Monday 30 March 2020

Something to do in retirement

...or just a money pit?


Post retirement has been tough. Physical issues, family health issues, depression and boredom.

In a fit of madness, I went searching for an old Ducati. Possibly searching for memories of my youth. Almost bought a Darmah, but it wasn't really worth the top dollar being asked. Suddenly, a bike I'd never considered appeared on Facebook, a 1975 Ducati 860GT. I thought they were ugly back in the day, but age, and possibly wisdom, mean it's now more interesting than ugly, and it has a butt load of character.

What's more, any old Ducati is likely to need money spent, and the GT was a shitload less expensive than the Darmah. Sure, the market says they aren't worth as much, but I buy for enjoyment, not investment.

Long story short, it's in my garage, running club rego (Ducati Owners Club of NSW). Starts easily (kick only), quiet engine, raucous exhaust (original Lafranconi not quite Conti raucous, but very nice). Faults so far are minor, and a prepurchase inspection prepared me for most.

Three main issues:


Fuel taps leaked, so additional inline taps are fitted. Sure it works, but looks awful, and turning four taps on and off is ridiculous.

It's been rewired at some stage, but not terribly well. For example only 3 x 30A fuses (should be more and max should be 15A), non original regulator, which suggests a possible alternator upgrade

Both rims are non-original, but are a common period replacement, aluminium alloy instead of chrome steel. Borrani lookalikes from Akront. The front rim has been repaired at some stage, so I'll get a replacement and respoke it.

Action:


As expected, the fuel taps were an easy fix. Drain the tank and fit new taps from Gowanlochs and some nice green fuel line. No leaks, and only two taps. While the tank was off, I also fitted two correct tank bumpers.

I looked at the wiring and shuddered. A job for another day.

The rim? It's waiting as well. It looks solid. I won't go to the standard chrome, and will get Borrani style again.

I also bought footpeg rubbers, as the originals are quite worn. Non-original, but identical. Still to fit.

Riding:


Not as powerful as my old bevel, but that baby had an SS motor, 40ml pumpers, and Contis, so that's to be expected. Handling and braking are good, in tune with the era.