In 1968, Ducati released its first Desmo engine for sale to the general public. Previously, the desmo design had been restricted to factory race engines.
The 1968 model was the game-changer because it introduced the Desmodromic valve system to a mass-production motorcycle. This particular bike is the higher performance version of the Mark 3 offered, the Mark3D, that was fitted with a different head that used desmodromic valves (a system where the valves are positively closed by extra lobes on the cam and levers rather than by a more conventional springs).
The head was derived from that used on the 350 SCD racers. Although, using a desmo system, lightweight hairspring valve springs were retained. The rest of the engine was the same as the non-desmo Mark 3, as were the cycle parts. The 3D produced 34 bhp (25 kW) and had a top speed of 170 km/h.
This 1968 Ducati 350 Mark 3D (Desmo) (VIN 06884) featured a red frame, a red and chrome gas tank with twin-filler caps, chrome fenders, Radaelli steel rims, a high-lift cam and a Veglia tachometer.
This bike was purchased in Delaware by re-known motorcycle specialist Michael Thomas Gontesky of Virginia. The previous owner originally purchased it from a Norton/Ducati shop in Wyoming. Gontesky restored it in 2013 to OEM specs including engine overhaul. He meticulously paid attention to every detail including the correct code for the OEM red paint (PPG Acrylic Urethane) thus we have the formula.
The bike has not been started in approximately 3 years, the battery is old. It comes with a clean Florida title.
This a very important piece of Ducati history, all original and the motor has less than 10 Hrs since restoration.