1974 Ducati 750 Sport

Lot details
Registration No: Un-Reg
Frame No: DM750S-756637
Engine No: DM750-756641
cc: 750

Introduced in 1972, the Ducati 750 Sport is today one of the most sought after classic Ducati's. Developed from the 750 GT, the Sport was an altogether more focused machine offering a claimed 60bhp compared to the GT's 55bhp, the increase in power output resulting from an increase in compression ratio and the replacement of the 30mm carburettors of the GT with Dell'Orto PHF32mm units, together with a lighter crankshaft and pistons. The increase in power was complimented by a reduction in weight, due largely to the use of fibreglass for the mudguards, seat and petrol tank, although from 1974 the latter tended to be replaced by a steel item. The first machines employed the 750GT frame but this was quickly replaced by a dedicated chassis with a slimmer rear subframe. Early model employed leading axle Marzocchi forks, followed by Ceriani centre axle units and ultimately a return to Marzocchi components, now with a centre axle. The brakes also underwent changes with Lockheed, Brembo and Scarab components gracing the front end at different times during the models production life. Finished in yellow with black trim and initially black engine cases, these giving way to polished items during 1974, the 750 Sport is arguably one of the most handsome motorcycles ever produced.
The late example offered was fitted with 750SS Desmodromic cylinder heads during the 1980s by NCR for its then German owner. Described as being in good condition both mechanically and cosmetically it has resided in Japan in recent years. It offers a rare opportunity to acquire a machine that, to quote Motorcyclist Illustrated 1974 road test, "stands level with the very best that history can offer to match it, and as a sporting machine probably better than almost any other big roadster in production".