The Andy Chapman Collection - Part II, c.1974 Ducati '750SS Replica'

• Based on the 750GT
• Formerly resident in Denmark
• UK-registered since 2011
• Present ownership since 2019

It was, without question, Paul Smart's famous victory at Imola in April 1972 that really put Ducati's new v-twin on the map. It was a particularly sweet occasion for hitherto unfancied Ducati, as the Bologna factory defeated not only the race-proven Triumph Tridents of Percy Tait, John Cooper and Ray Pickrell, but also the works 750 MV Agusta of Giacomo Agostini. With such an outstanding pedigree, the 750SS was a natural choice for racing's Superbike category, and later on proved highly competitive in 'Battle of the Twins' (BOTT) racing in the USA and Europe.

Smart's bike was based on the 750GT roadster introduced that same year. The racer's cycle parts remained close to stock - even the centre stand lugs were retained! - merely being up-rated with triple Lockheed disc brakes, while the engine gained desmodromic cylinder heads, high-compression pistons and stronger con-rods. When the definitive production version - the 750SS - appeared in 1974 it differed little in overall conception from the Imola '72 bikes, among the most obvious external differences being the adoption of a centre-axle fork and Brembo front brakes. The big 'Imola' fuel tank and humped racing seat both featured on the road bike, which wore a cockpit faring rather than the racer's fuller streamlining. Only 401 examples of the original 'round case' version were built before being superseded by the less desirable 'square case' model for 1975. Today the landmark '74 750SS is one of the most sought-after of all Ducati's.

As is so often the case with rare and exotic vehicles, the scarcity of genuine survivors has led to the creation of replicas such as that offered here, which uses the correct 'round case' type of engine. The frame appears to be from a circa 1974 750GT and the engine from a circa 1972 750GT, while other notable features include Lockheed front brake callipers and Conti silencers.

Our vendor purchased the Ducati in 2019. Previous owner Mr Dave Cowpe had bought the Ducati from a dealer in Denmark in 2011. The machine comes with a copy of the seller's email listing its specification (perusal essential); however, it should be noted that it has not proved possible to verify any of the claims made. Accordingly, prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves with regard to the nature, authenticity and condition of this motorcycle's constituent parts prior to bidding.

Accompanying documents also include sundry bills; assorted correspondence; a current V5C document; and a copy of Real Classic magazine's January 2012 article on this machine (when it was owned by Dave Cowpe). Following a period of inactivity, this motorcycle will require re-commissioning to a greater or lesser extent, or possibly more extensive restoration, before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed (the engine turns over with compression).
Offered with key