c.1986 Ducati 400 F3, Registration no. not UK registered Frame no. ZDM400R 400001 Engine no. ZDM400AL 400008

Important Collectors' Motorcycles and Spares
c.1986 Ducati 400 F3
Registration no. not UK registered
Frame no. ZDM400R 400001
Engine no. ZDM400AL 400008
Considered by many enthusiasts to be the last of the 'real' (pre-Cagiva take-over) Ducatis, the race-styled F1 and F3 first appeared in 1985 and 1986 respectively. Ducati had already enjoyed considerable success with its Pantah-derived F2 racers in FIM Formula 2 racing so a '750' version was the logical next step. In 1986, the 350cc and 400cc F3 versions were introduced, intended for the Italian and Japanese markets respectively. Both of these smaller models used the 750 F1's frame; clearly visible above the deliberately cut away fairing sides, the new chassis attracted considerable attention: a trellis of short, straight tubes, it has formed the basis of every road-going Ducati since, as well as the first Desmosedici Moto GP racers. The principal difference between the F1 and its F3 siblings was the latter's lower-specification suspension and brakes. Only 900 400 F3s had been completed when production ceased at the end of 1988.

Offered from a private collection, this Ducati 400 F3 will require re-commissioning before returning to the road, and would benefit from detailing. The bodywork appears to be in generally good condition, though there the front indicators are damaged and the rears are missing. The odometer reading is 10 kilometres. Prospective purchasers should satisfy themselves with regard to this motorcycle's originality, correctness, and mechanical condition prior to bidding. There are no documents with this Lot, which is sold strictly as viewed.