Unregistered

Frame No. 350S 04656215 Engine No.

- One of the best motorbikes in its class

- Lovely preparation

- Single-cylinder desmodromic engine specific to Ducati

- No reserve

The arrival of Fabio Taglioni as Chief Engineer at Ducati in 1954 would forever shape the personality of the Italian brand. In 1956, he developed a 125 cc racing engine with overhead valves and desmodromic distribution, a system that prevents erratic valve movements at high revs. Later used for engines up to 250 cc, this technology became the hallmark of the Bologna manufacturer, while asserting its sporting personality evidenced by various successes in racing. In 1968, the brand’s single-cylinder engines underwent a significant evolution with the “wide crankcase” versions which (with a tougher engine block) enabled engines with larger displacements. This led to the development of the 350 Mk3, available in either traditional or desmodromic versions. It is the latter that we are offering here, in a sporty version with a single-seater seat with a streamlined backrest, Tomaselli clip-on handlebars and an elongated fibreglass tank.

Known as one of the queens of its class at the time, this fine and lightweight motorcycle is a prime example of its kind; also well-preserved, it would be an ideal machine for historic racing events on the track.

Photos © G. Rizotto