51-year-old Ducati 750 SS sells for astonishing price

As rare, yet iconic models go from Ducati, the 750 SS very much fits that mold, and that’s been highlighted in the price as this 1974 model has just sold for: £103,500.

The Autumn Stafford sale was presented by Bonhams as part of The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show, with this particular bike being one of several that reeled in a figure north of £100k.

The V-Twin cafe racer was made famous by Paul Smart’s victory at the Imola 200 race in 1972, as it ultimately got the better of race-proven bikes such as the Triumph Tridents of Percy Tait, John Cooper and Ray Pickrell. It also defeated Giacomo Agostini and his full-factory MV Agusta. The bike continued to build its racing pedigree further when it competed in the AMA Battle of the Twins, as well as other racing events in the 1980s.

The 1974 model varied slightly compared to the Imola '72 bikes, with the most obvious differences being the addition of a centre-axle fork and Brembo front brakes. 

This 1974 example still features its original Scarab brakes, although the Bonhams listing says they are “currently requiring a rebuild”. It has also been fitted with Borrani WM3/2.15x18 alloy rims and Dell'Orto carburettors. 

When sold as part of the auction on 12 October, the bike had amassed 28,904km (17,960 miles).

The bike’s ownership dates back to 1984 when it was first brought to the UK and registered with a 'Q' plate by Robert Gibbs of Nuneaton. Since 1985 the bike has had three owners and has been fully restored by Made in Italy Motorcycles.

Photo credit - Bonhams Cars.

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