1978 Ducati SD900 Darmah – $6,999 (Sold)

Ducati SD900 Darmah for sale

SELLER SAYS: Project restoration on early Darmah. This bike is a non-runner, but kicks over with compression. Electrical wiring harness and battery removed. Regulator, ignitors and coils are still in place along with switch gear. Frame and wheels require sand blasting. Small dent on left of tank. Bike nearly complete minus starter motor and assembly. Darmahs sell well for a good price on restoration. Contact Chrispy on 0407 xxx xxx Sold for full price (Huntingdale – Perth, Western Australia)

EDITOR TERLICK SAYS: Rare opportunity here for someone keen to get a bevel-engined Ducati into the shed without having to spend $20k or more. The Darmah was introduced in 1977 and is considered by many to mark a major – and critical – turning point in Ducati’s history. Pre-Darmah, Ducati’s big bikes were much admired but not everyone could actually live with them. Quality control was patchy, comfort was rare, electrics were occasional, and pillions were not welcome. With the Darmah, Ducati aimed to steer the company from enthusiasts-only to broad appeal: an electric start, pillion-capable seating, highway-friendly ergonomics and – what the heck – Japanese switchgear and clocks were among the features. But it was still very much a Ducati. The bevel engine, wonderful sound track, impeccable handling and sheer presence remained. They weren’t cheap but, for the first time, Ducati had a bike that was genuinely capable of attracting riders off Japanese bikes. This bike of Chrispy’s is an early one. It’s not a rider but, with almost all the parts still intact, it’s what you might call an advanced project. If it were me (and it might be me, if I can sell one of my other bikes quickly enough), I’d be pulling it completely to bits and putting it back together again, slowly and carefully. (Update: I wasn’t quick enough, but I tried!)