How to be sure its a genuine 998S
 

Havent been around here since selling my 900ss FE a while back, but looks like its Ducati time again.They are a bit like an itch that has to be scratched.
Anyway settled on a 2003 998s . Needless to say I have been reading up on the specs etc, but how can I be absolutely certain it is a genuine S and not a bitsa? There is reasonable paperwork, and it seems genuine,but is there a database of engine numbers anywhere,or is the fact that it has an alloy subframe,the correct suspension enough?

Easiest thing is to look underneath... the S has the deep-sump engine, 136 bhp as opposed to the 123 of stock. If in any doubt just phone Ducati UK with the VIN - they'll give you chapter and verse, down to whether it's an official import etc.

Well thats simple enough,and good to hear Ducati UK are helpful. Cheers