The 1959 Ducati 175cc F3 Factory Racer was first offered as a 125 and 175, and from 1960, a 250 The frame was low and light with steel or aluminum Marzocchi fork legs, and used a short swing arm. Although the F3s were genuine factory racers they suffered through being too expensive and were held back by the 4-speed gearbox. Amadoro brakes were typically installed, usually with air scoops, both front and rear, and laced onto 18in rims. The motor was a twin-cam bialbero bevel drive, 4-stroke single using sand cast crankcases and a 4-speed gearbox with straight cut gears and producing 16 horsepower at 9000 rpm. In the USA early 1959 a factory 175 won the 250cc class at Daytona.
Production of F3s was very small, perhaps less than 100, with only as few as a dozen 175s and genuine F3 175 is extremely rare today.
Background
- Manufacturer: Ducati
- Year: 1959
- Model: 175cc F3 (Formula 3)
Specifications
- Engine: The Ducati 175cc F3 is powered by a 174.5cc (0.175L) single-cylinder, four-stroke engine. This engine configuration was designed for high performance, producing around 14-18 horsepower, depending on the tuning and setup.
- Transmission: The motorcycle features a four-speed manual transmission, allowing for precise gear changes suitable for racing conditions.
- Chassis: The F3 is built on a lightweight tubular steel frame designed to optimize handling and stability at high speeds.
- Suspension: The front suspension consists of telescopic forks, while the rear uses a swingarm with twin shock absorbers. This setup provides a balance of ride comfort and handling performance, particularly important for racing.
- Brakes: The motorcycle is equipped with drum brakes both at the front and rear, which were standard for racing motorcycles of the period.
Design and Features
- Body Style: The Ducati 175cc F3 features a sleek and aerodynamic design, reflecting its racing intentions. The bike has a minimalist approach with a streamlined fuel tank, low handlebars, and a single seat.
- Design Elements: The design includes elements such as a polished aluminum fuel tank, racing number plates, and minimalistic bodywork to reduce weight and improve performance.
- Instrumentation: The F3 includes basic instrumentation, typically limited to a tachometer, to keep the rider informed of engine performance during races.
Performance
- Speed: The F3 is capable of reaching speeds of around 80-90 mph (130-145 km/h), making it competitive in its class during the late 1950s.
- Acceleration: The bike’s single-cylinder engine provides brisk acceleration, suitable for the short, intense bursts required in racing.
- Handling: The F3 offers excellent handling characteristics, with its lightweight frame and advanced suspension ensuring stability and agility on the track.
Historical Significance
- Racing Heritage: The 175cc F3 was developed for Formula 3 racing, a category that focused on lightweight and lower-displacement motorcycles. Ducati's success in this category helped establish the brand's reputation for high-performance racing motorcycles.
- Technological Innovation: The F3 featured several technological advancements for its time, including its overhead camshaft engine design, which contributed to its high-revving performance and reliability.
- Cultural Impact: The F3 played a role in Ducati's emergence as a prominent manufacturer of racing motorcycles, influencing the design and development of future models.
Legacy
- Collector's Item: Today, the 1959 Ducati 175cc F3 is a highly sought-after collectible among vintage motorcycle enthusiasts. Its rarity, racing pedigree, and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any collection.
- Cultural Appreciation: The F3 is appreciated for its role in Ducati's racing history and its contribution to the development of lightweight, high-performance motorcycles.
- Enduring Appeal: The bike’s combination of classic Italian design, racing heritage, and engineering excellence ensures its continued interest among collectors and motorcycle aficionados.
You may purchase a print of the 1959 175CC Ducati F3 Factory Racer in our online gallery.
