VS
The 1979 Ducati MHR 900 and 1977 MV Agusta 850SS Monza 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 1977 MV Agusta 850SS Monza by contrast offered 837cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 78hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 1977 MV Agusta 850SS Monza by contrast offered 837cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 78hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 225.0kg (496 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 | 1977 MV Agusta 850SS Monza | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 864 cc | 837 cc |
| Power | 72 hp | 78 hp |
| Torque | 66.0 Nm | 68.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 192.0 kg | 225.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 207.0 kg | 244.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1977 MV Agusta 850SS Monza has the edge thanks to more power (78hp vs 72hp) and a higher top speed. The 1979 Ducati MHR 900, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. Parts availability is moderate for the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 and very difficult for the 1977 MV Agusta 850SS Monza — 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 1977 MV Agusta 850SS Monza
The 1977 1977 MV Agusta 850SS Monza is a 837cc four-cylinder sport bike that became one of MV Agusta's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1977 MV Agusta 850SS Monza Profile →