Advice on purchasing Ducati single

[blackvt]

Hi all

I am currently in the market for a late 60's early 70's Ducati single. I have owned and currently own late model Ducati's. I have no experience with vintage motorcycles as such. Therefore I intend to buy something complete and running, most probably restored already. Ease myself into it so to speak.

Just wondering if anyone has advice for a newcomer such as myself. What to look for? What to watch out for? Pitfalls? Traps? All advice is appreciated.

Thanks in advance

Dave

[DewCatTea-Bob]

" I am currently in the market for a late 60's early 70's Ducati single. "

____ Welcome to this w.site Dave!

____ Are you aware of the price-range that such old DUKEs sell for these days?
Also, what state/country are you in?


Hopeful-Cheers,
-Bob

[blackvt]

Thanks for the welcome Bob.

I reside in Australia.

____ Are you aware of the price-range that such old DUKEs sell for these days?

I have seen prices ranging between AU$10 000 to over AU$20 000 (roughly US$9 000 to US$18 000) for MK III 450's. I would assume $20K would buy me something pretty smick. Am I off the mark?

It has been in the back of my mind for a few years now, but it seems they are few and far between. After looking through this site I have decided to make a concerted effort to track something down.

I appreciate that my original question may be a little general as I am not hunting for a specific model, year etc.

Cheers Dave

[DewCatTea-Bob]

" I have seen prices ranging between AU$10 000 to over AU$20 000 (roughly US$9 000 to US$18 000) for MK III 450's.
I am off the mark? "

____ I'd say that's about 2 or 3 times higher than you should hope to find a nicely restored DUKE for.


Hopeful-Cheers,
-Bob

[blackvt]

"____ I'd say that's about 2 or 3 times higher than you should hope to find a nicely restored DUKE for

While nothing would make me happier than to purchase something for 1/2 or 1/3 these prices. It appears this is not the case at the moment in Australia. I have tracked down three 450 MK III for sale, with asking prices of $12 500, $15 000 and +$20 000 (Au dollars).

While it may be cheaper to buy something from oversea's and import it into Australia, I unfortunately do not have the time or inclination to do so. Therefore I am left with the task of competing in the small (overpriced?) domestic market.

Hence the original question. I have a budget of around AU$15 000 and appreciate any assistance which will help me avoid buying a "lemon".

It appears that singles come up for sale very occasionally thus I am prepared to be patient and bide my time. I will continue to keep an eye out and in the meantime research as much as I can.

Cheers

Dave

[MotoMike]

There is a sweet mk3 on the home page for sale. Don't know what you mean about the time or inclination to find and ship one over there, but this one might work without too much time and probably be in your price range.

http://www.motoscrubs.com/Legored.htm

[DewCatTea-Bob]

" and appreciate any assistance which will help me avoid buying a "lemon". "

____ Well I think most everyone here would agree that that term is really not applicable to any OHC-DUKE.
__ Making an 'investment' aside, if you're just looking for a 'rider' or 'keeper', then about the only advice I can rightfully offer, is to avoid getting any DESMO-model, (with the possible exception of a 250D),, unless it's mainly your wish to impress the hot-rod crowd.
(Anyone who disagrees, please submit your reasoning!)


DUKE-Cheers,
-Bob

[blackvt]

There is a sweet mk3 on the home page for sale. Don't know what you mean about the time or inclination to find and ship one over there, but this one might work without too much time and probably be in your price range.

http://www.motoscrubs.com/Legored.htm

Thanks Mike. Indeed it is a very impressive example. My main concern with importing a bike is I currently work oversea's and only get home for possible 10-14 days every three months or so. I am currently working in Russia. Therefore in the relatively short time that I am home I would prefer not to be jumping through hoops and associated red tape in regards to importing.

I have had mates that have imported cars and all of them have said "Never again!".

Having said all that you have given me the inspiration to find out what is actually involved.

Cheers

Dave

[blackvt]

" and appreciate any assistance which will help me avoid buying a "lemon". "

____ Well I think most everyone here would agree that that term is really not applicable to any OHC-DUKE.

Fair enough. Possibly I have used the wrong phrase. AU$15 000 is a significant "investment" for me, therefore as a novice I was just looking for some tips.

__ Making an 'investment' aside, if you're just looking for a 'rider' or 'keeper', then about the only advice I can rightfully offer, is to avoid getting any DESMO-model, (with the possible exception of a 250D),, unless it's mainly your wish to impress the hot-rod crowd.
(Anyone who disagrees, please submit your reasoning!)

Thanks. Exactly the type of advice I am after. I am looking for something that I can ride even if only occasionally. Something to start me off in the world of vintage Ducati's. Would you mind expanding your answer for me? Why should I stay away from a Desmo? What makes a 250D the exception?

Thanks for all the help

Dave

[JimF]

Hi Dave,

Phil Hitchcock of Road and Race may be able to advise you on the relative ease or complexity of importing bikes into Australia, and what potential pitfalls you might be able to avoid through proper planning.

For that matter, Phil might be able to put you in touch with any people selling Duc singles right there in your country of Australia, or perhaps Phil even has one or two for sale on the floor (I've never been to Australia, much less to Road and Race, but I will assume that R&R has a floor!)

I have heard anecdotal stories that a significant portion of Ducati's production in the 60s and 70's went to the Australian marketplace.

If you do buy a single you will probably use Phil as a parts resource, so getting to know him now might not be time wasted.

Phil's website:

http://www.roadandrace.com.au/

Jim