Introduction

Hi. 

 This blog is to document the restoration of a 1968 Ducati 250 motorcycle. I will post updates, anecdotes and whatever else I experience as the story unfolds. 

 Thanks for stopping by.

 Ben

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Ignition System Installation

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Back when I had the engine on the workbench, I installed the first portion of the Powerdyanmo Ignition system. I had previously installed this system on my other bike and have enjoyed excellent results, so I repeated the process here with photos: After removing the side cover the clutch and factory alternator are visible. I removed the clutch plates & basket along with the alternator in order to install the Powerdyamo magneto: After reinstalling the clutch the next step was to install the control box and ignition advance unit. As with the other bike, I chose to mount these together below the seat cowl: At this point, it's simply plug and play - no more adjusting points or worrying about having a fully-charged battery. The Powerdyamo also 'upgrades' the ignition system from 6-volt to 12-volt and provides a more reliable spark as well as better lighting. I will be taking my time with the wiring as to make sure everything is a clean installation.
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Wheels & Tires

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I got some new tires mounted on the original wheels, after soda blasting and polishing them as best I could. It would have been nice to get new rims or re-chrome the existing ones since the chrome is flaking away at certain points, but I'm trying to keep costs down so it isn't a priority at this point. With the hubs removed I inspected the brake shoes and the appeared to still have some life in them, so for now I will not replace them. What you see is after approximately one hour of polishing and removing small scratches.
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Ducati Monza History

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As mentioned earlier, the bike we will be restoring is a 1968 Ducati 250 Monza. Ducati produced the Monza model in 160 and 250cc variants from 1965 to 1969. They also offered a 350 model called the Sebring which looked very similar to the Monza. The Monza was Ducati's road-going, commuter-type bike, compared to the off-road Scrambler or the race-inspired Mach 1/ Mark 3. As such, it was a big seller and many examples can be had for decent prices in today's market. With proper maintenance and care these bikes can be especially enjoyable and rewarding to ride.
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