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The 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo and 1977 Ducati 900GTS represent two chapters in Ducati's storied history.
The 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo from Italy was powered by a 436cc SOHC single desmo producing 35hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 153.0kg (337 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1977 Ducati 900GTS by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin power, delivering 67hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 195km/h (121 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 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo from Italy was powered by a 436cc SOHC single desmo producing 35hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 153.0kg (337 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1977 Ducati 900GTS by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin power, delivering 67hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 195km/h (121 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
| 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo | 1977 Ducati 900GTS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 436 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 35 hp | 67 hp |
| Torque | 33.0 Nm | 64.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h | 195 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 153.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 165.0 kg | 231.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Ducati machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo laid the groundwork with 35hp, while the later 1977 Ducati 900GTS pushed output to 67hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Ducati collection.
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 →About the 1977 Ducati 900GTS
The 1977 1977 Ducati 900GTS packs a 864cc SOHC L-twin engine with 67hp into a touring motorcycle package from Ducati.
Full 1977 Ducati 900GTS Profile →