VS
The 1979 Yamaha XS1100 and 1975 Ducati 860GT are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1979 Yamaha XS1100 from Japan was powered by a 1101cc DOHC inline-4 producing 95hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 268.0kg (591 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, 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 1979 Yamaha XS1100 from Japan was powered by a 1101cc DOHC inline-4 producing 95hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 268.0kg (591 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, 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
| 1979 Yamaha XS1100 | 1975 Ducati 860GT | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1101 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 95 hp | 65 hp |
| Torque | 89.0 Nm | 62.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 268.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 290.0 kg | 226.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 22.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 has the edge thanks to more power (95hp vs 65hp) and a higher top speed. The 1975 Ducati 860GT, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package.
About the 1979 Yamaha XS1100
Introduced in 1979, the 1979 Yamaha XS1100 features a 1101cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 95hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.
Full 1979 Yamaha XS1100 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 →