Hi, I looking to purchase Ducati single to go with my Moto Guzzi 250-TS. Obviously cost is a big factor so apart from a 160 Monza Junior I probably looking a 175/200/250 Mototrans model ? Is there any significant difference between a 4 or 5 speed 250's? And which models should I avoid ? Any advice and guidance would be appreciated. As most books mainly cover the Bologna model. Thank you
You evidently are aware that Mototrans (Barcelona) singles are less sought after, hance cheaper, than Bologna built examples. Earlier narrow case singles are lighter than later wide case examples. When a fifth gear was squeezed into the narrow crankcases, it didn't leave much room for the kickstart mechanism which is thus fragile - expecially if the engine has also been hogged out to 350. I have a 160 narrow case and a 450 wide case. In my personal opinion, those are the best representatives of their types. Other folk will have their own opinions. 1975 onwards, only Spanish bikes continued. The first attempt at an electric start was notoriously hopeless. The second later different type of electric start was much better I am told.
All Spanish built singles are valve spring engines - no desmos. Bologna built wide case singles can be valve spring or desmo, but the desmo ones are very sought after and expensive. On a limited budget, it has to be a valve spring bike.
When you buy a 50 year old bike, availability of spares is an important issue. There are specialist suppliers who can provide almost anything for the commoner Bologna built singles. Spanish ones, not so easy.
