A rare Ducati ‘Barcone’ 125cc Grand Prix bike once owned and raced by Mike ‘the bike’ Hailwood is rolling over the auction block this spring at the Bonham’s sale Stafford.
The bike was acquired by Stan Hailwood when Ducati officially called time on its GP racing exploits, and the 22 bhp, 12,500 rpm single propelled Hailwood to a number of wins in Europe. It even appeared at the Isle of Man TT, albeit briefly as Hailwood crashed on the first lap. It did though go on to race again, taking a win at Zaragoza in Spain, and later helping the British rider to the 1960 British 125cc Championship.
With the fairings removed, the jewel-like twin-cam 'desmo' engine is revealed
The bike, known as D1 thanks to its engine number, most of its later life in the north of the UK, being passed around racers and collectors, with the last owners reported to be one Captain Forshaw who died aged 95 years in 2006. D1 has remained in the family collection until now.
Included in the sale is a selection of correspondence, including the instruction sheet for the bike (copy in Italian and a handwritten copy in English); a box of tools and spares; assorted black and white photographs; and an authenticity report. The Ducati is offered in 'as found' and untouched condition and offers the successful buyer the unrepeatable opportunity to carefully preserve and conserve a significant piece of the legendary Mike Hailwood's history.
The bike as raced in period - Image from Bonhams.com
The bike will be going under the hammer on Sunday 23rd April, and more information can be found on the Bonhams website.2023 Ducati Streetfighter V4S Review
