VS
The 1974 Ducati 750SS Green Frame and 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 are both iconic 1970s sportbikes that defined their respective markets.
The 1974 Ducati 750SS Green Frame from Italy was powered by a 748cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 70hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 188.0kg (414 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 by contrast offered 844cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 71hp at 7300rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 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 1974 Ducati 750SS Green Frame from Italy was powered by a 748cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 70hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 188.0kg (414 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 by contrast offered 844cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 71hp at 7300rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 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
| 1974 Ducati 750SS Green Frame | 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 748 cc | 844 cc |
| Power | 70 hp | 71 hp |
| Torque | 60.0 Nm | 64.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 188.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 202.0 kg | 226.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two sportbikes are remarkably well-matched. With 70hp versus 71hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference. Parts availability is difficult for the 1974 Ducati 750SS Green Frame and moderate for the 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1974 Ducati 750SS Green Frame
The 1974 1974 Ducati 750SS Green Frame is a 748cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Ducati's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1974 Ducati 750SS Green Frame Profile →About the 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850
Moto Guzzi released the 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 in 1976 with a 844cc OHV V-twin powerplant making 71hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 Profile →