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The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo and 1975 Ducati 860GT are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo from Japan was powered by a 738cc 2-stroke triple producing 67hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 235.0kg (518 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1975 Ducati 860GT, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin power, delivering 65hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo from Japan was powered by a 738cc 2-stroke triple producing 67hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 235.0kg (518 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1975 Ducati 860GT, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin power, delivering 65hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo | 1975 Ducati 860GT | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 738 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 67 hp | 65 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 62.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 3 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 235.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 255.0 kg | 226.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1460 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1975 Ducati 860GT has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. For collectors, the 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo
The 1971 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo packs a 738cc 2-stroke triple engine with 67hp into a touring motorcycle package from Suzuki.
Full 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo Profile →About the 1975 Ducati 860GT
The 1975 1975 Ducati 860GT is a 864cc twin-cylinder touring motorcycle that became one of Ducati's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1975 Ducati 860GT Profile →