"Engineering masterpiece that demands patience, cash, and commitment."
The hub-center steering genuinely rewrites the rules of front-end feel — there's near-zero dive under braking, and mid-corner bumps that would unsettle a conventional fork simply disappear, which is simultaneously eerie and addictive. The Testastretta DS pulls hard from 4,000 rpm with that characteristically ragged Ducati bark, and the aluminum frame keeps the whole thing surprisingly composed for something this exotic. But living with it is a genuine ordeal: the hydraulic steering linkage needs meticulous attention every few thousand kilometers, Bimota's parts supply has always been a dark comedy, and the ride quality around town is punishing in a way that feels less like 'sport' and more like 'punishment'. At nearly double the price of a Ducati 1098, you're paying for a philosophical argument about motorcycle design — one that Bimota wins on paper more convincingly than on a Monday morning commute.
Pros
Cons
Updated Ducati 1198cc engine, revised aerodynamics, improved suspension geometry, refined hub-center steering components.
Ducati 1158cc Superquadro engine upgrade, carbon fiber bodywork, Öhlins suspension, limited racing-oriented specification.
Used Buyer Review
"Extraordinary ownership experience, but only for the deeply committed."
$18,000-$32,000 usedThe Tesi 3D is one of those bikes that stops people dead in their tracks, and that hub-center steering setup genuinely changes how front-end feedback works through corners. It's not faster than a conventional sportbike, but the way it separates braking forces from steering inputs is properly addictive once you've dialed it in. Ducati's 1078cc Testastretta engine means parts aren't a complete nightmare to source, which is the only reason I'd say this is remotely sensible as a used purchase. Here's the brutal truth though — budget seriously for maintenance. These are hand-built Italian exotica from a tiny manufacturer that's gone through financial trouble multiple times. Finding a specialist mechanic who understands the steering geometry is genuinely hard, and some owners report sitting on waiting lists for Bimota-specific components. Inspect the hub-center linkages obsessively before buying, because worn bearings there create handling characteristics that'll genuinely scare you. If you find a well-documented, low-mileage example with full service history, it's a legitimate piece of motorcycle art that rides as uniquely as it looks. Just go in with eyes wide open about running costs.
Top 10 Accessories
Curated picks for the Bimota Tesi 3d — owned, ridden, recommended.
Common Problems
🔥 2 CRITICALGrab front wheel, feel for any looseness or clunking
Inspect gaskets, valve covers, and coolant reservoir level
Confirm parts availability before committing to purchase
Full cold start, check all dash lights and sensors function
✅Pre-Purchase Checklist
High maintenance, specialist-only, parts are scarce
Full Specifications
Rivals & Alternatives
Bikes that buyers cross-shop with the Bimota Tesi 3d
Ducati Panigale V4
Norton V4sv
Aprilia Rsv4
Mv Agusta F4
Bimota Db11
Compare Bimota Tesi 3d Side-by-Side
compare_arrowsSpecs, power, weight & buyer verdict — head-to-head with the bikes most often cross-shopped.
Bimota Tesi 3d vs Ducati Panigale V4
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bimota Tesi 3d vs Norton V4sv
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bimota Tesi 3d vs Aprilia Rsv4
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bimota Tesi 3d vs Mv Agusta F4
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
Bimota Tesi 3d vs Bimota Db11
Specs · Power · Buyer verdict
More Bimota Tesi 3d Guides
More from Bimota
View all Bimota models →Community Reviews
Discussion
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common problems with the Bimota Tesi 3d? +
Hub-center steering linkage wear and play: Grab front wheel, feel for any looseness or clunking (serious) | Ducati engine oil leaks and overheating: Inspect gaskets, valve covers, and coolant reservoir level (moderate) | Rare parts availability, long wait times: Confirm parts availability before committing to purchase (serious)
Is the Bimota Tesi 3d a good motorcycle? +
Extraordinary ownership experience, but only for the deeply committed. Rating: 7.5/10. Best for: Wealthy enthusiasts wanting unique riding experience daily. Avoid if: You need reliable daily transport or hate waiting.
What is the horsepower of the Bimota Tesi 3d? +
The Bimota Tesi 3d produces 110 hp @ 9,000 rpm, with 98 Nm @ 7,500 rpm of torque. Top speed: ~250 km/h.
Is the Bimota Tesi 3d good for beginners? +
Not really — the Bimota Tesi 3d is better for experienced riders (110 hp can be intimidating). Wealthy enthusiasts wanting unique riding experience daily Avoid if: You need reliable daily transport or hate waiting
Is the Bimota Tesi 3d reliable? +
Owners report 2 critical issues to watch for on the Bimota Tesi 3d, notably: Hub-center steering linkage wear and play (Grab front wheel, feel for any looseness or clunking). Buy with a pre-purchase inspection.
Is the Bimota Tesi 3d good for daily use? +
Wealthy enthusiasts wanting unique riding experience daily Fuel: ~6.5 L/100km (estimated real-world average).
How fast is the Bimota Tesi 3d? +
The Bimota Tesi 3d reaches a top speed of ~250 km/h, producing 110 hp at 198 kg curb weight. Real-world performance depends on rider weight, gearing, and road conditions.
What gear should I buy for a Bimota Tesi 3d? +
Motoryk has curated a Top 10 gear list specifically for the Bimota Tesi 3d, covering engine oil, tires, chain, battery, and brake pads — see motoryk.com/bikes/bimota/tesi-3d/top10. Each pick is matched to this bike's spec.
