[3] The engine is a 999cc dual overhead cam V-twin unit with two fuel injectors and four valves per cylinder.

Prior to the rules change, 750 cc four-cylinder motorcycles were the dominant force in production-based competition.

In 2001, Ducati regained the title but the RC51 was still a contender boasting superior reliability with comparable speed and power.

The RC51 won again in its final year of factory-supported racing in World Superbike in 2002 after Edwards' tremendous title fight with Troy Bayliss.

A stronger, more rigid frame and swingarm were identical to the WSB race bike parts and engine modifications boosted peak power by 3 kW (4 bhp) and cut weight by 5 kg (11 lb).