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The 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo and 1978 Ducati 900SS 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 1978 Ducati 900SS by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin bevel power, delivering 70hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 185.0kg (408 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 1978 Ducati 900SS by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin bevel power, delivering 70hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 185.0kg (408 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 | 1978 Ducati 900SS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 436 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 35 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 33.0 Nm | 64.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 153.0 kg | 185.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 165.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1390 mm | 1430 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 1978 Ducati 900SS pushed output to 70hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1978 Ducati 900SS holds the edge with a 8/10 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 1978 Ducati 900SS
Introduced in 1978, the 1978 Ducati 900SS features a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel engine producing 70hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1978 Ducati 900SS Profile →