VS
The 1978 Ducati 900SS and 1973 BMW R90S are both iconic 1970s sportbikes that defined their respective markets.
The 1978 Ducati 900SS from Italy was powered by a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 70hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1973 BMW R90S, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 898cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 67hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 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 1978 Ducati 900SS from Italy was powered by a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 70hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1973 BMW R90S, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 898cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 67hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 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
| 1978 Ducati 900SS | 1973 BMW R90S | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 864 cc | 898 cc |
| Power | 70 hp | 67 hp |
| Torque | 64.0 Nm | 68.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1465 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1978 Ducati 900SS has the edge thanks to more power (70hp vs 67hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1973 BMW R90S, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1978 Ducati 900SS and good for the 1973 BMW R90S — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 →About the 1973 BMW R90S
The 1973 1973 BMW R90S packs a 898cc OHV flat-twin engine with 67hp into a sport bike package from BMW.
Full 1973 BMW R90S Profile →