VS
The 1979 Ducati MHR 900 and 1973 BMW R90S are both iconic 1970s sportbikes that defined their respective markets.
The 1979 Ducati MHR 900 from Italy was powered by a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 72hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 192.0kg (423 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 1979 Ducati MHR 900 from Italy was powered by a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 72hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 192.0kg (423 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
| 1979 Ducati MHR 900 | 1973 BMW R90S | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 864 cc | 898 cc |
| Power | 72 hp | 67 hp |
| Torque | 66.0 Nm | 68.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 192.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 207.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1465 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 has the edge thanks to more power (72hp 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 1979 Ducati MHR 900 and good for the 1973 BMW R90S — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 →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 →