Ducati’s ‘Mk 3’ series are widely regarded as some of the most beautiful road bikes ever made. Evolved from the ‘Diana’ range and with a single-cylinder OHC engine, the Mk 3 essentially relaunched the Italian brand into the single-cylinder sports bike segment.
The Mark 3s (250, 350 and 450) originally came with the single-cylinder “narrow casing” engine but from 1968 was offered with the race-derived “wide casing” unit seen here.
This one is the entry model, but no less appealing for it as it’s still a very lively bike, with eager performance and a highly distinctive soundtrack. It has been in the care of its current owner for 45 years – he bought it when he was 23, but with advancing years he’s decided it’s time to part with his long-term companion.
During his tenure, the bike has always been a leisure-only vehicle, so has covered just 28,000km from new, although the dials were changed in 2010 after they packed up. He can vouch for its history and he has maintained the bike as necessary, treating it to a new saddle, chain, clutch, exhaust pipe and multiple other components, as well as an engine-out overhaul.
The bike is offered for sale in fully functional condition, with no known mechanical issues, and is largely original and unrestored
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Owned by vendor since 1978
One previous keeper
Mechanically overhauled recently
New dials fitted in 2010 – vendor has retained the original odometer to back up the total 28,000km from new
Currently in France and registered on French plates
Barely used in recent years, but kept in full running order
Garaged stored for all of its life
THE CONDITION
Original metallic blue colour scheme
Unrestored and original
Body and frame in solid, undamaged order
Good frame, solid with no apparent issues other than minor surface rust
Very good saddle with no marks or damage – replaced in 2010s
There are various small marks all around the bike, including paint chips on the front mudguard and some small marks to the frame and side panels, but no damage or significant corrosion
Some of the chrome is pitted and age-deteriorated, but should respond well to careful cleaning and polishing
Good tyres and wheels
THE MECHANICS
250cc single
According to the vendor, the bike is in full working order
Engine-out cylinder head overhaul in 2010
Replacement exhaust system
Chain and clutch replaced
Drivetrain refurbished
All instruments and controls function as intended
SUMMARY
If you’re looking for an iconic bike to add to your collection, then the Ducati Mk 3 is a great candidate. It’s one of the most notable sports bikes of its era and this one oozes a wonderful unrestored charm, with a gentle patina that is as evocative as the Ducati name itself.
It’s a charming old thing, having covered very few kilometres in 50 years and having been dry stored and preserved, yet run occasionally to ensure everything still works as it should. It has been a part of its owners life for the past 45 years – now there’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make it a part of yours.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
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Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. Car & Classic may refer a shipping company that also deals with import/export paperwork. Prices start at €150+VAT within the same country or €400+VAT for moves across borders. For more details, email [email protected].
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1973 Ducati 250 Mk 3
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