1988 Ducati 400 F3
Rare six-speed Japanese market 400 F3
Frame number: ZDM400R 401073
Engine number: DM400L1 400166
When Cagiva purchased Ducati in 1985 they initiated a significant change in direction. The bevel-drive twins were deemed too expensive to manufacture and were soon discontinued. As the existing Pantah-based models such as the 750 F1 were also considered too expensive to build, their days were also numbered. When the 750 Paso with a reversed rear cylinder head and automotive Weber carburettor was introduced in 1986 the writing was on the wall for the earlier belt-drive twins. The final 750 F1s were built in 1987 and the very last series was a production run of 300 400 F3s built for the Japanese market in 1988. For some enthusiasts the 750 F1 represented the end of an era for Ducati, and the last 400 F3 was the final remnant of this epoch.
Although a small number of 400 F3s was built in early 1987 for Japan, it was initially assumed this would be the final series. It was indicative of the influence of the Japanese distributor Murayama that he persuaded Ducati to build a further 300 400 F3s at the end of 1988, as 1989 models. These were of a higher specification than the earlier variety, and were styled as a mini-Santamonica with white and red paintwork and a dual seat. 150 were produced with a red fuel tank and 150 with a white fuel tank. The engine was as before but now featured a six-speed gearbox and Dell’Orto PHF 36 carburetors. Ignition was still Bosch and no oil cooler was fitted. Power was increased to 47 HP at 10,000 rpm. The 16 and 18-inch Oscam wheels and front brakes with 280mm fully floating discs and Brembo 08 calipers were as for 1986 and 1987. Later components included a rectangular reservoir brake master cylinder reservoir. The red-painted 38mm Marzocchi forks now had air caps, but the earlier 750 F1 front fender was still fitted. The frame is the second type 750 F1 with provision for rear footpegs and a dual seat. It was almost as if these final 400 F3s were being produced to use up surplus spare parts, but they remain a unique, and very desirable, model.
This Ducati 400 F3 is one of 300 final series 400 F3s produced for the Japanese market in December 1988 and 150 built with a red fuel tank. It still includes “Murayama” decals placed on the fairing sides by the Japanese distributor at the time. Apart from replacement aftermarket indicators it is presented in excellent, original condition. The odometer reads only 5,333 km.
Accompanying the sale is one key, Australian bill of sale from QLD seller where the bike had been registered by the previous owner. No other paperwork accompany the sale.
To view high resolution images of the motorcycles, please follow the below Dropbox link;
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/n5bcjb2nuoc16t4y3k5hs/h?dl=0&rlkey=exyqlbxilyvv4n3ue8jmppkbx
This motorcycle is sold unregistered.
