NEW DELHI: Ducati has launched the limited-edition Formula 73 café racer in India at an ex-showroom price of Rs 20 lakh. Inspired by the Italian manufacturer’s iconic 750 Super Sport Desmo from 1973, the motorcycle combines retro racing-inspired styling with modern electronics and an 803cc air-cooled engine.
The Formula 73 is part of Ducati’s celebration of its racing heritage and is limited to just 873 numbered units worldwide. According to reports, the entire allocation for India has already been booked, making the motorcycle a collector-focused offering rather than a regular production model.
Each unit comes with a unique serial number, a certificate of authenticity and a special collector’s box containing historical photographs and sketches from the Ducati Style Centre.
Ducati Formula 73 pays tribute to racing history
The Formula 73 draws inspiration from the Ducati 750 Super Sport Desmo, a road-going motorcycle associated with the brand’s early success in production-based racing. Its heritage traces back to the 750 Imola Desmo, ridden by Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari to victory at the 1972 Imola 200 race.
The motorcycle’s styling reflects this history through a silver and aqua-green colour scheme, complemented by a vertical gold stripe running along the fuel tank. The stripe recalls a feature of the original racing motorcycle, where an unpainted section helped the pit crew check fuel levels.
Other café racer design elements include clip-on handlebars, bar-end mirrors, a short front fairing and a tapered rear section. The aqua-green steel trellis frame adds contrast to the bodywork, while premium billet aluminium components give the motorcycle a distinctive finish.
The detailing also includes aluminium brake and clutch levers, footpegs and a Rizoma fuel cap. Together, these elements distinguish the Formula 73 from Ducati’s standard production motorcycles.
803cc engine produces 73 hp
Powering the Ducati Formula 73 is an 803cc, air-cooled Desmodue L-twin engine featuring desmodromic valve timing. The engine produces 73 hp at 8,250 rpm and 65.2 Nm of peak torque at 7,000 rpm.
The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox and a Termignoni exhaust system developed specifically for the motorcycle. Ducati’s desmodromic valve system is a key part of the brand’s engineering identity and has featured prominently in its racing and road-going motorcycles.
The Formula 73 weighs 183 kg without fuel and has a 14.5-litre fuel tank. Its seat height is 808 mm, while the overall setup is designed around a blend of urban riding and classic café racer styling.
The motorcycle uses 17-inch spoked wheels fitted with Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tyres. These components complement its retro appearance while retaining a contemporary tyre and wheel package.
Modern electronics and safety features
Although the Formula 73 takes inspiration from a motorcycle of the 1970s, it comes equipped with modern rider-assistance technology.
Key features include Ducati Traction Control, Cornering ABS and Ducati Quick Shift. Traction control helps manage rear-wheel grip, while Cornering ABS is designed to support controlled braking when the motorcycle is leaning through a turn. The quickshifter enables gear changes without using the clutch in supported riding conditions.
Riders can choose between Sport and Road riding modes. The motorcycle also features a 4.3-inch colour TFT instrument display and full-LED lighting.
The chassis uses a steel trellis frame finished in aqua green. Suspension duties are handled by a 41mm KYB upside-down front fork and a preload-adjustable KYB rear monoshock.
Braking is managed by a 330mm front disc with a radial four-piston calliper and a 245mm rear disc. The combination of modern braking electronics and conventional chassis hardware supports the bike’s positioning as a limited-edition road-going café racer.
Available accessories include heated grips, turn-by-turn navigation, a Ducati Multimedia System and an anti-theft system, depending on the market and configuration.
Price and availability in India
The Ducati Formula 73 is priced at Rs 20 lakh, ex-showroom, in India. However, the limited production run of 873 motorcycles worldwide means availability is restricted.
Reports published following the launch stated that the entire Indian allocation had already been claimed, with bookings closed. Prospective buyers should check directly with Ducati India for any further availability or cancellation-related opportunities.
Each motorcycle carries its individual serial number on the steering plate and comes with documentation confirming its authenticity. The accompanying collector’s box includes historical images and sketches from Ducati’s design archives.
The limited production, historical inspiration and distinctive detailing are central to the Formula 73’s appeal. Rather than introducing a new performance platform, Ducati has used the motorcycle to connect its current product range with its racing legacy.
For enthusiasts and collectors, the Formula 73 offers a combination of classic Ducati design cues, a traditional L-twin engine and contemporary electronic equipment. Its Rs 20 lakh price and restricted availability place it firmly in the premium, limited-edition motorcycle segment.