Round Three of the Ducati Superbike Concorso was the toughest one so far, at least the judges thought so. Because of the high concentration of truly great "vintage" Ducatis in this area of the country round three was the shootout of the "Originals". Add to that the stunning modified entry's and it was the perfect recipe for some really hard decisions. Join me for a tour....
Photos and captions by Vicki Smith
If you look closely you can see it has 214 miles on it.
This is Peter's as well - it's a 1979 Mike Hailwood replica #30, a one piece fairing "certificate bike"
That's the odometer on Peter's 1985 750 F1, the ultimate statement of dedication. This bike has never had gas in the tank. Or as Peter say's "it's still got the Italian air in the tires!"
That's Fred Jennings cleaning up his perfect and compeletey original 1999 748. Fred's a "Super Volunteer" on several AMA weekends a year and the sort of person that you just feel lucky to know.
Bob Cook's 2002 998R just made you want to ride it. Here's what the description card said:
463/700. Purchased new in 2002, this rare Ducati Superbike has received performance upgrades every year, transforming it into one of the finest examples of a modified 998R in the United States. Bruce Meyers (BCM) performed his "3 P magic" (pistons, ports, pipes) on the engine, which now produces over 150 rwhp and over 80 ft/lbs of torque. 60mm carbon fiber Termignoni's, assisted by a Corse carbon fiber crankcase breather box, produce a booming "Poom! Poom! Poom!" when this bike hits the track. A complete Corse magnesium swingarm (small axle) graces the rear, mated to an upgraded Ohlins shock. The swingarm, coupled with the steeper steering angle and 27mm offset triple clamps, provides superb handling at the track, ably assisted by the BST carbon fiber wheels. SBK/MotoGP spec Brembo pinless 2 pad radial monoblocks haul the 998R down from terminal velocity. A Kevlar fuel tank, along with numerous other lightweight upgrades, keeps the fully wet weight of this Superbike under 400 lbs. Bottom line: This is the finest, quickest, best handling motorcycle that I have ever ridden. Thank you, Massimo Tamburini!
Here's something you don't see every day (unless you are judging the Superbike Concorso!) This is Lou Saif's fanatically restored 1983 TT1. This bike was also invited to the 2005 VMD "Passion In Motion" historical display. It was the first of the announced "Judges Pick Wildcards" and transfers right to the finals so you'll see this one at Laguna in September. (John Bragg's 1098 was invited to transfer as well)