
Ducati Formula 73 unveiled as limited-edition tribute to racing heritage
India Today
In its centenary year, Ducati has unveiled the limited-edition Formula 73, a heritage-inspired cafe racer that revives the spirit of the iconic 750 Super Sport Desmo with modern engineering and exclusivity.
In its centenary year, Italian motorcycle manufacturer Ducati has revealed the new Formula 73, a limited-edition motorcycle inspired by one of the brand’s most iconic machines, the legendary 750 Super Sport Desmo. The special model blends heritage styling with modern engineering and will be produced in a numbered series of just 873 units globally. The motorcycle is scheduled to reach Indian dealerships in the fourth quarter of 2026.
The Formula 73 celebrates the historic 750 Super Sport Desmo, Ducati’s first road-going motorcycle to feature the brand’s signature desmodromic valve timing system. The original model was closely linked to the 750 Imola Desmo race bike that secured victory at the prestigious 200 Miglia di Imola in 1972.
That historic race saw legendary racers Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari claim victory, marking a defining moment for Ducati in production-based racing. The success helped establish the company’s motorsport credentials, eventually contributing to a championship record of more than 400 victories, 16 riders’ titles and 21 manufacturers’ championships.
The Formula 73 is conceived as an Urban Cafe Racer, reinterpreting the aesthetic character of the 1973 750 Super Sport Desmo while incorporating contemporary detailing. The motorcycle features a slim and minimalist design language intended to highlight agility and craftsmanship.
Its silver and aqua green livery draws direct inspiration from the original model and was developed after extensive research within Ducati’s historical archives. A distinctive vertical gold stripe on the fuel tank references the unpainted strip on the Imola race bike that allowed quick fuel-level checks during racing.
Further design highlights include clip-on handlebars with bar-end mirrors, a short tapered fairing, billet aluminium components, and a standard-fit fuel cap developed in collaboration with Termignoni. Each unit also carries its individual serial number and comes with a certificate of authenticity along with archival sketches and images presented in a collector’s box.













