Description
This motorcycle is Lot 257 - To be auctioned by Bonhams at The Spring Stafford Sale (The International Classic MotorCycle Show) on 26th & 27th April, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Auction Timings:
Lots 101 - 147 are to be sold from 14:00 on Saturday 26th April 2025.
Lots 201 - 410 are to be sold from 11:00 on Sunday 27th April 2025.
Public Viewing:
Available 26th & 27th April 2025 from 09:00 until 17:00, at The Stafford County Showground (The International Classic MotorCycle Show).
Lot 257
1962 Ducati 125cc Formula 3 Racing Motorcycle Project
Registration no. not registered
Frame no. F029
Engine no. n/ a
Although visibly similar to their road-going equivalents, Ducati's Formula 3 production racers were very different motorcycles featuring sand-cast crankcases and special engine internals, while the camshaft bevels and primary drive featured straight-cut gears. The gearbox was a four-speeder. Lower and lighter than the roadster versions, the frames featured a lowered steering head, shorter forks, and a shorter swinging arm. Brakes were upgraded to racing specification. Hand built in small numbers, the Formula 3 Ducatis were necessarily expensive; indeed, in the UK the 175cc version cost more than a 500cc Manx Norton! Understandably, production of these exotic Formula 3 models was limited, perhaps amounting to fewer than 100, making any genuine example extremely rare today.
This Ducati Formula 3 was purchased new by the previous owner from a dealer in Manchester. The engine blew up at the first meeting and the frame subsequently modified to take a Yamaha engine (the original Ducati engine was stolen). The current owner bought the Ducati five years ago but has been unable to complete the project due to ill health. Sold strictly as viewed.
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. Visit the Bonhams Motorcycles website for all pertinent auction information.
