Ducati 250 Mark 3D Desmo (1970 – 72)

Ducati 250 Mark 3D Desmo (1970 - 72)

Ducati’s journey in the 1960s was marked by challenges, but the decade’s latter half brought a resurgence in fortunes for the Italian bike maker. The introduction of the “wide-case” single engine in 1967 paved the way for a new range of bikes, including the Ducati 250 Mark 3.

This iconic model, launched in 1970, boasted revised crankcases with a wider rear section that supported the frame. A larger sump capacity of 2.5 Litres and a strengthened kick-start further enhanced the bike’s performance.

The 249 cc SOHC single engine, paired with a five-speed transmission, delivered an exhilarating riding experience. The addition of a speedometer and tachometer on the top triple clamp offered riders valuable real-time feedback.

With its unique blend of power, handling, and style, the Ducati 250 Mark 3D Desmo was a true standout in its era, cementing Ducati’s reputation as a manufacturer of exceptional motorcycles.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, single cylinder, Desmo SOHC, bevel gear driven
Engine Capacity248.6 cc / 15.2 cu in
Max Power16.4 kw / 22 hp
Fuel Tank Capacity13 L / 3.4 US gal / 2.9 Imp gal
Seat Height28.9 inches / 735 mm
Ducati 250 Mark 3D Desmo (1970 - 72)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelDucati 250 Mark 3D Desmo
Year1970 – 72

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, single cylinder, Desmo SOHC, bevel gear driven
Displacement248.6 cc / 15.2 cu in
Bore x Stroke74 x 57.8 mm
Compression Ratio10.0:1
Max Horsepower16.4 kw / 22 hp
Engine Management SystemDell’Orto SS1 29D carburetor
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speed150 km/h / 93 mph

Transmission

Gearbox5 Speed
Primary Drive Ratio2.500:1
Gear Ratios1st 2.46 / 2nd 1.73 / 3rd 1.35 / 4th 1.10 / 5th 0.97:1
Final DriveChain

Electrical & Electronics System

BatterySAFA 3L3 13.5 Ah
StarterKick

Chassis & Suspension

Front SuspensionHydraulic fork, Ducati 31.5 mm
Rear SuspensionSwingarm, Marzocchi dual shocks, 3-way adjustable

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size2.75-18
Rear Tire Size3.00-18
Front Brakes180mm Drum
Rear Brakes160mm Drum

Dimension & Weights

Overall Length2000 mm / 78.7 in
Overall Width600 mm / 23.6 in
Overall Height940 mm / 37.0 in
Seat Height28.9 inches / 735 mm
Wheelbase53.5 inches / 1360 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity13 L / 3.4 US gal / 2.9 Imp gal
Dry Weight127 kg / 280 lbs

Features

  • Wide-case single engine
  • Overhead-camshaft engine architecture
  • Revised crankcases
  • Increased sump capacity (2.5 Litres)
  • Stronger kick-start
  • Rear frame section redesigned
  • 249 cc SOHC single engine
  • Five-speed transmission
  • Single filler fuel tank
  • Speedometer mounted on top triple clamp
  • Tachometer mounted on top triple clamp
  • Headlight shell no longer housing speedo and tacho
Ducati 250 Mark 3D Desmo (1970 - 72)

Know someone who’d find this useful? Share this page with a friend, your riding club or your favourite motorcycle community.

Explore our collection of Ducati motorcycles for detailed specifications and model information. Or browse all motorcycle manufacturers.


more Specifications