Beschreibung:

The race-styled F1 first appeared in 1985. Last design by the legendary Dr. T, the Taglioni-influenced 750 holds a special place in Ducati history, considered by many enthusiasts to be the last of the "real" Ducatis, pre Cagiva's takeover of the bankrupt company. Seen in prototype form in endurance races in 1983, the F1's 750cc engine was the latest in a long line of stretches applied to the original 500cc "belt drive" desmo unit that had first appeared in the Pantah in 1979. An markedly oversquare unit of 88 x 61.5mm bore/stroke, the F1's engine produced around 60 hp and functioned as a stressed element within the frame, the swingarm pivoting in the rear of the gearbox. Clearly visible above the deliberately cutaway fairing sides, the frame attracted almost as much attention as the engine: a trellis of short, straight tubes, a type that has formed the basis of almost every Ducati since, including the original Desmosedici MotoGP racer. In the fashion of the day, the F1 came with a 16-inch front wheel, while braking power was provided by state-of-the-art triple Brembos. In a retrospective ride review, JustBikes warned that the F1 makes demands, but that the rewards of ownership are great: "Being a race replica, the 750 F1 is a 'no compromise' bike. The overall dimensions are quite small, which taller riders may struggle to get comfortable with. The seating position is wrist heavy, wheelbase short and suspension firm. Steering is heavy, too, due to the small front wheel and hydraulic steering damper. It can hoist its front wheel easily on acceleration, and almost lift the rear under heavy braking. However, those who have got comfortable with the characteristics of the 750 F1 swear by it. On a straight – or twisty – bit of smooth tarmac, the 750 F1 offers the sort of performance to surprise a lot of newer sportbikes. It's also a collectable piece of Ducati history."