Built in an era when Ducati motorcycle production was in steep decline, the 1985 Ducati Mike Hailwood Replica “Mille” became the last bevel-drive twins to be produced by Ducati. Following Mike Hailwood’s triumphant comeback win at the 1978 Isle of Man TT, Ducati created the 900 MHR (Mike Hailwood Replica) originally for homologation purposes. Only 200 units were built in 1979, but demand was such that Ducati continued production through 1986. In the end approximately 7,100 units had been built, making this Ducati’s best-selling bevel-drive twin to date.
By 1985 (the last update to the series), the motor was bored out to 973cc and the model name got changed to MHR Mille as a result. Output numbers went up – 76 horsepower and 62 pound-feet of torque, but it also got Brembo brakes, Conti exhaust, an electric starter, different gauges, folding foot pegs with rubber inserts, adjustable Verlicchi clip-ons, and more. Between ’85 and ’86, approximately 1,100 MHR Mille’s were built, however the “Mille” was never exported to the United States.
The beautiful example that graces our MotoDoffo Gran Tinto label has an incredible story and holds the distinct honor of being the first bevel drive twin in the MotoDoffo Collection. Marcelo had always desired to have a bevel drive twin in his then budding collection, and through an acquaintance he received a tip on where he could find one in California. The chase was on. Several phone calls and inquiries later, Marcelo seized the opportunity to acquire this gem of a motorcycle that had been a display unit at a dealership in Beverly Hills for nearly 14 years! The odometer read a mere 1,400 kilometers. The deal was made, and Marcelo was the proud owner of this iconic motorcycle.
The acquisition of the Mille marked not only the first addition of a bevel drive twin, but it was also the inauguration of a new tradition for the MotoDoffo Collection. Marcelo invited a select group of moto enthusiasts over to a grand Argentine asado with the Hailwood being the guest of honor, and just like that Marcelo held his first unveiling party. The unveiling tradition continues to this day, with a small party to celebrate every time a significant motorcycle is added to the collection.
Although Marcelo recently sold the “Mille,” it didn’t come as an easy decision. Marcelo had this to say: “It was not an easy decision to part ways with the Mille. It is a very beautiful and significant motorcycle in Ducati’s history, however, there is a point in which the collection needs to evolve. It was very important for me that whoever purchased the Mille understood what they were purchasing. I made sure the Mille went to the right home where it will be enjoyed for years to come, the same as it did for me.”
We were honored to have housed this incredible motorcycle for nearly two decades and will continue to honor the memory of this iconic piece of Ducati history with this year’s release of the Gran Tinto. Salute!