pre 1972 Ducati Mk3 Desmo 250cc. Registration number not roa...

Hammer

£5,000

pre 1972 Ducati Mk3 Desmo 250cc. Registration number not road registered. Frame number DM250 * covered by the fairing bracket. Engine number 113296.
In 1968 Ducati launched the first 'Desmo' road bikes in 250cc and 350cc capacities, born out of their racing program, Ducati’s Desmodromic valve actuation system, has valves that are both opened and closed by cam followers, rather than relying on coiled springs.
This example was constructed from pre 1972 parts by our vendor in 1989 specifically for the Manx Grand Prix lightweight classic race as a second ride for his Norton 500. Built from spares, on a tight budget, it was not completed or run prior to arrival and final setting up was during practice.
On the day it was down on speed compared to the 2 stroke Suzuki's but was reliable and ultimately finished 2nd on the day behind Dave Smith on an Aermacchi, 3rd was another Ducati. It is believed that this was the last time that three four strokes were on the podium before the two strokes took over the honours. Following further development he returned in 1990 (5th) and 1991 (7th), in 1992, with wet conditions affecting the electrics, he was mid table when the race was cancelled. The bike was then retired to his shed.
In 2015/16 he totally restored the bike with the intention of entering the Festival of 1000 Bikes at Mallory but other circumstances got in the way and the bike has not been ridden since the restoration.
During the restoration the engine was rebuilt with all new bearings and seals, big end overhauled, and the crankshaft refurbished. The brakes were fully rebuilt, the tacho overhauled and new cables.
He has now decided it is time for a new owner to enjoy and it comes with 4 rear sprockets, a Scitsu charging lead, Desmo valve springs, collars and shims, piston rings, a two piece paddock stand, 1989 period race photos and various receipts and details of the engine spec.