VS
The 1978 Ducati 900SS and 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 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 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 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 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
| 1978 Ducati 900SS | 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 864 cc | 844 cc |
| Power | 70 hp | 71 hp |
| Torque | 64.0 Nm | 64.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 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
For pure sportbike performance, the 1978 Ducati 900SS has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1976 Moto Guzzi Le Mans 850, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority.
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 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 →