The First Ducati – 1949 Ducati Cucciolo

In Italy, Small Displacement by Abhi1 Comment

The first motorcycle model ever released by the Italian firm, the Ducati Cucciolo was introduced in March 1946 out of the Borgo Panigale factory. One year later they were winning races with Glauco Zitelli at the helm, and a year after that the Cucciolo was being imported into the US.

Ducati Cucciolo - Tank

Cucciolo translates to “puppy”, and it actually started just as a motor to be attached to bicycles. It then became a complete frame and motor (the former assembled by Caproni), and the rest is history. The 48cc engine was a 4-stroke unit that was partnered with a 2 speed transmission. The bike weighed just under 100 pounds and was capable of hitting 40 miles per hour.

Ducati Cucciolo - Engine

This specific Ducati Cucciolo has been restored with new paint and handmade pinstriping and a rebuild of the engine, though the engine’s externals were left with the original patina. Since restoration, it’s had less than 10 miles of use.

Ducati Cucciolo - Left Side

Find this Ducati Cucciolo for sale in Alphen aan den Rijn, Netherlands with an opening bid of $2,000