2026 Ducati Formula ’73 Certified by CARB
Scrambler-based special edition part of Ducati’s 100th anniversary celebrations
Ducati is preparing to launch a special edition model called the Formula ’73 for 2026, as part of its 100th anniversary festivities. The Formula ’73 will be based off the Ducati Scrambler, and based on the name, we expect it will be a tribute to the 750 Supersport Desmo that debuted in 1973.
Proof of the special edition model’s existence comes to us via the California Air Resources Board, which recently released an updated executive order for the 2026 Ducati Scrambler, adding the Formula ’73 to the list of approved motorcycles. The executive order actually lists two entries, with the "T" version, as per Ducati's usual practice, denoting versions manufactured Thailand instead of Italy.
While the executive order confirms the Formula ’73 will use the same 803cc V-Twin engine as the Scrambler lineup, it’s interesting that “Scrambler” isn’t listed as part of its name. This suggests that while it may use the Scrambler platform, it may have significantly different styling, making it distinct from the existing models. Based on its name, we expect it to have a partial fairing to resemble the 1973 750 Supersport Desmo.
Ducati developed the 750 SS Desmo following Paul Smart’s and Bruno Spaggiari’s 1-2 finish in the inaugural Imola 200 in 1972. Smart and Spaggiari competed on 750 Imola Desmo racebikes, the first Ducati V-Twin with desmodromic valves. The 750 SS Desmo was then the first production model to use what would become a signature valvetrain for Ducati. In 1973, the Imola 200 was the opening round of the FIM Formula 750 series, hence the connection to the Formula '73 name.
We expect the Formula ’73 to be a limited production model, perhaps limited to 100 units for Ducati’s 100th birthday. An official announcement will likely come in early 2026.
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Dennis has been a part of the Motorcycle.com team since 2008, and through his tenure, has developed a firm grasp of industry trends, and a solid sense of what's to come. A bloodhound when it comes to tracking information on new motorcycles, if there's a new model on the horizon, you'll probably hear about it from him first.
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Hacksaw - it's NOT going to be a 750, it's an 803. How is THAT a 750 replica? The 900 was a much better bike, I rode one.
Being a lifetime Triumph rider, I always watched other motorcycles, like Norton ,BMW, Ducati, BSA, and all the Japanese models. All had their pluses and minuses. I never was a Harley fan. My favorite Triumph is the Trident. I do own an older speed Triple. Ownership boils down to taste. It’s about enjoying the experience. Maintain your cycle, find a good mechanic and enjoy the ride! Risky Rick