Ducati Formula 73 breaks cover
Ducati has introduced a new collector-focused motorcycle called the Formula 73, built as a tribute to one of the brand's most celebrated classics, the Ducati 750 Super Sport Desmo. Production will be capped at just 873 individually numbered units worldwide.
- Production capped at just 873 units
- Powered by 803-cc twin cyl pushing 73 PS and 65.2 NmÂ
- Features Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres
At the heart of the Formula 73 is an 803 cc Desmodue engine, the same air-cooled twin used in several Scrambler models. It produces 73 PS and 65.2 Nm of torque. Ducati has paired the engine with a specially detailed Termignoni exhaust system developed exclusively for this edition. The bike also comes equipped with modern electronic aids such as Ducati Traction Control (DTC), cornering ABS, Ducati Quick Shift and two selectable riding modes.
Visually, the Formula 73 draws clear inspiration from the historic Ducati 750 Imola Desmo. It wears a silver and aqua green paint scheme highlighted by a vertical gold stripe running along the fuel tank. The stripe references the unpainted section on the original race bike's tank, which allowed mechanics to monitor fuel levels during competition. The design also incorporates classic café racer cues, including clip-on handlebars with bar-end mirrors and a half fairing.
The original 750 Super Sport Desmo itself was closely linked to Ducati's racing success. It was a road-going replica of the 750 Imola Desmo, the machine ridden to victory by Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari at the 1972 200 Miglia di Imola - Europe's first major race for production-based motorcycles. Notably, the 750 Super Sport Desmo marked the debut of Ducati's desmodromic valve timing system on a road bike.
Hardware on the Formula 73 includes 17-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres, billet aluminium brake and clutch levers, machined foot pegs, and a Rizoma fuel cap. Each unit also carries its individual serial number on the steering plate.
To underline its exclusivity, every motorcycle is delivered with a certificate of authenticity and a presentation box containing archival photographs and design sketches sourced from the Ducati Style Centre. Ducati has also collaborated with Arai to create a matching helmet, along with a special jacket finished in the Formula 73's distinctive colours.