DUCATI 680 TT F1 REPLICA
PROJECT CORNER
JAMES SHEPPERD’S DUCATI 680 TT F1 REPLICA
Welcome to our project-themed paradise… a place where readers like you take a few snaps, tell a few tales, and get to show us what they’ve been grafting away at in their garages. This month, we’re checking out James’s Ducati 680 special…
DIY TT rep, anyone?
Why this bike?
JS: The older I get, the more I appreciate vintage bikes. That being said, I have come to count on modern 17in wheels/tyres, decent suspension, and proper brakes. Seeing another TT F1 project featured in one of the last issues of Practical Sportsbikes (UK frame makers feature) lit the fire to build my own replica.
What is the end goal and why?
JS: The end goal is a unique and reliable street bike to enjoy on Sunday morning rides. At one time I envisioned the project as a track bike, but due to the decline of a lightweight or vintage class at the local track, I changed plans and added the necessary items – headlight, indicator, horn and so on. It’s not super-powerful at about 60hp, but the bike weighs about 280lb dry (oil, no fuel) using the bathroom scale method.