In 1964, Ducati unveiled a game-changing motorcycle that would shake the very foundations of the industry – the 1200 V4 Apollo. Born from a collaboration with Joe Berliner, Ducati’s American importer, this behemoth was designed to tackle the US police market and take on the mighty Harley-Davidson.
The brainchild of Fabio Taglioni, Ducati’s technical director, the 1200 V4 Apollo boasted an impressive 80hp at 6000rpm in its touring guise, with a top speed of nearly 100mph. But it was the performance version that truly set pulses racing, producing a blistering 100hp at 7000rpm and propelling riders to dizzying velocities.
Behind the scenes, Taglioni’s genius shone through in his decision to adopt a V4 configuration with overhead valves operated by a single camshaft, echoing the simplicity of big American V8 automobiles. This bold choice paid dividends on the road, where the 1200 V4 Apollo delivered an unparalleled riding experience – raw power, effortless acceleration, and unbridled excitement.
With its imposing presence and uncompromising performance, the Ducati 1200 V4 Apollo redefined what a motorcycle could be, cementing its place as one of the most iconic machines in history.
Key Specifications
Engine Type
Four stroke, 90oV-4, 2 valves
Engine Capacity
1252 cc / 76.4 cu in
Max Power
73.5 kw / 100 hp
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
All Specifications
Make & Model
Model
Ducati 1200 V4 Apollo
Year
1964
Engine
Engine Type
Four stroke, 90oV-4, 2 valves
Displacement
1252 cc / 76.4 cu in
Bore x Stroke
84.5 x56 mm
Compression Ratio
8.0:1
Max Horsepower
73.5 kw / 100 hp
Engine Management System
4 x SS1 32 mmcarburetors
Lubrication System
Wet sump
Cooling System
Air cooled
Performance
Top Speed
n/a
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
Transmission
Gearbox
5 Speed
Final Drive
Chain
Electrical & Electronics System
Battery
12V 32Ah
Starter
Electric and kick
Chassis & Suspension
Front Suspension
Telescopic forks
Rear Suspension
Swinging arm
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tire Size
5.00 -16, Ribbed
Rear Tire Size
5.00 -16, Block tread
Front Brakes
Drum
Rear Brakes
Drum
Dimension & Weights
Overall Width
750 mm / 29.5 in
Wheelbase
61 inches / 1550 mm
Ground Clearance
170 mm / 6.7 in
Features
1257 cc air-cooled V4 engine
90-degree crankshaft with roller bearing big ends
Horizontal split wet sump crankcase
Center main bearing support
Pushrods and rocker arms for valve actuation
Overhead valves operated by a single camshaft
84.5 mm bore
56 mm stroke
180-degree crankshaft design
Air-cooled engine design
Twin 24mm carburetors on touring version
Single camshaft mounted between cylinders
Heavy duty open cradle frame with central box section front downtube
Horizontally split wet sump crankcase
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*We strive to provide the most comprehensive and accurate specifications possible. However, certain details may not be available if the manufacturer did not disclose them or if the information is no longer publicly accessible. If you find any discrepancy with any data on this site, please feel free to let us know at contact@throttlecraze.com
