DUCATI 500 Desmo (1978-1979) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1978, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer launched the Ducati 500 Desmo, a milder version of the 500 series, suitable for those riders who prefer comfort over raw strength. The bike came with the same package as the previous model with minor modifications.

The Ducati 500 Sport Desmo started production in 1976, and in 1977, a smaller 350cc version was introduced in a black and yellow color scheme. Most motorcycles were manufactured at the Italjet factory, with engines supplied by Ducati.

In the visual department, the bike packed a rectangular headlight up front, a small fly screen, a one-piece dual seat, side-mounted rear shocks, a dual chromed exhaust system, and five-spoke cast-aluminum wheels.

The style was handled by Leopoldo Tartarini. It featured a down tube frame, a 14-liter fiberglass fuel tank with a matching seat, FPS cast-aluminum wheels, and a rear disc brake. It was finished in red and white with a black exhaust system.

The bike was built around a tubular steel frame with a 35 mm Paioli telescopic fork on the front and twin side-mounted three-way adjustable Marzocchi shocks on the rear, providing optimum suspension performance and handling.

The 1978 Ducati 500 Desmo had its soul brought to life by a 497cc four-stroke air-cooled parallel-twin engine managed by two Dell'Orto carburetors, delivering 50 hp with a maximum peak force at 8,500 rpm.

With a five-speed manual transmission controlled by a wet multi-plate clutch and a final chain drive, the bike reached a top speed of 185 kph (115 mph).