Ducati singles · 1969–1974
Ducati 450 Scrambler: history and buying advice
The biggest Scrambler, sold in America as the Jupiter.
History
Berliner wanted a bigger Scrambler to compete with the BSA Victor. In 1969 the 450 arrived with the 436 cc engine, the largest size the bevel-drive single could be enlarged to. In America it was called the Jupiter, in Europe the 450 SCR. The frame was a strengthened version of that of the smaller Scramblers, with reinforcing plates along the top tube.
It was used for flat track, enduro and motocross. In 1973 it got electronic ignition, a twin-leading-shoe front brake and the lights and instruments of the Mark 3. After production ended in 1974 the last examples were still being sold until early 1976, partly as the ‘Mark 4’. About 11,000 were built.
Key data
| Engine | Single-cylinder four-stroke, overhead camshaft via bevel shaft |
|---|---|
| Bore × stroke | 86 × 75 mm, 436 cc |
| Compression | 9,3:1 |
| Power | 27 hp at 7000 rpm (claimed) |
| Gears | five |
| Top speed | c. 135 km/h |
| Weight | 140 kg dry |
| Production | c. 11,000 |
What to check when buying
- The 450 vibrates a lot. Check the frame, engine mounts and brackets for cracks.
- Many examples were used off-road. Look for welding on the frame and the reinforcing plates.
- Spanish MotoTrans examples were also built under licence. Check origin and numbers.
- Models from 1973 have electronic ignition and the better front brake.
- Compare the frame and engine numbers with the papers.
SourcesWikipedia: Ducati 450 Scrambler (English)Motocross Action: 1970 Ducati Jupiter 450 (English)