Ducati 450 Desmo, mk 3D road bike, 1970. Great restoration project.

 I acquired this bike several years ago and am liquidating my toys due to an upcoming sailing voyage. This is the rare. coffin tank model and the first 450 Desmo road bike.   It is a good restoration candidate for several reason.   The tank and side boxes are in great shape inside and out.   Engine kicks over smoothly and shifts (shift box is stiff and needs re-lube).   I checked the valve clearance and removed the head to show the condition.   I hooked up a battery and it even has spark!  Everything looks good.   I put 2000 miles in the listing as mileage is required.   The speedo is missing but the tires are original and show little wear.   Cylinder bore indicates low mileage.   The seat has the original covering but has some paint spatters on it.   I checked valve clearance and opening clearance is . 004 to . 006.   Closers seem loose at around . 006.   These should be set as close to . 001 as possible.   It is not necessary to have them tighter for good running.   I don't know what the factory set them at.   Exhaust threads are perfect. Title is clean. Wisconsin title.   I'll ship anywhere but all shipping is at buyer's expense.   I will not charge for transportation to shipping station.   I will crate free if I can get a crate from a dealer or use a very reasonable crating company.   I have shipped two Ducatis to Australia with no problems. The negatives of this bike are some missing parts and some "mods" to the frame top tube.   The 450 has a unique bracing on the top tube and down the vertical tube.   Someone cut the bracing off the front part of the top tube as shown in the pictures.   This does not show with the tank in place but some flat stock could be welded in this area with no problems.   Parts missing are:  speedo. side stand arm. and muffler.   The gears are missing from the tach drive.   Handlebars are incorrect but generic ones work perfectly.   Headlight shell has dents and will need work and re-chroming. Ask any questions.   I'm an enthusiast and want to see this bike go to someone who will restore her and ride!

On Jan-31-15 at 08:32:58 PST. seller added the following information:

 Addendum:Added photos of Desmo mechanism to prove this is a Desmo.   Also added photos of serial number and model number on engine cases.   Note:  Original key is included. turns in lock.

On Jan-31-15 at 08:41:55 PST. seller added the following information:

 Mini Quiz!  Let's make this fun.   How many Alfa Romeos are visible in these photos?  What models?  I will send a new Ducati (capacitor) to the first correct response.   Yes. that includes international shipping!

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