Ducati singles · 1967–1974
Ducati Mark 3 (250, 350, 450): history and buying advice
The mature bevel-drive single, with the stronger wide case.
History
The 250 Mark 3 succeeded the Diana Mark 3 and the Mach 1 in 1967. From 1968 it got the wide case, with stronger main and big-end bearings, wider rear mounting points and a larger sump. The frame got two rear loops for it. There was also a 350 and from 1969 a 450, the largest capacity the engine could take without a new design.
Much changed over the years: the ignition went from magneto to generator and coil, and from 1973 it was electronic. In 1973 Leopoldo Tartarini drew new styling with Smiths instruments. The last 1974 models got a Ceriani front fork and a Brembo front disc. In 1974 Ducati stopped making the bevel-drive singles.
Key data
| Engine | Single-cylinder four-stroke, overhead camshaft via bevel shaft |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 249 cc (74 × 57.8), 340 cc (76 × 75) or 436 cc (86 × 75) |
| Power | 250: 30 hp (claimed); 450: 27 hp at 7000 rpm |
| Gears | five |
| Top speed | 250: c. 145 km/h (claimed) |
| Weight | 250: 128 kg, 450: 130 kg dry |
| Production | c. 2,800 (250) and 1,800 (450) |
What to check when buying
- The earliest Mark 3s still have the narrow case. Narrow and wide do not interchange, nor do the frames.
- Check that the engine number matches the capacity on the papers. Many engines have been swapped, for example a 450 in a 250 frame.
- The 450 vibrates a lot. Check engine mounts, mudguards and brackets for cracks.
- Establish the type of ignition; the electronic one (from 1973) is the easiest to live with.
- Parts are reasonably available, partly because many parts are shared with the Scramblers.
- Listen to the bevel shaft and ask about the crankshaft.
SourcesWikipedia: Ducati 250 Mark 3 (English)Wikipedia: Ducati 450 Mark 3 (English)Wikipedia: Ducati singles (English)