Unveiled at the Wrooom press event in Madonna di Campiglio on 20th January 2005, the Desmosedici GP5 was Ducati's latest motorcycle for their third season in MotoGP. The works team riders were Carlos Checa and Loris Capirossi. The GP5 was powered by the the fearsome 'twin pulse' Desmodronic 90° V-four 4-stroke of 990cc, that revved to a spine-tingling 16,500 rpm and produced around 230bhp. A trellis frame rode, Ohlins suspension and Brembo’s latest carbon brakes combined to make a formidable package. This coupled with Ducati’s investment in upgrading their wind tunnel (the GP5 had one of the highest top speeds of the season) meant Ducati finally had a package with the GP5.  

 

This GP5 is chassis D16GP5LC1, and was Loris Capirossi’s main motorcycle during the 2005 Moto GP season. Whilst the season was dominated by Valentino Rossi and Yamaha (winning 11 of 17 rounds), Capirossi won the Japanese and Malaysian GPs, took two podiums and had 8 other top ten finishes. The Japanese race was significant for a number of reasons: it was the first time that a premier-class Grand Prix held in Japan was won by a non-Japanese manufacturer; It was the first win of the year for Bridgestone; it was the first time that Capirossi achieved a clean sweep of race victory, pole position and new lap record.  

 

LC1 is fully restored with only around 150km gentle use covered since at during shake downs or in demonstrations at events such as the Goodwood Festival of Speed. LC1 was purchased directly from Ducati Corse in fully restored condition in early 2007. It is believed to be the only example in private hands to retain its original Magneti Marelli electronics. This is a very rare opportunity to acquire such a significant machine, with clear provenance, such success and in fantastic condition. The Ferrari of the 2005 Moto GP season one could say!