Ducati 500GTL (1977)

Ducati 500GTL (1977)

The Ducati 500GTL, a motorbike that embodies the contradictions of its era. Born out of the oil crisis of 1973, this parallel twin was designed to be a more affordable option for Ducati, yet it inherited the massive crankcases from its V-twin predecessors.

Its engine character is a mix of power and smoothness, thanks to the chain-driven valve-spring SOHC heads. The 500GTL’s performance, however, falls short of expectations, especially when compared to its iconic V-twin siblings.

But don’t let its modest performance fool you – this bike handles like a dream, with precise steering and agile corners. And while it may not have the style or charisma of its more celebrated counterparts, the 500GTL remains a testament to Ducati’s engineering prowess.

With only 1,105 units produced before being replaced by the GTV in 1977, the Ducati 500GTL is a rare gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, parallel twin cylinder, SOHC, chain driven, 2 valve per cylinder
Engine Capacity496.9 cc / 30.2 cu in
Max Power25.7 kw / 35 hp
Fuel Tank Capacity19 L / 5.0 US gal / 4.2 Imp gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)432 lbs / 196 kg
Seat Height29.9 inches / 760 mm
Ducati 500GTL (1977)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelDucati 500GTL
Year1977

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 Horsepower25.7 kw / 35 hp
Engine Management SystemDell’Orto PHF30BS/BD
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speed170 km/h / 105.6 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

BatteryYuasa Y50-N18L-A1, 12V 18Ah
StarterKick

Chassis & Suspension

Front Suspension35 mm Marzocchi 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 160 mm drum, leading shoe

Dimension & Weights

Overall Length2080 mm / 81.9 in
Overall Width840 mm / 33.1 in
Overall Height1100 mm / 43.3 in
Seat Height29.9 inches / 760 mm
Wheelbase55.1 inches / 1400 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity19 L / 5.0 US gal / 4.2 Imp gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight432 lbs / 196 kg
Dry Weight170 kg / 374 lbs

Features

  • Four-stroke engine
  • Parallel twin cylinder configuration
  • SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) design
  • Chain-driven valve train
  • 2 valves per cylinder
  • Oil crisis-inspired cost reduction goal
  • Massive crankcases with counter-balancers
  • 360 crankshaft initially considered, then changed to 180 crank
  • Available in 350 and 500 cc versions
  • GTL models debuted in 1975
  • Sport Desmo versions available almost two years later
  • Giugiaro styling shared with the 860GT
  • Poor reliability issues, particularly oil feed problems
  • Modest performance, especially from the 350 model
  • Good handling characteristics
  • Only 1,105 500s and 930 350s built before replacement by GTV
  • 35 hp at 6,500 rpm
  • Dry weight of 170 kg
  • Top speed of 170 km/h
Ducati 500GTL (1977)
Ducati 500GTL (1977)

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