VS
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS and 1978 Ducati 900SS both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS from Japan was powered by a 347cc 2-stroke twin YPVS producing 59hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 141.0kg (311 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, 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 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS from Japan was powered by a 347cc 2-stroke twin YPVS producing 59hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 141.0kg (311 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, 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
| 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS | 1978 Ducati 900SS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 59 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 37.0 Nm | 64.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 141.0 kg | 185.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 155.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1355 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 more power (70hp vs 59hp) and a higher top speed. The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority.
About the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS
The 1985 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS is a 347cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS 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 →