Ducati Unveils Limited-Edition Formula 73 in Centenary Year, Inspired by 750 Super Sport Desmo

February 13, 2026: In its landmark centenary year, Ducati has revealed the Formula 73, a limited-edition motorcycle that revives the spirit of one of the most iconic models in the brand’s history. The Borgo Panigale manufacturer presents the Formula 73 as a modern tribute to the legendary Ducati 750 Super Sport Desmo, the first Ducati road bike equipped with a desmodromic valve timing system.

The new Formula 73 celebrates the racing DNA and timeless design that helped establish Ducati’s global legend, blending heritage styling with contemporary technology for enthusiasts seeking exclusivity and performance.

A Tribute to the 750 Super Sport and Imola Glory

The original 750 Super Sport Desmo was born from the success of the Ducati 750 Imola Desmo, which triumphed at the historic 200 Miglia di Imola. Riders Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari secured victory in what was the first major European competition for production-derived motorcycles — a formula that later inspired the Superbike World Championship.

That win marked the beginning of Ducati’s dominance in production-based racing, a legacy that now includes more than 400 victories, 16 rider world titles and 21 manufacturer championships.

The Formula 73 pays homage to this golden era, reinterpreting the design language and racing philosophy that defined Ducati in the 1970s — a decade of cultural transformation, artistic vitality and bold innovation.

Ducati Formula 73: Design and Unmistakable Personality

The Ducati Formula 73 is a contemporary reinterpretation of the 1973 750 Super Sport Desmo. Sleek, minimalist and slender, it channels the rebellious energy of Urban Café Racers while retaining the timeless charm of a collector’s motorcycle.

Key Design Highlights:

Silver and aqua green livery, recreated through archival research by the Ducati Style Centre
Vertical gold stripe on the fuel tank, referencing the unpainted strip on the 750 Imola Desmo
Clip-on handlebars with bar-end mirrors
Short, tapered fairing and tail section
17-inch spoked wheels wrapped in Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres
Billet aluminium components, including brake and clutch levers, footpegs and a Rizoma fuel cap

Like all Ducati limited-edition models, each Formula 73 features its serial number engraved on the steering plate and comes with a certificate of authenticity, along with exclusive archival sketches and period imagery presented in a collector’s box.

Engine and Performance: Innovation Rooted in Tradition

At the heart of the Formula 73 lies Ducati’s proven 803 cc Desmodue L-twin engine, Euro5+ compliant and delivering 73 horsepower at 8,250 rpm. Faithful to the desmodromic distribution system that defined Ducati engineering, the engine provides a distinctive character that prioritises riding feel as much as outright performance.

Developed in collaboration with Termignoni, the dedicated silencer enhances the bike’s signature sound. Ride-by-Wire throttle ensures progressive, smooth response across the rev range.

The steel trellis frame, painted in aqua green, reinforces the connection to the original Super Sport Desmo while contributing to agile handling and everyday rideability.