There is a great photo blog by Vicki Smith about “Old Blue”, the Ducati that won the 1977 Daytona race and the men who did it. Since the original bike is no longer available, Barber commissioned a replica for the museum, and it is amazing. Take some time to scroll through the pictures and read the captions.
That’s Cook Neilson (pronounced “Nelson”). Cook and his life long best friend, Phil Schilling did something in 1977 that captured the imagination of motorcyclists all around the USA. They built and raced “Old Blue”, born when Cook’s personal Ducati 750 SuperSport was transformed into a bike light enough and fast enough to beat the competition. The duo bored the original 748cc engine to 883cc and reduced weight using revolutionary techniques such as plasma-spraying aluminum rotors and fabricating titanium axles – all technology that was previously off limits to a privateer team. The two Cycle magazine editors captivated readers month after month as they chronicled their pursuit of victory at Daytona. When Daytona arrived they won the race; creating a moment in Ducati history that stands out to this day. That’s where this story begins I suppose……
0 Comments