Highlights

Restored and engine rebuilt by a known Ducati specialist
In the care of a Ducati specialist from approximately 1990 until passing to the current seller
Both the Conti and original Silentium exhausts included in the sale

The Appeal

The Ducati 450 Desmo is one of the most characterful Italian singles ever built. Its desmodromic valve train, which mechanically closes the valves rather than relying on springs, gave it a sophistication that set it apart from its contemporaries, and these narrow-case singles have become increasingly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

This 1975 example has been in the UK since new and spent many years in the hands of a known Ducati specialist, who owned the bike from approximately 1990 until it passed to the current seller. During that time it was fully restored and its engine completely rebuilt. The work was carried out with everyday usability in mind rather than concours perfection; the vendor describes it as a working restoration that's in great clean nick. Thoughtful modifications have been made to improve starting and day-to-day rideability, and the rims and most other parts are reported to be original. The vendor describes it as a solid road bike with plenty of torque and, in their words, handling that is in tip-top order.

Key Information

Mileage: 194 miles indicated
Country of registration: United Kingdom
MOT status: exempt
Technical specs: 450cc single-cylinder desmodromic four-stroke engine, five-speed gearbox
Paperwork: no specific documentation mentioned by the vendor
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The Detail

Engine has been mildly ported
Fitted with a Mikuni 34 carburettor in place of the original
12V Electrex ignition system fitted
Cylinder drilled and tapped for a decompressor to aid starting
Non-original gear change linkage fitted; described by the vendor as easier to use and more precise than the original
Conti exhaust currently fitted, showing some wear; original Silentium exhaust also included in the sale
Original engine case was replaced many years ago due to a crack, believed to have been caused by racing
Rims are original and most other parts are reported to be original
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BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller, which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

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