DUCATI 2-VALVE V-TWINS: THE COMPLETE STORY.

Marlborough: Crowood, 2000. 176 pp, large 8vo (9 15/16" H). Profusely illustrated in b&w and colour. "The first Ducati V-twin, the prototype 750 GT, appeared in the summer of 1970. Since then the type has carved itself a special place in motorcycle history, on both the road and track. (A)lthough majoring on models built from 1985 onwards, (this book) effectively charts the rise of the famous 90-degree V-twin from its earliest days to its current cult status. The original engine featured bevel-driven overhead camshafts, with or without the marque's legendary Desmo valve operation. Currently all Ducati V-twins employ both belt-driven overhead cams (pioneered by the Pantah series introduced at the end of the 1970s) and Desmo valve gear. The 2-valve family, which includes such well-known models as the F1/F3, Paso, Monster, Super Sport and ST2, is very much the affordable face of Ducati. Here, top-selling author and Italian bike specialist Mick Walker charts the full story of these charismatic machines, including their design and development. Besides the technical detail, Mick Walker also introduces the personalities involved in the evolution of the Ducati 2-valve V-twin story, men such as Massimo Bordi, Pierre Terblanche, Fabio Taglioni, Paul Smart and Tony Rutter, to name but a few." Very light wrinkling at bottom of spine. Dust jacket has light wrinkling at top/bottom of spine, minor edge wear, very light rubbing. . First Edition. Hard Cover. Near Fine/Very Good.