Ducati Formula 73: Ducati has unveiled an exclusive limited-edition motorcycle called the Formula 73, a neo-retro café racer created to celebrate the brand’s legendary 750 Super Sport Desmo and its 100 years of racing heritage. With production capped at just 873 numbered units worldwide, the Formula 73 is designed as a true collector’s motorcycle that blends historic design inspiration with modern engineering.
The Legacy Behind the Formula 73 Name
The Ducati Formula 73 is deeply rooted in the brand’s racing history and technical milestones.
- Pays tribute to the iconic Ducati 750 Super Sport Desmo
- The original Super Sport Desmo was the first road-going Ducati to feature desmodromic valve timing
- Its lineage traces back to the legendary 750 Imola Desmo
- The race bike famously won the 1972 200 Miglia di Imola
- Ridden to victory by Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari
- This victory cemented Ducati’s global reputation in production-based motorcycle racing
The Formula 73 captures this historic moment in a modern, road-legal café racer format.
Ducati Formula 73 Limited Production & Collector Appeal
Ducati has ensured the Formula 73 remains highly exclusive.
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- Limited to 873 units globally
- Each motorcycle is individually numbered
- Comes with a certificate of authenticity
- Supplied with collector packaging, including:
- Archival photographs
- Original design sketches from the Ducati Style Centre
- Serial number displayed on the steering plate
This exclusivity makes the Formula 73 as much a display-worthy artefact as a rideable machine.
Ducati Formula 73 Design & Styling: Retro Racing Perfection
The Formula 73 stands apart visually from Ducati’s modern lineup.
Exterior Design Highlights
- Silver and aqua green paint scheme inspired by the original race bike
- Vertical gold stripe on the fuel tank
- References the unpainted fuel-level strip used on endurance racers
- Café racer silhouette with:
- Clip-on handlebars
- Bar-end mirrors
- Compact half fairing
- Minimalistic tail section for a classic racing stance
- Signature Ducati trellis frame remains visible
The result is a motorcycle that looks authentic to the 1970s yet refined for modern collectors.
Ducati Formula 73 Engine & Performance
At its heart, the Formula 73 features proven Ducati mechanicals.
Engine Specifications
- 803cc air-cooled Desmodue L-twin engine
- Maximum power output: 73 hp
- Peak torque: 65.2 Nm
- 6-speed gearbox
- Equipped with a slipper clutch
This engine is shared with several Ducati Scrambler models, ensuring reliability with character.
Exhaust & Mechanical Enhancements
- Features a bespoke exhaust developed by Termignoni
- Tuned to enhance sound while retaining period-correct styling
- Designed exclusively for the Formula 73
The exhaust adds a distinctive soundtrack that matches the bike’s heritage-driven identity.
Chassis, Wheels & Braking
Ducati has paired classic aesthetics with high-quality modern components.
- 17-inch wheels
- Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres for strong grip and performance
- Billet aluminium:
- Brake levers
- Clutch levers
- Foot pegs
- Premium Rizoma fuel cap
These components ensure the Formula 73 rides as well as it looks.
Modern Electronics & Rider Aids
Despite its retro design, the Formula 73 is packed with advanced electronics.
Technology Features
- Full-LED lighting system
- TFT colour display
- Ducati Quick Shift (up & down)
- Traction Control (DTC)
- Cornering ABS
- Two riding modes
- Self-cancelling indicators
This balance allows riders to enjoy classic styling without sacrificing safety or convenience.
Exclusive Riding Gear & Accessories
Ducati has created matching lifestyle gear to complement the motorcycle.
- Custom riding jacket in Formula 73 livery
- Matching helmet developed with Arai
- Designed specifically for Formula 73 owners and collectors
These accessories enhance the sense of exclusivity around the motorcycle.
Why the Ducati Formula 73 Matters
- Celebrates a defining moment in Ducati racing history
- Combines heritage design with modern performance
- Extremely limited production enhances collector value
- Appeals to enthusiasts who value story, craftsmanship, and authenticity
Final Verdict
The Ducati Formula 73 stands out as a meticulously crafted tribute to one of the most defining chapters in Ducati’s racing history, successfully blending vintage café racer aesthetics with modern performance and technology. While it shares its mechanical foundation with existing Ducati models, its exclusive design, heritage-inspired livery, limited production run of just 873 units, and rich collector-focused additions elevate it far beyond a standard motorcycle.
