Highlights

Kept within the same family since the 1980s
Complete bike that has been off the road since 1987
One of only 856 ‘steel tank’ models built
Odometer shows 900 miles, believed correct by the vendor
Compression confirmed on kick start despite being a non-runner
Comes with the original tax disc from 1987 and original Ducati key

The Appeal

Here is a chance to acquire a rather unusual and fascinating example of Ducati’s ultra-rare 70s cafe racer. We’re told it has been in the same family since the 1980s, when the seller's grandfather used it for work commuting. It was then dry stored from 1987 and has been unused ever since. With 900 miles showing, believed correct but not verified, this is a remarkable opportunity to acquire a highly original ‘barn find’ example of these brilliant classic bikes.

The 750S was built on Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari’s success in the Imola 200 1972 race and fitted with the same Fabio Taglioni-designed 90-degree L-Twin engine with Desmo drive. Only 1,625 were built over two years, and only 856 were fitted with the later steel tank on this example. It is one of only 200 built in 1974 and retains its correct ochre yellow paintwork with a black frame. The bodywork carries the marks of its long hibernation, with dents and scratches that will need attention, while the vendor describes the seat and handlebar accessories as being in relatively good condition

The bike is suitable for restoration, or could be preserved ‘as is’ in tribute to its unusual history. We’re told that it doesn’t start but has good compression. This is a project bike with genuine family history, awaiting its next chapter.

The vendor says:

“The bike does not start but it has compression on the kick start I’m not very mechanical but this is a great start, I also have original key for this bike too from Ducati.

“Needs a bit of work to the mechanical side and the body work of the bike but I think it’s relatively good condition for the age.”

Key Information

Mileage: 900 miles indicated (believed correct by the vendor)
Registration status: Not currently registered
MOT: MOT/road tax exempt
Technical specs: 748cc L-Twin Desmo, five-speed manual
Accompanying items: Original tax disc from 1987 and original Ducati key

The Detail

Does not currently start but has compression on the kick start
Factory standard bike with ochre orange paintwork and black decals
Paintwork and steel tank and trim show signs of age
Bodywork has dents and scratches requiring attention
Vendor describes the seat as being in relatively good condition
Handlebar accessories described by the vendor as being in relatively good condition
Last taxed and driven in 1987, stored off the road for approximately 39 years
Vendor states that bike does not start but has good compression
Buyers should treat this bike as a non-running restoration project

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..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.

✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection

or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.

✓ Unless stated otherwise, you must assume that any cherished, personalised, or heritage vehicle registration is not included in the sale of a vehicle.