Limited Edition Ducati Formula 73 – First Look

The Formula 73 sports a silver and aqua green livery inspired by the original 750 Super Sport Desmo. The vertical gold stripe on the tank represents the unpainted stripe on the Imola race bike, which the team used to check the fuel level. Despite the period-correct color scheme, the Formula 73 isn’t a full-on retro bike, but a modern interpretation of the original, based on a concept model Ducati displayed at the 2024 London Bike Shed MotoShow. Instead of the smooth, round curves on the 750 SS, the Formula 73’s partial fairing with sharp edges and protrusions, reflecting more modern aerodynamics.

While Ducati’s modern V2 engine and V4 Granturismo engines have switched to spring return valve systems, the 803cc Desmodue engine powering the Scrambler family remains an air-cooled V-Twin with two desmodromic valves per cylinder, and thus, the closest resemblance to the original 750 Super Sport’s engine. That’s why it makes sense for the Scrambler platform to serve as the base for the Formula 73.

Even the performance figures play along with the theme, with the Scrambler engine claiming a peak output of 73 hp at 8,250 rpm, while torque maxes out at a claimed 48.1 lb-ft. at 7,000 rpm. The engine is matched with a custom developed Termignoni silencer, and modern technology such as a bi-directional quick shift, two ride modes, and an inertial measurement unit powering cornering ABS and traction control.

Unlike other modern Ducatis which have adopted monocoque frames, the Formula 73 retains the Scrambler’s more traditional steel trellis, painted green to match the original Desmo. The suspension and braking systems are also shared with the Scrambler. KYB provides a 41mm inverted fork and preload-adjustable rear shock, while Brembo supplies the four-piston radial-mount front brake and single-piston floating rear caliper. Where the Formula 73 does differ is in the 17-inch spoked front wheel, instead of the Scrambler’s 18-inch cast wheel.

Other features include full LED lighting, a 4.3-inch TFT display with the Ducati Multimedia System and navigation, Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires, and a selection of billet aluminum pieces. Ducati claims a wet weight (but without fuel) of 403 pounds. With the 3.8-gallon fuel tank filled up, that works out to be a running weight of about 426 pounds.

The Ducati Formula 73 will arrive first in European dealerships in the spring, and in the rest of the world by the summer. U.S. pricing starts at $19,995. Each bike comes with a numbered plate, a certificate of authenticity, and a collection of images and sketches.