Ducati 450 Mark 3D (1969 – 70)

The Ducati 450 Mark 3D, born from the innovative mind of Ing. Fablio Taglioni, combines the legendary desmodromic system with a sleek and agile chassis.

This four-stroke, single-cylinder powerhouse boasts a 436cc engine, capable of sustained high rpm due to its short stroke design. The bevel gear-driven SOHC configuration, inspired by the Manx Norton, demands precision engineering and meticulous maintenance from the owner.

With handling that’s been finely tuned by Ducati development rider Franco Farne, this bike is a joy to ride. Its legendary desmo engine dominates the chassis, delivering an exhilarating experience for any motorcyclist with a taste for adventure.

The result is a motorcycle that’s as much a work of art as it is a machine, its imperfections only adding to its raw, unbridled character.

Key Specifications

Engine Type	Four stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, bevel gear driven
Engine Capacity	435.7 cc / 26.6 cu in
Max Power	18.4 kw / 25 hp
Fuel Tank Capacity	3.4 US gallons / 13.0 L
Seat Height	28.9 inches / 735 mm

*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer

All Specifications

Make & Model

Model	Ducati 450 Mark 3D
Year	1969 – 70

Engine

Engine Type	Four stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, bevel gear driven
Displacement	435.7 cc / 26.6 cu in
Bore x Stroke	86 x 75 mm
Compression Ratio	9.3:1
Max Horsepower	18.4 kw / 25 hp
Engine Management System	Dell’Orto VHB 29 AD
Cooling System	Air cooled

Performance

Top Speed

n/a

*n/a – information not provided by manufacturer

Transmission

Clutch	Wet, multiplate
Gearbox	5 Speed
Primary Drive Ratio	2.111:1 (27/57)
Gear Ratios	1st 2.46 / 2nd 1.73 / 3rd 1.35 / 4th 1.10 / 5th 0.97:1
Final Drive	Chain

Electrical & Electronics System

Battery	SAFA 3L3, 13.5 Ah
Starter	Kick

Chassis & Suspension

Front Suspension	35 mm Marzocchi telescopic fork
Rear Suspension	Swingarm, dual Marzocchi shocks, 3-way adjustable

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size	2.75-18
Rear Tire Size	3.00-18
Front Brakes	Drum, 180 mm
Rear Brakes	Drum, 160 mm

Dimension & Weights

Overall Length	2000 mm / 78.7 in
Overall Width	600 mm / 23.6 in
Overall Height	940 mm / 37.0 in
Seat Height	28.9 inches / 735 mm
Wheelbase	53.5 inches / 1360 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity	3.4 US gallons / 13.0 L
Dry Weight	130 kg / 286 lbs

Features

Four stroke engine
Single cylinder engine
SOHC design
Bevel gear driven
436cc displacement
Positive valve opening and closing system (desmodromic)
Two camshafts per cylinder
High-revving capability up to 14,000 rpm
Short stroke design
Bevel drive system for camshaft operation
Accurate engineering required for bevel gear assembly
Oil changes require meticulous attention
Mass-produced bevel gear engine capability
Established reputation for handling and steering
Shoddy paintwork and poor chrome finish
Poor electrical systems compared to Japanese rivals
Kickstart on the left-hand side of the engine
Fragile big-end in earlier models, but improved with 450

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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