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The 1971 Ducati 450 Desmo and 1979 Ducati MHR 900 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 1979 Ducati MHR 900 by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin bevel power, delivering 72hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 192.0kg (423 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 1979 Ducati MHR 900 by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin bevel power, delivering 72hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 192.0kg (423 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 | 1979 Ducati MHR 900 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 436 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 35 hp | 72 hp |
| Torque | 33.0 Nm | 66.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 153.0 kg | 192.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 165.0 kg | 207.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1390 mm | 1440 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 1979 Ducati MHR 900 pushed output to 72hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 holds the edge with a 9/10 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 1979 Ducati MHR 900
A sport bike from 1979, the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 delivers 72hp from its 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel engine.
Full 1979 Ducati MHR 900 Profile →