RM Auctions to offer ex-works Ducatis at Monaco event

RM Auctions took a break from its Arizona dealings to drop a release about its upcoming Monaco event featuring 100 classic and rare Ducati motorcycles.

The Saltarelli Collection will be on sale at the Grimaldi Forum Monaco, May 10-12, in Monte Carlo. Alongside the Saltarelli Collection, Ducati will offer a selection of classic motorcycles from its factory and museum. All of the bikes will be offered without reserve.

Carlo Saltarelli was a Ducati test rider, racer and dealer who worked with the Italian company from 1965 to 1980. He bought his first bike at age 16 and began working for a dealer at the same time. The company quickly discovered that he had an aptitude for mechanics and racing.

In 1971, he bought an orange Ducati 750S, and the next year he began his racing career. Later the company picked him up for testing its road bikes and finally its race bikes. In 1974, he established Team Saltarelli.

Significant bikes in the collection include a 1970 Ex-Works Ducati 450 Desmo Corsa, which is a featured bike at the museum and in the Ducati book. A 1974 Ducati 750SS, Race Number 1 will cross the block, along with a 1992 Ex-Works Ducati 888 SBK ridden by Giancarlo Falappa. Saltarelli's own race-winning 1974 750SS is also for sale.

"The ability to announce the presence of the Ducati Factory at the sale with the inclusion of some wonderful ex-works race bikes makes the Monaco auction a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Ducati collectors and enthusiasts," said Max Girardo, managing director at RM Europe. "We are thrilled to have this opportunity to work with the Ducati Factory as we continue to align ourselves with the world's leading brands."

By Jake Lingeman