Ducati 500 Sport Desmo (1976- 78)

Ducati 500 Sport Desmo (1976- 78)

The Ducati 500 Sport Desmo embodies the essence of Italian engineering, combining innovative desmodromic valve operation with a potent parallel-twin four-stroke engine.

This 180cc powerhouse boasts a unique layout that eliminates valve bounce, allowing for exceptional high-revving capabilities. While its mechanical advantages may be offset by service intervals measured in hundreds rather than thousands of miles, the Ducati’s design works admirably well in practice.

On the open road, the Desmo proves to be a nimble and agile companion, with sports-style riding made easy by its rear-set pedals and clip-on bars. The bike’s stopping prowess is equally impressive, thanks to its three-disc brakes and lightweight 400-pound chassis.

For riders who crave exhilarating performance and precision handling, the Ducati 500 Sport Desmo delivers a truly unforgettable experience.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, parallel twin cylinder, SOHC, chain driven, 2 valve per cylinder
Engine Capacity496.9 cc / 30.2 cu in
Max Power36.8 kw / 50 hp
Fuel Tank Capacity3.17 US gallons / 12.0 L
Seat Height29.9 inches / 760 mm
Ducati 500 Sport Desmo (1976- 78)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelDucati 500 Sport Desmo
Year1976- 78

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, parallel twin cylinder, SOHC, chain driven, 2 valve per cylinder
Displacement496.9 cc / 30.2 cu in
Bore x Stroke78 x 52 mm
Compression Ratio9.6:1
Max Horsepower36.8 kw / 50 hp
Engine Management System2x Dell’Orto PHF 30 carburetors
Lubrication SystemHigh pressure lubrication with gearpump and net and cartridge filters
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speed185 km/h / 115 mph

Transmission

ClutchWet, multiplate
Gearbox5 Speed
Primary Drive Ratio2.125:1 (32/68)
Gear Ratios1st 2.500 / 2nd 1.714 / 3rd 1.333 / 4th 1.074 / 5th 0.900:1
Final DriveChain

Electrical & Electronics System

StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Frame TypeTubular steel, double down tube
Front Suspension35 mm Paioli telescopic fork
Rear SuspensionSwing arm, 2 x Marzocchi shocks, 3-way adjustable

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size3.25-18
Rear Tire Size3.50-18
Front Brakes2 x 256 mm Brembo discs
Rear BrakesSingle 260 mm Brembo disc

Dimension & Weights

Overall Length2050 mm / 80.7 in
Overall Width710 mm / 28.0 in
Overall Height1060 mm / 41.7 in
Seat Height29.9 inches / 760 mm
Wheelbase55.1 inches / 1400 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity3.17 US gallons / 12.0 L
Dry Weight185 kg / 407.8 lbs

Features

  • Four stroke engine
  • Parallel twin cylinder configuration
  • SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) design
  • Chain driven
  • 2 valves per cylinder
  • Desmodromic valve operation
  • Top speed over 100mph
  • Quarter mile time: 13.5 seconds
  • Fuel consumption: 45-55 mpg
  • 2.6 gallon fuel tank capacity
  • Rear set pedals and clip-on style bars
  • Three disc brakes
  • Braking performance in all weathers
  • Saddle designed for one rider and a passenger
  • No rear foot pegs as standard equipment
Ducati 500 Sport Desmo (1976- 78)
Ducati 500 Sport Desmo (1976- 78)
Ducati 500 Sport Desmo (1976- 78)

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