Description
This motorcycle is Lot 43 to be auctioned by Bonhams at the Timed-Online June Sale, please see the Bonhams website for full details. The timed online auction runs between June 6th through June 16th, with lots closing from midday June 16th 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 11th & 12th June 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, by appointment only at Bonhams Milton Keynes.
Lot 43
The Andy Chapman Collection – Part III
1975 Ducati 350cc Mark 3
Registration no. JBA 401N
Frame no. DM350S* 358973*
Engine no. DM350M3 22745
• Cosmetically restored to look like a 350 Desmo
• Acquired for the collection in 2019
• Requires recommissioning
Designed by the legendary Fabio Taglioni, Ducati's first overhead-camshaft single appeared in 1955. Desmodromic valve operation was a feature of the racing versions and would later be applied to the sportier roadsters. The first major revision to the original design occurred in 1967 with the introduction of the 'wide case' engine, which featured an aft engine mount wider than before and numerous other improvements, the most significant being a stronger big-end assembly. Mid-way through 1968 the Mark III was introduced in both valve-spring and Desmo versions, differences between the two being confined almost entirely to the cylinder head. Noteworthy subsequent developments included further increases in big-end size; the adoption of a Grimeca double-sided front brake; and the introduction of electronic ignition on the final Mark IIIs in 1973. Last produced in 1975, the latter came in blue/ gold (valve-spring) and yellow (Desmo) colour schemes, while a Brembo front disc brake was an option on the Desmos.
Cosmetically restored to look like a 350 Desmo, this late Ducati Mark 3 was acquired for the collection in 2019 and displays a total of 16, 769 miles on the odometer (at the time of cataloguing/ photography). Following a period of inactivity this motorcycle will require recommissioning to a greater or lesser extent, or possibly more extensive restoration, before returning to the road and thus is sold strictly as viewed. It should be noted that the HPI database records the previous colour as blue and that the V5C omits the 'DM350S' and 'DM350M3' frame and engine number prefixes; accordingly, prospective purchasers must satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's authenticity and originality before bidding. Additional documents include some expired MoTs, various invoices/ bills and a DVLA letter.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
