1974 Ducati 750 GT Motorcycle

Description

Designed by Fabio Taglioni, the mighty Ducati 750 GT series was introduced to the market for the 1971 model year, the first model showcasing the now-famous 90-degree V-twin engine configuration.  The 748cc twin employed a bevel-driven single overhead camshaft with two valves per cylinder and had a compression ratio of 8.5:1, resulting in 57 horsepower at 7700 rpm.  The five forward gears were selected via a wet clutch, while braking benefited from the fitment of a Lockheed front disc and the tubular steel frame employed Marzocchi front and rear forks.  The 750 GT underwent constant development, with a Ceriani front fork offered from 1974 onwards, along with an electric start, Veglia instruments in place of the original Smiths and twin Dell’Orto carburettors replaced the Amals in 1973.  More changes took place in 1974, including Lafranconi mufflers, new camshafts, valves and rockers, along with a Ceriani front fork and Brembo disc brake, while the Borrani alloy wheel rims gave way to chrome-plated Radaellis.  The original ‘round-case’ 750 GT remained in production until the end of 1974, proving costly to build and it struggled to meet US regulations.  In all some 4,133 were made, of which an estimated 823 were sold to Australia.  Today these bikes are seen as significant models in Ducati's history, employing the V-twin and desmodromic valve actuation that made the marque's legendary reputation.  Superbly proportioned, the 750 GT also has an undoubted charisma that spans the gap between classic and modern styling.