A further attempt by the factory to introduce a more exclusive and hence higher priced model, the 650 Formula was intended as a road legal race bike, based on the 650 I.E.  Supplied in black only, these bikes had performance modifications made to improve top speed, particularly hotter cams, as well as a number of carbon fibre fittings and Lanfranconi exhausts, skinned in carbon fibre.  Racing Termignoni's were also available.  Unfortunately, the engine tuning changes make the bike a far less civilised package at lower speeds and many reviewers commented at the time that they had a power output profile very similar to that of two stroke motors.  Early Formulas have fibreglass fairing parts, later bikes have plastic.

These bikes suffered from the poorer quality Tognon era engine castings and are fitted with the Ducati regulators.  They also had the expansion box exhaust system, so would benefit from the later X piece.

© Steve Carr, 2001-2007

Site created February, 2000.  Last modified Friday, May 15, 2009

Last updated
30 May 2005