1987 Bimota DB1SR, Frame no. DB1*00602*

1987 Bimota DB1SR
Frame no. DB1*00602*
• Fully restored example
• Original Specification

In the 1970s and 1980s, Japan's motorcycle frame design lagged behind that of its engines, meaning that anyone wishing to exploit a motor's full potential had little option but to opt for a bespoke chassis. A number of specialist firms sprang up to satisfy this demand, at the very pinnacle of which was – and still is – the Italian firm of Bimota. Founded in the mid-1960s, Bimota manufactured heating and ventilation ducting before the enthusiasm of two of its motorcyclist founders - Giuseppe Morri and Massimo Tamburini - saw it turn to motorcycle production in the early 1970s. The intervening 40-plus years has seen Bimota established as one of the world's foremost producers of exclusive, limited edition, high performance motorcycles with a reputation for quality second to none. Technical innovation too has long been a Bimota hallmark, while on the world's racetracks Bimota-framed machines have won hundreds of races and numerous championships, including the 350cc World title in 1980.

In 1985, Bimota turned to Ducati v-twin power for the DB1, installing the Bologna firm's air-cooled desmodromic engine beneath a multi-tubular frame. State-of-the-art suspension and brakes were courtesy of Marzocchi and Brembo respectively, while the DB1's quality of finish was of a level other Italian firms could only dream about. But then it did cost twice as much as a Honda VFR750.

Despite the confusing 'RS' on the fairing – some say a mistaken decal order at the factory – this bike is a high spec. version. The DB1 was designed by Bimota's Technical Director, and ex-Ducati engineer, Dr. Frederico Martini. Only 400 DB1s were manufactured between 1985 and 1987, after which the factory introduced a higher specification model designated the DB1SR. Ducati's 750 engine, for the SR, came with more radical cams, 41mm Dell'Orto carburetors and a 2-into-1 exhaust. Other upgrades included Brembo Gold series 4-piston front calipers. Only 153 DB1SRs were produced between 1987 and 1989, and many were raced by a host of famous riders including Italian Davide Tardozzi, Briton Alan Cathcart, and American Dale Quarterley among others.

The SR's increased performance came from removing the restricted air filters and exhausts and replacing the 36mm carbs with those of 41mm. The European spec. bike was quoted at 82 horsepower, close to a 15 horsepower increase from the DB1. Quoted top speed is 142mph. Surely, the DB1SR can be compared to Ducati's range of 750 F1 limited production editions, the Laguna Seca, Montjuich, and Santamonica.

This DB1SR is offered fully restored to what is believed to be its original specification – even as an 'RS' and not as an 'SR', repeating that original factory mistake. It looks stunning. Its history and service record is otherwise unknown.