When Fabio Taglioni designed his 100cc Gran Sport Marianna back in 1954, it was unlikely he expected this engine to have such a long and lingering influence on Ducati design. Over the next 20 years, the single was developed into myriad different types, in capacities up to 436cc, and was the first production engine to utilise desmodromic valves. Incorporating features that continue to this day, the overhead camshaft single would become one of the most important designs in Ducati history. Years of research have resulted in – the first book to document in detail all the types of Ducati overhead valve singles, making this book an invaluable resource to the collector, restorer, and enthusiasts of these magnificent motorcycles. Author Ian Falloon is one of the world’s leading motorcycle historians. He has written numerous motorcycle books, including the , , and . He has a small collection of classic sporting motorcycles, including a Ducati 750 Super Sport, which he has owned since 1976.