Ducati Formula 73 Brings Iconic 1970s Racing Heritage into a Modern Limited-Edition Masterpiece
The Ducati Formula 73 is not just another premium motorcycle it’s a rolling tribute to Ducati’s legendary racing era that shaped the global superbike culture. Designed as a limited-edition café racer, this motorcycle blends iconic 1970s motorsport styling with modern performance, electronics, and safety. With only 873 numbered units worldwide, the Formula 73 targets serious collectors and passionate riders who value heritage as much as technology. For Indian enthusiasts dreaming of exclusivity, design purity, and authentic Ducati DNA, this motorcycle represents history, craftsmanship, and emotion on two wheels.
What Is Ducati Formula 73?
The Ducati Formula 73 is a heritage-inspired limited-edition motorcycle that celebrates Ducati’s golden racing era of the early 1970s. Drawing inspiration from iconic race machines like the legendary 750 Super Sport Desmo and the historic Imola race winners, this model is designed to look vintage while performing like a modern motorcycle.
Unlike mass-produced Ducati sport bikes, the Formula 73 is crafted as a collector-grade café racer—a machine that can be ridden, admired, and preserved as a symbol of Ducati’s racing legacy.
Engine & Performance: Classic Soul, Modern Power
At its heart, the Ducati Formula 73 features an 803 cc air-cooled Desmodue L-twin engine, known for its torque-rich delivery and characterful sound.
Engine Specifications
Power: 73 PS @ 8,250 rpm
Torque: 65.2 Nm @ 7,000 rpm
Engine Type: Air-cooled L-Twin, Desmodromic valves
Transmission: 6-speed gearbox
Emissions: Euro 5+ compliant
Despite its classic inspiration, the engine feels refined, responsive, and usable for real-world riding—perfect for Indian road conditions where torque matters more than outright top speed.
Limited-Edition Design & Heritage Styling
The Ducati Formula 73 stands out instantly thanks to its authentic café racer silhouette and period-correct racing details.
Key Design Highlights
Silver and aqua-green livery with a gold vertical tank stripe
Retro clip-on handlebars with bar-end mirrors
Compact front fairing inspired by 1970s race bikes
Steel trellis frame with exposed mechanical beauty
17-inch spoked wheels
Premium Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres
Each motorcycle is individually numbered and delivered with a certificate of authenticity, making ownership deeply personal and exclusive.
Modern Electronics & Rider Aids
While the Formula 73 looks vintage, it is fully modern underneath.
Electronic Features
Ducati Quick Shift (up/down)
Cornering ABS
Ducati Traction Control (DTC)
Ride-by-wire throttle
Two riding modes: Sport & Road
Full-LED lighting with DRL
Colour TFT display with smartphone connectivity support
This balance ensures riders enjoy classic aesthetics without sacrificing safety or confidence—a big plus for Indian riding conditions.
Chassis, Suspension & Braking Setup
Ducati has carefully engineered the Formula 73 to deliver stable handling and comfort without compromising its café racer DNA.
Hardware Highlights
Steel trellis frame for rigidity and feedback
41 mm inverted KYB front forks
Adjustable KYB rear mono-shock
Brembo braking system with advanced ABS
Wide, sticky tyres for confident cornering
The setup is tuned for engaging weekend rides, urban cruising, and spirited highway runs rather than track dominance.
Collector Appeal: Why Formula 73 Is Special
What truly separates the Ducati Formula 73 from other motorcycles is its collectible value.
Why It’s a Collector’s Dream
Limited to only 873 units globally
Individually machined serial number plate
Inspired directly by Ducati’s racing milestones
Optional matching lifestyle gear (helmet & jacket)
Strong long-term value retention potential
For Indian collectors, this motorcycle is closer to automotive art than a conventional daily ride.
Ducati Formula 73 Expected Price & Launch in India
As of now, Ducati has not officially confirmed India-specific availability.
Expected Pricing
International price: ~€15,890
Expected India price: ₹18–22 lakh (ex-showroom, estimated)
Expected Arrival
Late 2026 (limited CBU imports likely)
Given India’s import duties, the Formula 73 will remain a niche luxury offering aimed at collectors rather than volume buyers.
Ducati Formula 73 vs Regular Ducati Models
| Aspect | Formula 73 | Standard Ducati Sport Bikes |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Retro café racer | Aggressive modern |
| Production | Limited (873 units) | Mass production |
| Heritage Value | Extremely high | Moderate |
| Electronics | Essential modern aids | Advanced performance tech |
| Buyer Type | Collectors | Performance riders |
Pros and Cons
Pros
Rare limited-edition motorcycle
Iconic Ducati racing heritage
Modern safety & electronics
Strong emotional and visual appeal
Excellent long-term collectible value
Cons
Very limited availability
High price in India
Not designed for hardcore track use
Niche ownership appeal
Who Should Buy Ducati Formula 73?
The Ducati Formula 73 is ideal for:
Ducati brand loyalists
Motorcycle collectors
Riders who value design and heritage
Weekend leisure riders
Buyers seeking exclusivity over outright speed
Final Verdict
The Ducati Formula 73 is a rare fusion of heritage, craftsmanship, and modern engineering. It doesn’t chase lap times or sales numbers instead, it celebrates Ducati’s soul. For Indian enthusiasts who appreciate history and exclusivity, this limited-edition café racer stands as one of the most emotionally compelling Ducati motorcycles expected in 2026.