Performance Ducati Apollo

the ducati apollo @ ducati museum

initially putting out 100 bhp (75 kw) @ 7000 rpm, , exceed 120 mph (190 km/h). harley of time made 55 bhp. first test rider franco farne came first ride, , said “handles truck.” farne rode small racers. became evident specially made tyres not power of engine. tyre disintegrated @ speed on autostrada, , test rider rated survival “a miracle”. engine detuned give 80 bhp (60 kw). tyres continued disintegrate. engine brought down 65 bhp (48 kw), , survival rate of tyres became acceptable. late 1963. in comparison, in 1958 moto guzzi had used 20-inch rear tyre on grand prix 500 cc v8, , had worn rapidly 78 bhp (58 kw)

in march 1964 gold-painted prototype handed on in formal ceremony.

the reduction in power meant apollo outperformed british , bmw twins, restricted anticipated market police forces. berliner printing advertising, demonstrating prototype police chiefs, , genuinely preparing market apollo.

berliner specification sheet

this promotional flyer distributed berliner motor corporation, included front 3 quarter black , white view of gold bike. us$1,500 selling price us$10248 in 2008 dollars.

specifications of d/b v/4 - exclusive project of ducati – berliner

sport engine - 4 cylinder 1260 cc, bore x stroke 84.5 x 56 mm
carburetors 4 (ss 1 32 mm) - compression ratio 10:1 - approx. 100 hp @ 7000 rpm
(optional) carburetors 2 (ss 1 24 mm) - compression ratio 8:1 - approx. 80 hp @ 6000 rpm
gearbox built in unit engine
electric starter , kick starter
five (5) speed, positive shift
oil sump capacity 3.5 quarts
12 volt electrical system, 32 amp battery
alternator 200 watt, starter engine: 0.50 kw
wheelbase 1550 mm
interchangeable , detachable front , rear wheel
front tire: ribbed 5.00 x 16 inch rear tire: block tread 5.00 x 16 inch
large full hub front , rear brakes
rubber cushioned rear sprocket
roll on center stand , side stand
comfortable dual seat sturdy chrome plated hand rail.
width; engine 450 mm handlebar 750 mm ground clearance 170 mm
chain 5/8 x 3/8 primary chain duplex,
weight approx. 240 kg

the first production series manufactured in 1965 european , other foreign markets. shipments

scheduled united states planned second half of 1965. price in usa approximately $1500.