Italy in the 1970s was a hotbed for sporty singles and nimble twins that shaped riders’ expectations of handling and sound. Ducati’s lineup from that decade still turns heads today, with models that moved from everyday roadsters to competitive lightweight racers.
There are 10 1970s Ducati Motorcycles, ranging from 350 Mark 3 to Scrambler 350, selected to show the era’s variety; each entry lists Production years,Displacement (cc),Engine & notable (max 15 words) — you’ll find below.
Which 1970s Ducati is the easiest to restore for a home mechanic?
The 350 Mark 3 and similar small-displacement models are generally easier: simpler electrics, fewer body panels, and a large aftermarket for replacement parts and repro trim, making them good starter projects.
How hard is it to source parts or maintain engines for these Ducatis?
Many common wear items and engine parts are still produced by specialists, and community forums plus parts suppliers make routine maintenance and engine rebuilds realistic, though rare trim or original cosmetic pieces can be pricier.
1970s Ducati Motorcycles
| Model | Production years | Displacement (cc) | Engine & notable (max 15 words) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 750 GT | 1971–1974 | 748 | 90° V-twin bevel-drive OHC, torquey road twin |
| 750 Sport | 1972–1974 | 748 | 90° V-twin, sport-tuned cams and lighter chassis |
| 750 SS | 1973–1974 | 748 | 90° V-twin with desmodromic valve gear, race-inspired |
| 860 GT | 1974–1979 | 864 | 90° L‑twin bevel-drive OHC, larger-capacity touring twin |
| 860 GTE | 1975–1978 | 864 | L‑twin touring variant, comfortable ergonomics for long rides |
| 900 SS | 1975–1979 | 864 | 90° L‑twin, sport-oriented big twin derived from 860 |
| 500SL Pantah | 1979–1982 | 500 | V‑twin with belt-driven cams, modern layout debut |
| Scrambler 350 | 1968–1974 | 350 | Single-cylinder OHC, lightweight dual-purpose machine |
| Scrambler 250 | 1968–1974 | 250 | Single-cylinder OHC, nimble beginner-friendly bike |
| 350 Mark 3 | 1968–1974 | 350 | Single-cylinder SOHC, sporting character and top‑end focus |
Images and Descriptions
750 GT
The 750 GT launched Ducati’s big-bike era in 1971. Its 748cc 90° V-twin with bevel-driven cams offered strong midrange and classic lines. Highly collectible as one of Ducati’s first roadgoing V-twins and a milestone in the brand’s history.
750 Sport
Ducati’s 750 Sport was a sharper, lighter take on the 750 platform with sport-tuned cams and nimble handling. Produced in small numbers, it appeals to collectors who want early Ducati performance with classic Italian styling and race-inspired setup.
750 SS
The 750 Super Sport (750 SS) is a rare, race-bred Ducati from the early 1970s featuring desmodromic valves and focused performance. Low-production and historically significant, it’s one of the most desirable early Ducati big twins for collectors.
860 GT
Introduced in 1974, the 860 GT stretched Ducati’s twin to roughly 864cc for better touring capability. Known for its heavier weight and controversial styling, it marked Ducati’s move toward larger displacement twins and is noted by collectors for its period significance.
860 GTE
The 860 GTE was a more comfort-oriented version of the 860 GT with touring touches and relaxed ergonomics. Popular with riders seeking vintage long-distance capability, it’s collectible for its place in Ducati’s mid‑70s expansion of road-touring twins.
900 SS
The 900 Super Sport took the larger Ducati twin and emphasized sportier performance and styling. Produced mid‑to‑late 1970s, it’s prized by enthusiasts for being a bridge between early bevel twins and later Ducati superbikes, with strong period character and rarity.
500SL Pantah
The 500SL “Pantah” debuted late in the decade, introducing Ducati’s belt-driven cam V‑twin architecture. As the prototype for later Pantah machines, the 500SL is historically important and collectible as the start of Ducati’s modern twin engine family.
Scrambler 350
Ducati’s 350 Scrambler was a versatile, lively single used on road and light off-road trails. Continued into the early 1970s, it remains popular with collectors for its approachable performance, iconic styling, and role in Ducati’s small-capacity lineup.
Scrambler 250
The 250 Scrambler offered entry-level, lightweight Ducati fun through the early 1970s. Its simple single-cylinder engine and classic scrambler looks make it desirable to collectors seeking attainable vintage Ducatis with strong period charm.
350 Mark 3
The 350 Mark 3 was a sporting single-cylinder model carried into the early 1970s, valued for its revvy nature and agility. Collectors appreciate it as an example of Ducati’s refined single-cylinder engineering before the brand’s twin-focused era.
