Ducati PaulSmart 1000 LE
The Ducati PaulSmart 1000 LE honoured Paul Smart’s victory at the 1972 Imola 200-mile race through a modern SportClassic motorcycle. Ducati announced production would begin in September 2005, with the model generally associated with the 2006 range. The factory release specified 2,000, creating a defined heritage edition rather than a numbered racing replica.
The Ducati PaulSmart 1000 LE honoured Paul Smart’s victory at the 1972 Imola 200-mile race through a modern SportClassic motorcycle. Ducati announced production would begin in September 2005, with the model generally associated with the 2006 range. The factory release specified 2,000, creating a defined heritage edition rather than a numbered racing replica.
Edition at a glance
| Edition / programme figure | 2000 — manufacturer announced limited run; not individually numbered |
|---|---|
| Original market scope | Worldwide |
| Reference year | 2005 (see production chronology) |
| Model years documented here | 2006 |
| Base model / platform | SportClassic 1000 |
| Engine / propulsion | Air-cooled twin |
Design and engineering
Silver bodywork and a sea-green frame connect the design to Ducati’s early racing heritage. The SportClassic foundation interprets that appearance through a modern road motorcycle rather than reproducing the original 750 racer. Its air-cooled twin and period-inspired riding layout belong to this later design; the tribute name should not be used to imply original 1970s mechanical specification.
Production and edition scope
The announced 2,000-bike series is limited but not individually edition-numbered. A missing numbered plaque is therefore not, by itself, evidence against authenticity. Production beginning in 2005 and later model or registration dates describe the same edition. Other SportClassic models and motorcycles modified with PaulSmart-style bodywork remain outside this figure.
Identifying an authentic example
Establish the factory model through chassis records, original invoice and certificate of conformity where available. Compare the frame finish, fairing, seat and supplied equipment against the correct parts documentation. Record replacement components and owner modifications transparently. Authentication should rely on the complete motorcycle and its documents rather than expecting a serial plaque the edition did not use.
Collector significance
The PaulSmart connects Ducati’s modern heritage-design programme with one of its formative racing victories. Its interest lies in the relationship between the SportClassic interpretation and the original Imola story. Preserved original equipment and service documentation make that relationship easier to understand, while the absence of individual edition numbering calls for particularly clear model identification.
Related motorcycles
- Ducati MH900e Evoluzione
- Ducati 900 SuperSport Final Edition
Sources
Why this machine matters
The PaulSmart connects Ducati’s modern heritage-design programme with one of its formative racing victories. Its interest lies in the relationship between the SportClassic interpretation and the original Imola story. Preserved original equipment and service documentation make that relationship easier to understand, while the absence of individual edition numbering calls for particularly clear model identification.
The story
The Ducati PaulSmart 1000 LE honoured Paul Smart’s victory at the 1972 Imola 200-mile race through a modern SportClassic motorcycle. Ducati announced production would begin in September 2005, with the model generally associated with the 2006 range. The factory release specified 2,000, creating a defined heritage edition rather than a numbered racing replica.
Built in limited numbers
The announced 2,000-bike series is limited but not individually edition-numbered. A missing numbered plaque is therefore not, by itself, evidence against authenticity. Production beginning in 2005 and later model or registration dates describe the same edition. Other SportClassic models and motorcycles modified with PaulSmart-style bodywork remain outside this figure.
On the road
The PaulSmart connects Ducati’s modern heritage-design programme with one of its formative racing victories. Its interest lies in the relationship between the SportClassic interpretation and the original Imola story. Preserved original equipment and service documentation make that relationship easier to understand, while the absence of individual edition numbering calls for particularly clear model identification.
Gallery
Specifications
Factory specifications may vary by model year, market and configuration.
Identity & production
- Official model
- Ducati PaulSmart 1000 LE
- Base model
- SportClassic 1000
- Edition
- PaulSmart 1000 LE
Powertrain & performance
- Engine
- Air-cooled twin
- Powertrain
- Petrol
Motorcycle specifications
- Category
- Road motorcycle
Authenticity & identification
Establish the factory model through chassis records, original invoice and certificate of conformity where available. Compare the frame finish, fairing, seat and supplied equipment against the correct parts documentation. Record replacement components and owner modifications transparently. Authentication should rely on the complete motorcycle and its documents rather than expecting a serial plaque the edition did not use.
Ownership considerations
Establish the factory model through chassis records, original invoice and certificate of conformity where available. Compare the frame finish, fairing, seat and supplied equipment against the correct parts documentation. Record replacement components and owner modifications transparently. Authentication should rely on the complete motorcycle and its documents rather than expecting a serial plaque the edition did not use.
