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Sport touring · 1979

500 Pantah

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MotoLibrary Score
50 /100 Balanced
Power
50 HP
Top Speed
178 km/h
Engine
497 ccm

1979 Ducati 500 Pantah Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Positioned in Ducati's sport touring motorcycle lineup, the 1979 Ducati 500 Pantah relies on a 497 cc (30.3 cu in) air-cooled v2, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 50 HP (36.5 kW) at 8,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 100.6 HP per liter, the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.

On the scales, the 500 Pantah measures 201 kg (443 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.25 HP/kg (4.02 kg per horsepower). The 18-liter (4.8 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 178 km/h (111 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Ducati archive, this model family spans 3 indexed model years from 1978 to 1980, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.

Specific Output
100.6 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.25 HP/kg (4.02 kg/HP)
Engine
Displacement 497.0 ccm (30.33 cubic inches)
Engine Type V2, four-stroke
Engine Details V2, four-stroke
Power 50.0 HP (36.5 kW)) @ 8500 RPM
Compression 9.5:1
Bore x Stroke 74.0 x 57.8 mm (2.9 x 2.3 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 2
Fuel Control Desmodromic valve control
Cooling Air
Transmission
Gearbox 5-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed 178.0 km/h (110.6 mph)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre 3.25-18
Rear Tyre 3.50-18
Front Brakes Dual disc
Rear Brakes Single disc
Dimensions & Weight
Weight incl. 201.0 kg (443.1 pounds)
Fuel Capacity 18.00 litres (4.76 US gallons)
More from Ducati
Buying Checklist

Before You Compare This Bike

Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.

Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟡
Intermediate
Requires some riding experience.
🗺️
Best For
Long Distance Touring
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