Very enjoyable. WOW it only seems like a minute ago I tried to get Mike to come work for me and leave Captain Xerox behind in GMHA. Many really good memories of working with a Stylist that was hungry to learn how far he could stretch the limits of manufacturing to produce the components needed. Holden in the 80's, great people, great time to learn.
@David Bear What is his motorbike, you ask? David it’s a Ducati 900 SS (Super Sport) circa 1975~82. This model-series is Ducati’s original 900 SS, the SS being essentially an authentic (and very successful) ‘Production Homologation’ racer. The model SS distinctly combined Ducati’s famous desmodromic valve system to these early-series V-twins with their distinct bevel-drive cams. This combo enables the charismatic Duke V-twin to ‘rev to heaven’ and produces an unmistakable engine note that is dead-set glorious. Both this 900 SS and the intro 750 SS are regarded as one of the most beautiful (and best sounding) motorbikes of post-war 20th Century. In summary they look fantastic, have a great racing heritage, go good, and sound even better. Btw there’s also an Australian connection of sorts with these early ‘Bevels’. Btw not to be confused with the many-years later timing-belt Ducati 900 SS ‘homage editions’ models which are of completely different design.
Simcoe is a great guy, I’m fortunate enough to be currently working at GM design and see him regularly.
This was great!
Agreed, we had a great time talking with Mr. Simcoe.
Very enjoyable. WOW it only seems like a minute ago I tried to get Mike to come work for me and leave Captain Xerox behind in GMHA. Many really good memories of working with a Stylist that was hungry to learn how far he could stretch the limits of manufacturing to produce the components needed. Holden in the 80's, great people, great time to learn.
Great discussion, What model Motorcycle was in Michael's office?
@David Bear
What is his motorbike, you ask?
David it’s a Ducati 900 SS (Super Sport) circa 1975~82. This model-series is Ducati’s original 900 SS, the SS being essentially an authentic (and very successful) ‘Production Homologation’ racer.
The model SS distinctly combined Ducati’s famous desmodromic valve system to these early-series V-twins with their distinct bevel-drive cams. This combo enables the charismatic Duke V-twin to ‘rev to heaven’ and produces an unmistakable engine note that is dead-set glorious.
Both this 900 SS and the intro 750 SS are regarded as one of the most beautiful (and best sounding) motorbikes of post-war 20th Century.
In summary they look fantastic, have a great racing heritage, go good, and sound even better. Btw there’s also an Australian connection of sorts with these early ‘Bevels’.
Btw not to be confused with the many-years later timing-belt Ducati 900 SS ‘homage editions’ models which are of completely different design.
Nice interview, though he says he's much less arrogant now, I'd hate to see what he was when he took the job.
Couch, for those of us that worked and know him, I would not call him arrogant, more did not suffer fools.