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The 1986 Honda VFR750F and 1988 Ducati 851 are both iconic 1980s sportbikes that defined their respective markets.
The 1986 Honda VFR750F from Japan was powered by a 748cc DOHC V-4 producing 105hp at 11000rpm. Weighing 209.0kg (461 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1988 Ducati 851, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 851cc of DOHC L-twin 4-valve Desmo power, delivering 102hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 186.0kg (410 lbs) with a top speed of 245km/h (152 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 1986 Honda VFR750F from Japan was powered by a 748cc DOHC V-4 producing 105hp at 11000rpm. Weighing 209.0kg (461 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1988 Ducati 851, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 851cc of DOHC L-twin 4-valve Desmo power, delivering 102hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 186.0kg (410 lbs) with a top speed of 245km/h (152 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
| 1986 Honda VFR750F | 1988 Ducati 851 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 748 cc | 851 cc |
| Power | 105 hp | 102 hp |
| Torque | 66.0 Nm | 82.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/h | 245 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 209.0 kg | 186.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 228.0 kg | 202.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1988 Ducati 851 has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1986 Honda VFR750F, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. For collectors, the 1988 Ducati 851 commands more attention with a 9/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1986 Honda VFR750F and moderate for the 1988 Ducati 851 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1986 Honda VFR750F
A sport bike from 1986, the 1986 Honda VFR750F delivers 105hp from its 748cc DOHC V-4 engine.
Full 1986 Honda VFR750F Profile →About the 1988 Ducati 851
The 1988 1988 Ducati 851 packs a 851cc DOHC L-twin 4-valve Desmo engine with 102hp into a sport bike package from Ducati.
Full 1988 Ducati 851 Profile →