Description
1976 Ducati 900SS
Raced by Dave Cartwright between 1978 and 1980, under sponsorship from the dealer and prolific author, Mick Walker. A 1976 model first registered in 1977, it raced in three TT events, including the 1978 Formula One Isle of Man TT, famously won by Mike Hailwood. Finishing a very respectable 16th running what was ostensibly a showroom bike with lights with a best lap of over 100MPH!
Maintenance work was carried out by Dave Cartwright in period, with parts supplied by Mick Walker and others. Righthand shift conversion performed in preparation for the 1978 TT.
Sports Motorcycles, responsible for Mike Hailwood's race-winning TT bike in 1978, rebuilt the engine in 1988. Parts included; replacement crank cases, Imola cams, Omega pistons, a lightened clutch, and ‘three dog’ fifth and first gears. All documented.
Dave Cartwright last rode the Ducati during the 2013 Isle of Man Parade Lap.
Kept in a museum over the last decades seeing little use. Now recommissioned, she is ready to enjoy.
File:
A wonderful history file which includes various letters between previous owners, a letter from Mick Walker confirming its provenance, correspondence from Dave Cartwright, a collection of maintenance invoices including receipts from Sports Motorcycles as well as Brancato Engineering. Period photographs of the bike in action, a workshop manual, registration documents and MOT certificates.
Condition:
Not a concourse bike, showing signs of a life lived, including some scratches, a small blister on the fuel tank, small stone chips and scuffs on the fairing, tail and frame. The overall presentation is very good, the bike is a looker! Big bore headers and replica Contis from Brancato are currently fitted. Additionally, it retains the righthand shift configuration from period. Super engaging and exciting to ride, pulling strong, revs responsively, and stable at speed.
Recent Service History:
Sachse electronic ignition system installed. (Straightforward starting with no kickback).
New engine oil and filter / carburettors rebuilt and adjusted.
The brakes have been checked.
Forks serviced with new oil.
New correct Yuasa Battery
New correct Energica reg / rec.
In Summary:
I have owned and cherished the bike for the past 3 years, keeping it in the Isle of Man for much of this time. It was always appreciated and attracted all the right attention. A “stand out from the crowd” 900SS due to its interesting life and direct connection to the fabled 1978 TT, a keystone event in Ducati’s history.
See website for additional pictures.
Global shipping at cost.
