Grandpa's bike

[STINEY]

Just wanted to drop a line and say hello to everyone here.

I have a '65 250 that was my Grandpa's. He actually used to use it to herd sheep believe it or not. I've had it running for a couple of very short rides, would like to learn as much as I can about it.

I used to play with this bike when I literally had to stand on tiptoe just to see the speedometer back in the mid-70's. It had been parked for several years at that time already. About 1993 I dug it out and got it running, much to Grandpa's surprise. Shortly afterwards he sold it to me, and I have stored it ever since. It is remarkably intact, and even the paperwork is all in order.

I've ridden liter-bikes for all that time, but lately the Ducati has been calling to me. I want to do it justice - would like it road-worthy but I also do not want to inadvertently violate its originality.

[double diamond]

Your Monza is remarkably original. Some unfortunate rust but that’s typical. Also, the tank and tool box decals seem to have gone missing. Are the silver flashes on the sides of the tank chrome or silver paint? These would originally have been chrome. Is the foil tag identifying the model still in place on the steering head of the frame? Well worth preserving as is. Matt

[Nick]

Lucky you! What a great bike, and what patina! Maybe just re-chrome the kickstarter and few other small bits but leave the paint as is. Hard call on the rims--paint, powdercoat, re-chrome, or new/used alloy rims.... Perhaps some used alloy rims and then new spokes in either cad or stainless?? That would retain the current look.

Please keep us updated.

[STINEY]

Thanks. The silver tank flashes were chrome, but back in '93 the chrome was nearly nonexistent from rust. It all came off just rubbing with fingers. So we painted the flash back on with silver paint, and the handlebars also. It was an economical way for a 19 year old to enjoy it.

Unfortunately the foil tag was missing by then already. Maybe an angry sheep had its vengeance?

I'm trying to decide on the rims. I have a painter buddy.....thinking of going that way. I have a hard time with the thought of throwing a bunch of new non-original parts on it, after all it has made it this long with all its bits intact. Heck, even the front tire is seems to be original......not sure on the rear. The pattern is different and it is not cracked as badly.

Actually the rubber footrest pieces that have "DUCATI" molded into them are the most bothersome at the moment. They are deteriorated badly. Does anyone have a source for new ones? I've searched to no avail.

[johnavico]

The footpeg rubbers are available here:

http://www.ducativintagestore.eu/gomme_ ... tti_175200

John

[STINEY]

Thank you very much. Definitely going to order a pair of those.

I'm looking through old photographs trying to see if I can find pictures of the original decals. I remember there was one on the fender, on the toolboxes and on the tank, and maybe somewhere else. Would like to get replacements of the correct decals too.

[double diamond]

Classic Transfers has the decals you need: www.classictransfers.co.uk. You can get the footpeg rubbers in the States from www.guzzino.com. Paul has a few other bits you might be interested in. Matt

[SP3]

Great bike and story Stiney. I'd love to come see it some time. When it's warmer!

[STINEY]

Canton isn't very far.....let me know when you are in the area and we'll get together.

[SP3]

No, not far at all. About an hour 15 depending. And, it'll give me an excuse to hit JAFB (beer) in Wooster and Phoenix Brewing in Mansfield on the way or back. or both.