1975 Ducati 750 Sport

Designed by the legendary Fabio Taglioni, Ducati's first road-going v-twin - the 750 GT - arrived in 1971. Lacking the resources of larger rivals from Japan, Ducati made the most of what it already possessed to create one of the all-time great motorcycles of the post-war era. 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 Ducati vees notching up a succession of wins in Formula 750 events, commencing with Paul Smart's famous victory at Imola in 1972.

Based on the original 750 GT tourer, the 750 Sport was an altogether more exciting looking beast and backed up its stunning looks with improved performance courtesy of a maximum power hike from 50 to 56bhp. Built only until 1974, the Sport underwent minor changes to its front fork and disc brake but otherwise changed little, and was only ever sold in the classic yellow/black livery shared with the Desmo singles. First of a noble line of sporting Ducati v-twins, the 750 Sport is a true landmark machine; much rarer than, for example, the later Mike Hailwood Replica, it is one of the most sought-after of all Ducatis. Only 1,625 were made - the majority between 1973 and 1974 - with a handful built for Australia in 1978.

This Ducati 750 Sport has been owned by the private vendor since 1991 (purchase receipt on file) and was last running in 2022. We are advised that the Ducati has been used sparingly by the vendor and treated to regular oil changes. The machine originally had a single Scarab front disc brake, which has been replaced with an AP Racing twin-disc setup by renowned marque specialists, Baines Racing. There are numerous invoices on file for works carried by Baines during the present ownership, plus an even greater number of previous bills from other specialists. Accompanying paperwork also includes various photographs, some photocopied literature, and an old-style V5 registration document.

It should be noted that the engine is currently seized, with one piston stuck in the cylinder bore and the front spark plug unable to be removed. Accordingly, this motorcycle is being sold strictly as viewed.

Prospective bidders should also be aware that the frame number is partially obscured by a welded fairing bracket, preventing verification of the complete number. As a result, we are unable to confirm the full frame number, and bidders must satisfy themselves as to the validity and accuracy of the Vehicle Registration Number prior to bidding.
Offered with key