VS
The 1982 Suzuki GS650 Katana and 1978 Ducati 900SS both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1982 Suzuki GS650 Katana from Japan was powered by a 673cc DOHC inline-4 producing 72hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 206.0kg (454 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1978 Ducati 900SS, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin bevel power, delivering 70hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 185.0kg (408 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1982 Suzuki GS650 Katana from Japan was powered by a 673cc DOHC inline-4 producing 72hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 206.0kg (454 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1978 Ducati 900SS, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin bevel power, delivering 70hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 185.0kg (408 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1982 Suzuki GS650 Katana | 1978 Ducati 900SS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 673 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 72 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 56.0 Nm | 64.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 206.0 kg | 185.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 224.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -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 1982 Suzuki GS650 Katana, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. For collectors, the 1978 Ducati 900SS commands more attention with a 8/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1982 Suzuki GS650 Katana
Suzuki released the 1982 Suzuki GS650 Katana in 1982 with a 673cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 72hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1982 Suzuki GS650 Katana Profile →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 →