500 Pantah

Towards the end of the 70s, one of the most innovative Ducati models, the Pantah 500, went into production.

Taglioni realised that it was time to combine the performance of the twin-cylinder with the agility of the newly conceived trellis frame.

Together with Gianluigi Mengoli, Taglioni took the next evolutionary step with the L-shaped twin, implementing a two-valve desmodromic system controlled via a rubber timing belt rather than the bevel gear system.

The new trellis frame, to which the engine was firmly fixed, made for a more agile and manageable motorcycle.

And it was with this model that a new generation of sports bike was born at Ducati. The Pantah 500 signalled both the end of government control and the start of a new era for Ducati.

Essentially, the premises that would see the firm transform into one of the world’s best-known brands were all there. Design, performance, iconic style, an unmistakeable sound, a characteristic frame layout and generous power delivery – everything that makes up the heart of every Ducati.