Two of the original design features of the 900GTS that detracted from its classic looks were an uninspiring seat with rear cowl and a pair of triangular side panels that hid the bikes electrics. A shorter all leather seat and a set of alloy, scrambler style number plates took their place to create the timeless look of a classic racer.
The lighting was simplified with the removal of the bulky indicators but Nick chose to retain the original headlamp and tail light. Tomaselli clip on bars finish off the Cafe Racer styling and to add a splash of colour to the Ducati’s primarily polished alloy finish, blue fuel lines, gold painted discs and a gold chain were added.
The Ducati 900GTS first went into production in 1977. It’s air cooled, four stroke, 90° L twin motor produced 65bhp and had a top speed of around 116mph. Weight was kept down with the use of Ducati’s ingenious integrated engine/frame design which improved handling and more importantly, acceleration. In stock form Ducati’s 900GTS is certainly a good looking bike but Nick’s Cafe Racer interpretation is simply stunning.
