Just after some thoughts on what colour to do the frame. Personally I think the standard bronze colour looks a bit naff I don't want to upset any purists out there but I do like them in red or a brighter gloss gold or even black. Any thoughts please?
I've had frames done in Red and Satin Black by powdercoating. Both look good and I am happy with them, but I am not a purist. However If I were to sell my bikes then I would rebuild them to standard as I have kept all the original parts for all three of my bikes. If you go the powdercoating route for Red there is no true RAL colour that will match the Ducati Red but it is close, it would therefore have to be wet sprayed or a special powder mixed up to match which is very expensive. I have just had an LC frame done in Gloss Black and this is way too glossy for my liking for a Ducati but fine for the LC. Other options are 70% gloss on Powdercoating which these people can do. Motorcycles | Maldon Shotblasting and Powder Coating My personal preference is for a Red frame and this does work quite well for me.
Simon, if you are selling it or intend to retain some of its resale value the OEM colours are essential, particularly on the classic bikes as they get older and the purchasers become more selective. Unmolested bikes are and will be ,worth much more and the value will increase faster too. If you are keeping it paint it whatever colour floats your boat. FWIW I also don't like the original bronze and the post 2000 dark silver looks so much better than red or black, don't get me started on rim tape.....on a Ducati!!!! Anyhow its your bike and your choice
Bronze / Gold all the way for me . Old school 748, 916, 996 . When the 1098 came out , considered buying one & av'in the frame done in gold . Landed when the 1098 S Tricolore arrived ...
I'm a bit period correct on bike colour/graphics. A xerox 916 shape for example, imho is all wrong. For me a red frame on a 916 is a bit similar as ducati didnt start using red frames on superbikes until the 04 999R.
Interesting topic with so much variation. I think if it's one for keeping do it the colour which looks the best to you. As far as originality goes and keeping value I can only say my low mileage 998 is pretty much original and cheapest out there has had no interest so go with what looks good.
