Specifications: 350 cc SOHC Desmo V-twin, five speeds.

In the late 1970s, Ducati designer Fabio Taglioni found himself back in favour and produced another ground-breaking design. It was the belt-drive camshaft 500-cc V-twin Desmo Pantah, whose racing sibling, the TT2, would hand Ducati four Formula 2 world championships between 1981-84. Taglioni’s design was significantly smaller and quieter than the outgoing bevel-drive twins, as well as cheaper to build. When the engine was boosted to 600 cc in 1981’s 600SL, the model gained a better fairing and a hydraulic clutch. Electronics were by Nippon Denso, brakes were by Brembo, and top speed was increased slightly from the 500SL, at around 124 mph. The bike on offer is one of these rare 350-cc machines, offered in good original condition and with a two-into-one exhaust. The red and yellow paint is particularly distinctive. Pantahs always attract attention, none more so than this one.