Ducati 500 Sport Desmo (1979 -83)

Ducati 500 Sport Desmo (1979 -83)

The Ducati 500 Sport Desmo is a game-changer in the world of half-litre sporting bikes. Powered by a potent 180 parallel-twin four-stroke engine, this Italian beauty boasts desmodromic valve operation, eliminating valve bounce and allowing for higher revs.

Its performance is nothing short of impressive, with a top speed over 100mph and a quarter-mile time of just 13.5 seconds. Fuel consumption may not be its strongest suit, but the Ducati’s agility and handling make up for it, making sports riding a true delight.

With three disc brakes providing effortless stopping power, even in inclement weather, the Desmo is a bike that demands to be ridden hard. And ride it you will, thanks to its clip-on bars, rear-set pedals, and aggressive ergonomics.

The Ducati 500 Sport Desmo is an uncompromising motorcycle for those who live for speed, with no apologies or excuses made for its unyielding focus on performance.

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 (1979 -83)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelDucati 500 Sport Desmo
Year1979 -83

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
  • SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) design
  • Chain driven
  • 2 valves per cylinder
  • Desmodromic valve operation
  • Top speed over 100mph
  • Quarter mile acceleration in 13.5 seconds
  • Fuel consumption: 45-50mpg
  • 2.6 gallon fuel tank
  • Rear set pedals and clip-on style bars for sports riding
  • Three disc brakes
  • Braking power sufficient for bike weighing around 400lb
  • Saddle designed for one rider or a very close friend
  • No rear foot pegs as standard equipment
Ducati 500 Sport Desmo (1979 -83)

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