Two ultra-rare Ducatis set to headline Mecum Monterey auction

A historic 1972 Ducati 750 Imola Racer and an extraordinary original 1974 Ducati 750SS Green Frame will lead a fascinating selection of collector motorcycles crossing the block during Monterey Car Week.

Two remarkable Ducatis with direct links to one of the most important chapters in the Italian manufacturer’s history are set to go on display. mecum monterey 2026 auction.

The auction will take place from August 13-15 at the Del Monte Golf Course in Monterey, California, with two Ducatis scheduled to cross the block on Saturday, August 15.

Leading the pair is the 1972 Ducati 750 Imola Racer, one of only eight examples built and one of seven fielded by Ducati in the inaugural Imola 200-mile race.

That event became a defining moment in Ducati history when Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari achieved memorable first and second places for the factory.

According to respected Ducati historian Ian Falloon, the motorcycle headed to Monterey was one of two machines prepared for Smart’s 1972 Imola campaign and is believed to be the counterpart of the winning bike now preserved in the Ducati Museum in Bologna.

an extraordinary survivor

The Imola racer is claimed to retain an extraordinary amount of original factory material, including the bodywork, fairing, fuel tank, seat and tail section.

It is also said to be one of only three known examples that still has its original engine cases. According to the information provided for the auction, the machine has never been crashed or modified.

Fabio Taglioni and his team transformed Ducati’s production 750 GT into a serious Formula 750 racing machine for the Imola challenge.

The resulting racer combined Ducati’s L-twin engine and desmodromic valve system with lightweight competition bodywork, specialist engine components and a distinctive silver finish.

Mecum says the engine produced around 85bhp at 8,800rpm, while the motorcycle weighed around 390lb dry and was capable of over 170mph.

The racer’s fuel tank retains its original metallic silver finish and an unpainted vertical bar that allowed the team to see the remaining fuel level.

Further unusual details include an Italian military water bottle adapted for use as part of the engine’s crankcase breather system.

green frame connection

Joining the racers is a highly original 1974 Ducati 750SS, better known among enthusiasts as the Green Frame.

The road-going 750SS emerged directly from Ducati’s success at Imola. Only 401 were produced to meet homologation requirements, making surviving original examples the most desirable of all classic Ducatis.

The Monterey motorcycle is described as an unrestored, two-owner example displaying 10,841 kilometres.

Its 748cc L-twin engine is paired with a five-speed gearbox, while specifications include the distinctive green frame, silver and gold bodywork, triple disc brakes and spoke wheels.

Ian Falloon has also examined this motorcycle and considers it to be one of only about 10 examples surviving in such highly original, low-mileage condition worldwide.

The bike has reportedly undergone an extensive mechanical conservation program, including a comprehensive engine service and brake overhaul, while retaining its original paint and key components.

Documents from its first two owners and an Ian Falloon report covering its history and condition will be included with the sale.

you can See the full Mecum listing for the 1974 Ducati 750SS Green Frame here.

more than two ducati

While the Imola Racer and Green Frame provide a unique hook for Ducati devotees, they form part of a broader selection of collector motorcycles on display at Monterey.

Complete Motorcycle Auction Catalog It allows enthusiasts to browse other machines currently shipped, with photos, specifications, and background information provided in separate listings.

The motorcycle lot will join nearly 600 classic and collector cars during the three-day Monterey sale held as part of the broader Monterey Car Week.

Whether you’re looking for a serious addition to a collection, follow the market or simply enjoy the opportunity to inspect some rarely seen machinery, the online catalog is worth exploring.

how to bid

Mecum Auctions offers three ways to bid: In person, by phone, or online.

existing customers can Sign in To complete your bidder registration. New users can create one mymecum Profile, which provides access to bidder registration and other account features.

Potential buyers should study the individual lot descriptions, auction conditions and buyer’s premium before bidding. Mecum also notes that lot information may be amended prior to the sale and that descriptions presented on the auction block take priority over earlier descriptions.

For a more detailed look at the development, history and significance of both machines, read Mecum’s feature, Two Historic Motorcycles from Ducati’s Imola Legacy.