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The 1979 Ducati MHR 900 and 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL represent two chapters in Ducati's storied history.
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 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 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 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
| 1979 Ducati MHR 900 | 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 864 cc | 649 cc |
| Power | 72 hp | 56 hp |
| Torque | 66.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 192.0 kg | 168.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 207.0 kg | 183.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 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 1979 Ducati MHR 900 laid the groundwork with 72hp, while the later 1986 Ducati Pantah 650SL pushed output to 56hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Ducati collection.
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 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 →