The Ducati 200 Elite is a testament to Fabio Taglioni’s innovative design philosophy, which first emerged with the groundbreaking 100 Gran Sport in 1954. This overhead-camshaft single was not only a racing sensation but also a versatile platform that could be scaled up or down to suit various applications.
As the Elite entered production in 1961, its engine capacity increased to 200cc, drawing from the 250cc model’s powerplant. The result was an impressive top speed of around 85mph, thanks to the added muscle of 18 horsepower at 7,500 rpm.
Riding a Ducati 200 Elite is a treat for purists, with its lightweight and nimble handling making it a joy to navigate twisty roads. The engine’s glorious sound as it reaches its camshaft peak is just one of the many reasons why this little Duke remains a treasured classic among motorcyclists today.
Key Specifications
Engine Type
Four stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, shaft and bevel gear driven, 2 valves per cylinder
Engine Capacity
203.8cc / 12.4 cu in
Max Power
13.1 kW 18 hp @ 7500 rpm
Fuel Tank Capacity
17 L / 4.5 US gal / 3.7 Imp gal
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
All Specifications
Make & Model
Model
Ducati 200 Elite
Year
1961 – 65
Engine
Engine Type
Four stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, shaft and bevel gear driven, 2 valves per cylinder
Displacement
203.8cc / 12.4 cu in
Bore x Stroke
67 x 57.8 mm
Compression Ratio
7.8:1
Max Horsepower
13.1 kW 18 hp @ 7500 rpm
Engine Management System
Dell’Orto UBF24BS carburetor
Performance
Top Speed
140 km/h / 87 mph
*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer
Transmission
Clutch
Multi wet plate
Gearbox
4 Speed
Primary Drive Ratio
2.520:1
Gear Ratios
1st 2.75 / 2nd 1.65 / 3rd 1.18 / 4th 0.97:1
Final Drive
Chain
Electrical & Electronics System
Battery
SAFA 3L3, 13.5Ah
Starter
Kick
Chassis & Suspension
Frame Type
Single cradle
Front Suspension
Hydraulic telescopic forks, Ducati 31.5 mm
Rear Suspension
Swingarm, dual Marzocchi shocks, 3-way adjustable
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tire Size
2.75 -18
Rear Tire Size
3.00-18 (GT: 2.75-18)
Front Brakes
180 mm Drum
Rear Brakes
160 mm Drum
Dimension & Weights
Overall Length
2000 mm / 78.7 in
Overall Width
580 mm / 22.8 in
Overall Height
965 mm / 38.0 in
Wheelbase
52.0 inches / 1320 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity
17 L / 4.5 US gal / 3.7 Imp gal
Dry Weight
111 kg / 244 lbs
Features
Overhead-camshaft single cylinder engine
Available in various capacities from 98cc to 450cc
175cc roadsters introduced for 1956 season
‘Silverstone’ sports version capable of over 80mph
Engine capacity increased to 204cc in 1959 for Elite and 200SS models
Lightweight design
Nimble handling
Sure-footed
Gem of an engine with glorious sound
Ducati 200 Elite introduced in 1959
Bored 175-cc motor to 204 cc capacity
Increased output of 18 horsepower at 7,500 rpm
Faster top speed of 87mph
Jelly mould tank
Clip-on bars
Dual mufflers
18″ wheels
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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
