Engineering:Ducati Mach 1

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1965 Mach 1 (Concept version)
Ducati 250 Mach1 1964.jpg
1964 250 Mach 1
ManufacturerDucati Meccanica
Production1964-1966 Production by year 296(1964):66(1964 USA):308(1965):30(1965 USA):98(1966):40(1966 USA).
PredecessorDucati Diana
SuccessorDucati 250 Mark 3
ClassStandard
Engine248.6 cc (15.17 cu in) 4-stroke air-cooled bevel drive SOHC single-cylinder, contact breaker battery ignition with a single Dell'Orto SSI29D carburetor.
Bore / stroke74 mm × 57.8 mm (2.91 in × 2.28 in)
Compression ratio10:1
Power27.6 hp (20.6 kW) @ 8500 rpm
Transmission5 speed, wet clutch type.
Frame typeSingle, open cradle frame in tubular steel
SuspensionFront: Telescopic forks, Rear: Swinging arm rear suspension with twin, Marzocchi's 3-way adjustable shocks.
BrakesFront: 180 mm (7.1 in) drum type, Rear: 160 mm (6.3 in) drum type
TiresFront: 2.50 x 18”; Rear: 2.75 x 18”
Wheelbase1350 mm (53.15")
DimensionsL: 2000 mm (78.75")
W: 590 mm (23.25")
Seat height760 mm (29.9")
Weight116 kg (255.2 lbs) (dry)

The Ducati Mach 1 was a 250 cc single-cylinder engine motorcycle, the fastest 250 road bikes at the time. It was capable of just over 100 mph (160 km/h) in full road going trim (lights and silencer). Many were converted for racing use, and in the hands of Alastair Michael Rogers (AKA Mike Rogers) it gave Ducati a TT win when he won the 250 cc production TT. The regulations for the production TT were strict, and Mike Rogers averaged 134.84 km/h on his almost production condition Mach 1 with a fairing and painted green. Mike Rogers was blind in his left eye as a result of a childhood accident, but his efforts and the consistent performance of his Mach 1 enabled him to win. Nowadays, Ducati Mach 1 is one of the most sought after machines among enthusiasts of older bikes. The engine number was DM250M1 00001-01950 and the DM250M1 engine was also used in some Ducati Mark 3s. A total of 838 Ducati Mach 1s were produced, but not many are still in existence as they were also used for racing.

References

External links

  • Mach 1 at Ducati.com Heritage (archived)
  • [1] Mike Rogers profile on IoM TT Database