1980 Ducati Darmah 900 SS Desmo
Frame no. DM900SD*950880 Engine no. 904536 DM860

Collectors' Motorcycles at the Barber Museum|5 October 2019, 12:00 CDT|Birmingham, Barber Motorsports Museum

1980 Ducati Darmah 900 SS Desmo
Frame no. DM900SD*950880
Engine no. 904536 DM860

Ducati's second-generation v-twin engine - the 900cc 'square case' (actual capacity 864cc) - debuted in the 860 GT tourer. More than just a simple over-bore, the square case engine incorporated a new camshaft drive arrangement, improved oil pump, cartridge-type oil filter and electronic ignition. In addition, the gearchange was moved to the left-hand side and the frame altered to provide chain adjustment at the swinging arm pivot. The model was soon available with electric starter. An improvement on its predecessors in many ways, the 860 GT took a step backwards in styling – courtesy of Giorgetto Giugiaro's Italdesign - a mistake Ducati rectified with the introduction of the Darmah range in 1977. Superbly restyled by Leo Tartarini, the Darmah re-established the lithe, streamlined look of the original Ducati v-twin while offering better performance courtesy of the 860 motor with the high(er) lift 900 SS camshaft. Build quality was much improved by using a mixture of Bosch, Lucas and Nippon Denso electrics and controls. Ducati developed the Darmah alongside the 900 SS, GTS and, in 1980, the Mike Hailwood Replica...the model series (SD and soon the SSD) being fed the mechanical improvements as and when they might fit and aesthetic changes as the marketing department's forecast might demand. And these changes did not come just at the beginning model year. This 900 Super Sport Desmo, homologation no. DCM 191390M for 1980, was acquired by the seller from Ohioan Bill Herring, a well-known Ducati enthusiast, ready for restoration. Said restoration was not yet completed at the time of catalog photography – in June this year – with much work was still to be done. The tank and bodywork were already out for preparation and re-finishing at that time, too. The seller assures Bonhams that the bike will be fully finished well prior to the auction. Beautiful and both to original and stock specification, correct in Silver and Blue. And thus we must assume that after your close inspection, this rare US model 900 SSD Darmah will be ready to show or ride, or best of all, both.

Footnotes

As with all Lots in the Sale, this Lot is sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

Please note this motorcycle is an SSD model, not an SD. A complete set of indicators is offered with the lot. The rear taillight will be sent to the successful buyer. The rear light/license plate bracket is missing. Additionally, The title will be in transit.

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact customer services.
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