It’s obvious that we’ll continue to see Ducati’s iconic “L-twin” for the foreseeable future, but the recent introduction of their V4 Panigale represents the end of the v-twin superbike era that really began with today’s Featured Listing Ducati 750GT. If you ask anyone to name the earliest Ducati v-twin, one of the Supersports is the one most likely to spring to mind. But this GT was actually the first, and possibly most significant machine to be powered by the elegant and desirable “Round Case” twin.
It’s difficult to overstate how important the v-twin was to Ducati’s present fortunes. Prior to the introduction of the 750GT in 1971, Ducati built single-cylinder road and race motorcycles, the most sophisticated of which used their now widespread Desmo heads that eschewed springs for a more precise and positive system of cams to both open and close the valves. But, singles, while profitable and popular in much of the world for their simplicity, economy, and light weight, would never have allowed Ducati to develop a real fan base in that largest and most lucrative of markets: North America.
The original incarnation of the roadgoing v-twin did not include Desmodromic valve actuation: until the Pantah, that was reserved for the Supersport models exclusively. However, it did use a system of tower shafts and bevel gears to operate the cams for very precise timing, and that clockwork masterpiece is a far cry from modern motorcycle engines that are often mercifully hidden behind fairings or a tangle of wires and hoses.
Performance for the 748cc engine was relatively modest by today’s standards, but this was a considered a serious machine and a 750GT can definitely keep up with modern traffic. Braking won’t be up to current standards, but the 60 claimed horses and 407lb dry weight meant a top speed of 125mph, so you can easily out accelerate most cars leaving a stoplight and handling was excellent.
Although only 4,000 or so 750GTs were actually built, they paved the way for Ducati’s big-bike ambitions and their current status as the premier European bike brand, with a balance of sales volume and exotic cachet that extends well beyond the enthusiast market and into the general population. This example is being offered by Moto Borgotaro, a Brooklyn-based shop that specializes in quality classic bikes, maintenance, and restorations.
From the Seller: 1975 Ducati 750GT for Sale
Bike is presented by Moto Borgotaro Inc. located in Brooklyn , N.Y.
This is a fantastic 3rd production stage 750GT that has a lot touches from the earlier series 750GT’s — I would call this the ultimate rider as that how it was set up… Why? well lets start with the good… complete motor rebuild in 2009 by Mike Duzick of Mikmar Motors, Paxinos, PA. earlier 72′ tank and tins, completely rebuilt wheels (high lip Borrani style), frame re-done, chrome redone, new Conti pipes, updated electrical, low bars, newer Avon’s.. the works.
Close up, flaws etc… The bike is excellent in person, minor flaws as follows — dash is cracked (common) and it is the earlier style 3 light, scratch on underside of rt. hand pipe, you only see it if your looking for it, brake lever bent out a bit on the end. No it is not 100% original but frankly the bike is fantastic and Mr. Duzick’s motor and restoration is excellent… ride this bike.. this is the one.
— There are more than 50 additional photos from restoration.
DETAILS
- Third production stage 750GT with earlier body work
- Engine # 756389
- Engine crank on up rebuild in 2009 by Mike Duzick of Mikmar Motors, Paxinos, PA
- 72′ GT tank and tins all re-done in black
- Restored seat
- New Contis
- New Chrome all around
- Complete rebuilt wheels
- Original shocks
- Sold with a clean New Jersey title
- Only 513 miles since restoration in 2009
- New Sealed battery
- New electrical, and electronic ignition
- Newer Avon Roadriders
The 750GT was probably the most practical of the original v-twins, and this one looks like the perfect collectible, round-case Ducati to actually ride on weekends. I’m a fan of Moto Borgotaro’s recent offerings and this bike seems pretty representative of the kind of bikes they’ve had available in the past: not over-restored, cosmetically “perfect” museum pieces, but extremely clean, well-maintained bikes for collectors who also want to regularly use their acquisitions. Head on over to the eBay listing for some more info, or just to keep an eye on the auction: there are just a couple days left, and bidding is up north of $18,000.
-tad
