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Close page 1974 Ducati 450 Sport
1974 Ducati 450 Sport
Hopland, CA
Prior to visiting The Zen House, this bike had the helper springs removed for racing. Unfortunately, this modification requires constant valve shimming in order not to burn a valve or destroy the cam. For this restoration, valves were replaced and the original springs were acquired after an extensive search.

Designed by the famous Fabio Taglioni, the desmo engine dominates the lithe, athletic chassis in this very rare Ducati. With a top speed of well over 100 MPH the bevel driven Desmo engine had all closing and opening lobes mounted on the same shaft, similar to the arrangement used in the late fifties W196 Mercedes-Benz Formula 1 cars.