VS
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 and 1978 Ducati 900SS both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc DOHC twin producing 60hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 173.0kg (381 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 1987 Kawasaki EX500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc DOHC twin producing 60hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 173.0kg (381 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
| 1987 Kawasaki EX500 | 1978 Ducati 900SS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 60 hp | 70 hp |
| Torque | 44.0 Nm | 64.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 173.0 kg | 185.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 189.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 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 60hp) and a higher top speed. The 1987 Kawasaki EX500, 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. Parts availability is good for the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 and moderate for the 1978 Ducati 900SS — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1987 Kawasaki EX500
Kawasaki released the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 in 1987 with a 498cc DOHC twin powerplant making 60hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1987 Kawasaki EX500 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 →