Ducati singles · 1952–1958
Ducati 65 T, TL and TS: history and buying advice
The small, economical four-stroke that followed the Cucciolo.
History
After the Cucciolo Ducati started building complete light motorcycles, first the 60 and then the 65. In 1952 the 65T and the more luxurious 65TL appeared, the same year as the bigger 98. In 1955 the sportier 65TS was added: about five kilos lighter, with a different tank, lower bars and a dual seat.
The little bike had a telescopic fork at the front and a swingarm at the rear, not yet a matter of course in this class. The 65 stayed in production until 1958 and was the last descendant of the Cucciolo line.
Key data
| Engine | Single-cylinder four-stroke, air-cooled |
|---|---|
| Bore × stroke | 44 × 43 mm, 65 cc |
| Compression | 8:1 |
| Power | 2.5 hp at 5600 rpm |
| Gears | three |
| Top speed | c. 70 km/h |
| Weight | 59 kg dry (T and TL), 54 kg (TS) |
What to check when buying
- Establish the version: T, TL or TS. You can recognise the TS by its different tank, lower bars and dual seat.
- Parts are scarce. Prefer a complete example to a project with lots missing.
- Check whether parts from other small Ducatis have been fitted; that often happened during repairs.
- Compare the frame and engine numbers with the papers.
- Check the tank and mudguards for rust and dents; good original examples are hard to find.
SourcesWikipedia: Ducati 65T (English)Wikipedia: Ducati Cucciolo (English)MCNews: the Ducati Cucciolo, part 2 (English)