1975 Ducati 239cc Mark III Project
Registration no. KDS 263N
Frame no. DM239 104599
Engine no. DM239 113067
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 when the 'wide case' engine was introduced, 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.

This Mark III was acquired by the vendor, its fourth owner, in 1979. The machine had been crashed and the frame repaired before then, while the tank and bodywork were acquired later. The engine was rebuilt in the 1980s and the Ducati was last on the road in 1996. Offered for restoration and sold strictly as viewed, this exciting project is offered with copies of the 1996 MoT and old V5; a lengthy list of components purchased and their costs.
Offered without key
Footnotes:
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.