Surviving Lockdown in Germany
Elektronik Sachse in Bremen, Germany, have been regular advertisers in OBA for some time, purveyors of digital ignition systems and other parts for classic bikes.
Like many, or most other business owners, Horst Patzer has found himself with some rare spare time during the COVID pandemic, and used this to good effect to complete some projects such as his Ducati 860 GTS. Horst explains the inspiration for this particular motorcycle. “I have a customer nearby with a fine collection of classic Ducatis, and for him I had made some jobs for new wiring and mounting of our electric ignition. So I had the chance to note all the beauty of the bikes. In that way I had an eye on a GT 750 or GTS, also a 900SS black/gold, that I had from 1979 to 83. This bike stupidly I sold when I had my own family. After a half year of searching I found this GTS for a reasonable price. My GTS is from 1978 and the painting and chrome parts like the exhaust are in very good condition.
“I have some modifications, with two targets: better technique and less weight. These include lower handlebars in alloy, titanium wheels spindles, and titanium bolts, Brembo Radial PR16-18 master cylinder and lever, Magura hydraulic clutch system, fitting of our electronic ignition Type Z-61, alloy rear sprocket and a lightweight Lithium Ion battery. I also picked up a spare engine with a complete electric start. It is now with brothers and sisters as I also have a 350 race bike and a 450 Scrambler with 500cc engine.
The other 860 is based on a 1979 Darmah, this one I modified 4 years before; the engine with double spark and torque cams from Brook Henry.
The bike was first built as a café racer, but last year I rebuilt it again to more age-based design, all with a lot of titanium and alloy tank, fender and other parts. The weight is now 180 kg and fun to ride.
The Monster is an early one from 1993, the Desert is my own present for my 60th birthday.”