Ducati Formula 73: A Modern Café Racer in Tribute to the Legend of the 750 Super Sport Desmo
12/02/2026
On the hundredth anniversary of its existence, Ducati pays tribute to one of the most important machines in its history. The Formula 73 model is a contemporary interpretation of the legendary 750 Super Sport Desmo – a motorcycle that defined the sporty DNA of the brand from Borgo Panigale in the 1970s. The limited series of 873 units is not only a nod to the past but also a modern Café Racer that blends a raw, mechanical character with advanced electronics. Let’s take a closer look at this unique machine that connects generations of motorcyclists.
Table of Contents
Key Insights
- Limited edition: Only 873 numbered units will be produced worldwide.
- Historical inspiration: A tribute to the 1973 750 Super Sport Desmo model and its victory in Imola.
- Classic engine: An air-cooled Desmodue 803 cm³ engine producing 73 HP.
- Modern technology: Cornering ABS, traction control, Quick Shift, and a TFT screen.
- Premium equipment: Rizoma components, Termignoni exhaust, and Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires.
Design: Minimalist elegance and historical details
The Ducati Formula 73 stands out with its silver-green paint scheme, a direct reference to the 750 Super Sport Desmo model. Ducati's design center has taken care of every detail – including the distinctive vertical gold stripe on the fuel tank, which originally served to check the gasoline level. The character of a true Café Racer is emphasized by the clip-on handlebars with mirrors at the ends, a narrow fairing, and a sporty line tail. The overall look is completed by numerous aluminum elements made by Rizoma, such as levers, footpegs, and fuel cap, which are standard equipment for this version.
Engine and Performance: A return to roots with Desmodue
At the heart of the motorcycle is the iconic L-twin Desmodue 803 cm³ engine, air-cooled. This unit generates 73 HP at 8,250 rpm and a maximum torque of 65.2 Nm at 7,000 rpm. The engine meets Euro5+ standards while maintaining its classic character and sound, further enhanced by the Termignoni exhaust. The use of a Ride-by-Wire throttle guarantees smooth throttle response, making the Formula 73 excel both in urban jungles and on winding roads.
Chassis and Suspension: Precision handling
The construction relies on a steel trellis frame painted in turquoise-green, which is another nod to the original model. KYB suspension is responsible for contact with the road: an upside-down front fork with a leg diameter of 41 mm and a rear shock absorber with preload adjustment. The motorcycle rolls on 17-inch spoked wheels fitted with modern Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires (120/70 front, 180/55 rear). Effective braking is provided by a Brembo system with a 4-piston radial caliper and a 330 mm disc at the front. The motorcycle's dry weight without fuel is just 183 kg, translating to high agility.
Electronics and Safety Systems of the Formula 73
Despite its retro style, the Ducati Formula 73 is thoroughly modern. The motorcycle is equipped with a package of advanced electronic systems, including: Cornering ABS (ABS system working in corners), Ducati Traction Control (DTC), Ducati Quick Shift (DQS), and variable riding modes (Power Modes). Information is relayed to the rider via a 4.3-inch TFT screen. Lighting is fully LED technology with daytime running lights (DRL). An optional Ducati multimedia system (DMS) is also available.
#Ducati#café racer
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many units of Ducati Formula 73 will be produced?
- Ducati Formula 73 is a strictly limited model. The manufacturer announced the creation of only 873 numbered units worldwide, making it attractive to collectors.
- What is the engine power of the Ducati Formula 73?
- The motorcycle is powered by a Desmodue engine with a displacement of 803 cm³, generating 73 HP at 8,250 rpm.
- Which historical model does the Formula 73 refer to?
- This model is a tribute to the 1973 Ducati 750 Super Sport Desmo, which, in turn, was a replica of Paul Smart's winning motorcycle from the 200 Miglia di Imola race.
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