Ducati singles · 1957–1960
Ducati 175: history and buying advice
The first bevel-drive Ducati for ordinary roads.
History
In 1957 Ducati brought the engineering of the Gran Sport to the road with the 175 range. The frame was adapted for more comfort, but the engine kept the overhead camshaft with bevel drive. First came the T (touring) and the TS, then the Sport with a different tank and bars.
For the American market there was the 175 Americano, with high bars, crash bars, horns and a dual seat. The 175 became the basis for the 200 Elite and later the Scramblers.
Key data
| Engine | Single-cylinder four-stroke, overhead camshaft via bevel shaft |
|---|---|
| Bore × stroke | 62 × 57.8 mm, 174.5 cc |
| Power | c. 11 hp at 7500 rpm |
| Gears | four |
| Top speed | 110–115 km/h |
| Brakes | drums, 180 mm front, 160 mm rear |
| Weight | 102 to 118 kg, depending on version |
What to check when buying
- Identify the version (T, TS, Sport or Americano) by the tank, bars, seat and exhaust.
- It is an early narrow-case. Parts are scarcer than for the later 250s and do not always interchange.
- Listen to the bevel shaft and bevel gears: whine or rattle points to wear or wrong shimming.
- Ask about the crankshaft. A knocking crank means a bottom-end rebuild.
- Check the 6V electrics and lighting.
- Compare the frame and engine numbers with the papers.
SourcesMotorcycle Specs: Ducati 175 Americano (English)Museo Nicolis: Ducati Sport 175Wikipedia: Ducati singles (English)