A Piece of Ducati Racing History – Restoration Opportunity

2006 Ducati Paul Smart 1000 Limited Edition 

The Story Behind the Machine

To understand this motorcycle, one must first understand April 23, 1972 – the day that changed Ducati forever. At the Imola 200 race in Italy, a relatively unknown English rider named Paul Smart climbed aboard a factory-built 750cc desmodromic V-twin and, against all odds, seized victory. He didn't just win; he dominated, beating the world's best racers on multi-cylinder machines from MV Agusta and Kawasaki.

That victory marked the birth of the Ducati superbike dynasty. It transformed a small Bolognese manufacturer into a global icon of performance and style.

Fast forward to 2006. Ducati, under the creative direction of South African designer Pierre Terblanche, unveiled the Paul Smart 1000 Limited Edition – a faithful tribute to the legendary Imola winner. Only 2,000 examples were produced for the entire world. Each one was finished in the iconic silver flake paint over a Sea Green trellis frame, replicating the livery of Smart's original racer.

The PS1000LE is the crown jewel of Ducati's SportClassic series, often described as the most desirable of the retro-modern lineup. It was a one-year-only production, making genuine examples increasingly difficult to find.

The Bike

This example presents a unique opportunity for the right collector or enthusiast. While the motorcycle remains mechanically strong and retains its original character, it has sustained cosmetic damage to both wheels.

Condition Overview:

• Wheels: Both the front and rear 17" wire-spoke wheels have visible scuffs, scrapes, and dings. They remain structurally sound and hold air but require professional refurbishment or replacement for show-quality presentation.

• Bodywork: Perfect condition 

• Mechanicals: The 992cc L-twin engine runs strong. The Öhlins suspension, Brembo brakes, and transmission are reported to be in good working order.

Why This Matters for an Auction:
Factory-original PS1000LE wheels are unique to this model – they are not shared with the standard Sport1000 or GT1000. While replacements or aftermarket Galespeed or Marvic wheels can be fitted (as seen in other auction sales), the correct wire-spoked units with polished rims are specific to this limited edition. This is a repair that a dedicated owner or specialist can undertake, potentially at a significant discount relative to a perfect example.

This motorcycle, with its wheel damage, is priced well below those benchmarks – making it an ideal candidate for:

• A collector seeking an entry point into PS1000LE ownership

• A restorer looking to refurbish and flip

• An enthusiast who plans to customize (e.g., fit aftermarket wheels like Galespeed or Marvic)

Known Issues 

• Wheel Damage: Both wheels exhibit cosmetic damage – scuffs, scrapes, and minor dings. No structural cracks, but restoration is recommended for perfectionists.

  
  What's Included:

• Motorcycle as pictured

• Keys, owner's manual, tool kit

Auction Details

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Inspection date

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Why Bid?

This is not merely a motorcycle with damaged wheels. It is a low-entry opportunity to own one of the most significant limited-edition Ducatis of the 21st century – a machine that honors a man whose 1972 Imola victory defined Ducati's DNA.

Whether you choose to restore the original wheels, source a replacement set, or upgrade to aftermarket hoops, the math is simple: acquire this PS1000LE below market value, invest in the wheel repair, and you will still be ahead of the curve compared to a non-damaged example.

Don't let the cosmetic flaws scare you. This is the same Paul Smart that turns heads everywhere – it just needs a little love on its shoes.

Good luck and happy bidding!