Ducati Formula ’73: Technical Specs and Analysis of the 100th Anniversary Model

Ducati Formula ’73: Technical Specs and Analysis of the 100th Anniversary Model

As Borgo Panigale approaches its centennial year in 2026, a new production unit named the Ducati Formula ’73 is set to debut. This leak originates not from official press releases, but from the analysis of U.S. homologation databases—specifically, 2026 model year documents filed with the California Air Resources Board (CARB).
Technical Platform Analysis: Engine and Chassis

According to the deposited technical documentation, the Ducati Formula ’73 shares its mechanical DNA with the Scrambler range. While the "Scrambler" branding is notably absent from the name, emission data and engine specifications point to a consolidated architecture:

Engine Architecture: 90° V-Twin (L-Twin).

Cooling System: Air/Oil cooled.

Valve Train: Two-valve Desmodromic distribution.

Displacement: 803 cc.

Homologation: The model is listed alongside the 2026 Scrambler Icon and Full Throttle, suggesting shared electronic mapping and exhaust hardware to meet California’s stringent environmental standards.

Historical Context: From Formula 750 to the 2026 Series

The Formula ’73 nomenclature is a clear heritage operation linked to the legendary 1973 Ducati 750 Supersport Desmo. That motorcycle marked the transition of race-bred technology into mass production, following the historic success of Paul Smart and Bruno Spaggiari at the 1972 Imola 200 Miles.

The term "Formula" refers directly to the FIM Formula 750 category, where series-derived machines competed during that era. Technically, the 2026 Formula ’73 is expected to feature:

Bespoke Bodywork: Aesthetics inspired by the iconic rounded fairings of the original 750 SS.

Chassis Tuning: Likely adoption of suspension components with firmer settings compared to the Scrambler Icon to emphasize its "Sport" soul.

Production Details and Variants

The CARB documents reveal the existence of two distinct variants for the 2026 market:

Formula ’73 Standard.

Formula ’73 "T": According to Ducati’s internal coding for U.S. authorities, the "T" suffix indicates production at the Rayong plant in Thailand, where the Scrambler platform models for international markets are currently assembled.

100th Anniversary Considerations (1926-2026)

While official power and torque figures have yet to be released, it is highly probable that the engine will maintain the reference values of the current platform: approximately 73 hp (54 kW) and 65 Nm of torque.

The inclusion of the Formula ’73 in homologation documents anticipates an official reveal in late 2025 or early 2026. This motorcycle is positioned to be the first in a series of celebratory models marking 100 years since the founding of the Società Scientifica Radio Brevetti Ducati.