1975 Ducati 860GT, Frame no. 850483 Engine no. 850483 DM860

1975 Ducati 860GT
Frame no. 850483
Engine no. 850483 DM860
Ducati's second-generation v-twin engine - the 900cc 'square case' (actual capacity 864cc) - debuted in the 860GT, a tourer rather than a sports bike. More than just a simple over-bore, the square case engine incorporated a new camshaft drive (not desmodromic this time), improved oil pump, cartridge-type, spin-on oil filter and electronic ignition. In addition, the gearchange was moved to the left-hand side and the frame altered to provide chain adjustment at the swinging arm pivot. Ceriani forks, Marzocchi shocks and Brembo brakes were standardized.

The controversial angular design of the tank, side panels and seat was by Giorgetto Giugiaro but not loved by all at the time. The model was soon available with an electric starter, which became standard equipment on the re-designed 860GTS in 1976. A number of minor improvements, in particular to the ignition and electrical system, were incorporated in the successor 900GTS introduced in late 1976, though the engine capacity remained unaltered at 864cc. These 860GT/900GTS series were excellent motorcycles – 'real road burners without the back ache' – that are rare today. Only 1,671 GTs were produced in 1974.

This bike was sold new in 1978, in California, with the handlebars and front brakes upgraded at the time. Last registered in 1992 it subsequently sat in a collection. The vendor bought the somewhat dilapidated bike in 2013 since when he has installed new tires, grips, pegs and rear springs, rebuilt the carburetors and brakes, and re-wired it with a new battery. The paint remains original, with nice patina and most of the original parts come with the bike.