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The 1978 Ducati 900SS and 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL represent two chapters in Ducati's storied history.
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 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL by contrast offered 649cc of SOHC L-twin belt power, delivering 56hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 168.0kg (370 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 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 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL by contrast offered 649cc of SOHC L-twin belt power, delivering 56hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 168.0kg (370 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
| 1978 Ducati 900SS | 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 864 cc | 649 cc |
| Power | 70 hp | 56 hp |
| Torque | 64.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 168.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 183.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Ducati machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1978 Ducati 900SS laid the groundwork with 70hp, while the later 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL pushed output to 56hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1978 Ducati 900SS holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Ducati collection.
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 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL
The 1986 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL is a 649cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Ducati's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL Profile →