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The 1972 Honda CB350 Four and 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 436cc of SOHC single desmo power, delivering 35hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 153.0kg (337 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 436cc of SOHC single desmo power, delivering 35hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 153.0kg (337 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1972 Honda CB350 Four | 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 436 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 35 hp |
| Torque | 28.0 Nm | 33.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 153.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 165.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1375 mm | 1390 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo has the edge thanks to more power (35hp vs 34hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1972 Honda CB350 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1972 Honda CB350 Four and moderate for the 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1972 Honda CB350 Four
Honda released the 1972 Honda CB350 Four in 1972 with a 347cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 34hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1972 Honda CB350 Four Profile →About the 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo
A standard motorcycle from 1971, the 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo delivers 35hp from its 436cc SOHC single desmo engine.
Full 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo Profile →