1973 Ducati 750 GT Project

• Sold new in France
• Outstandingly original
• Only three owners from new
• Offered from a significant private collection

Designed by the legendary Fabio Taglioni, Ducati's first road-going v-twin - the 750 GT - arrived in 1971. Lacking the resources of larger Far Eastern rivals, Ducati had made the most of what it already possessed to create one of the all-time great post-war motorcycles. A 90-degree vee, the engine looked like two of the Bologna firm's bevel-drive overhead-cam singles on a common crankcase (which in essence it was) though the coil valve springs represented a departure from Ducati's traditional hairpins. The 90-degree layout made for exceptional smoothness and a lengthy wheelbase, a handicap more apparent than real that failed to stop the fine-handling Ducatis notching up a succession of wins in Formula 750 events, commencing with Paul Smart's famous victory at Imola in April 1972. Without question, it was Smart's Imola win that really put Ducati's new v-twin on the map. It was a particularly sweet occasion for hitherto un-fancied 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 MV Agusta of Giacomo Agostini.

Offered as a project, this 1973 Ducati 750 GT, engine number '752680', is a rare, totally original example. Sold new in France on 27th July 1973, it passed on 10th July 1974 to its second owner, a student, who retained the machine until his death, storing it carefully. Purchased in France by the vendor, it has since formed part of a significant private collection where it has been carefully preserved. It remains in the same condition in which it was found: as the French would say, 'dans son jus'.

The Ducati retains the original owner's saddlebag and boots, and it is believed to have originally been painted red. The odometer reading is 29,357 kilometres, believed to be original. The machine is complete and the engine turns freely, though a full mechanical overhaul is recommended before returning it to the road. Some cosmetic attention would improve its presentation.

Included with the bike are its original French Carte Grise of 1974; NOVA confirmation; a Revue Technique; one key; and a box of spare parts, notably including a kickstart and the original owner's manual. One of the most original Ducati 750 GTs still in existence, this machine represents a potentially most rewarding project and a rare opportunity to acquire a genuine piece of Ducati history, preserved with care for over 50 years.
Offered with key