ok, a couple of months later...
Barefoot, I have a 749 Dark I'm selling. It's ready to go.
Just completed the top end rebuild. Several experts locally (ACS & Nichols Ducati) and a couple of gents on this site
(ie: Tye / Duke / others too but Tye and Duke stands out most) helped me out with several questions and issues to get her back up and running.
Before the rebuild, I had the timing and valve adjusted. As a matter of fact, I had to do it twice.
1st valve adjustment $600 > lost compression due to an exhaust valve
2nd valve adjustment $200 > with new exhaust valve
before the 1st valve adjustment, I did the 12k (obviously) with new belts and spark plugs. Didn't get to ride it since I bought the parts and moving to a new house.
Got some funds and picked up the parts required to complete the rebuild (1 year after)
cleaned the pistons and rehoned the cylinders / changed the piston rings (new) / changed the base and head gaskets (new)
new Barrett clutch pack as of August 22th, 2014 @ 12:00p.m.
She's been running great for the last 200 miles. Still breaking in the new rings during my commute to work from Santa Cruz to Sunnyvale.
I only ride it twice a week coz I got kids to pick up from school 3 days a week.
New chain and new sprockets front and back.
almost new Michelin 2CT (bought right before the compression loss / 1st valve adjustment)
$5,500 out the door.
Was selling for $5k but I'd like to get a few bucks back from all my $6,000 investment and I think it's pretty fair to add $500. Not trying to jip ya or anything.
I worked really hard to get her back to running shape.
I sold my '63 Impala about 2 years ago and I'd like to either pick up another Impala or a liter bike (954RR / 10R). Probably gonna go with another '63.
Good luck with your search. here's some pix, enjoy. lemme know if you have any questions.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/youcancallmechoy/