The 1992 Honda NR750 from Japan was powered by a 748cc DOHC V-4 oval pistons producing 125hp at 14000rpm. Weighing 222.0kg (489 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1996 Ducati ST2, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 944cc of SOHC L-twin power, delivering 78hp at 7250rpm. Tipping the scales at 212.0kg (467 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1990s motorcycles represent peak analog engineering before electronics took over. Original, low-mileage examples are beginning to appreciate.
Specifications Comparison
| 1992 Honda NR750 | 1996 Ducati ST2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 748 cc | 944 cc |
| Power | 125 hp | 78 hp |
| Torque | 69.0 Nm | 75.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 222.0 kg | 212.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 240.0 kg | 230.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 20.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1992 Honda NR750 is built for aggressive cornering and track-day performance, while the 1996 Ducati ST2 targets long-distance touring with passenger comfort. On paper, the 1992 Honda NR750's 125hp trumps the 1996 Ducati ST2's 78hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1992 Honda NR750 if you value aggressive cornering and track-day performance; pick the 1996 Ducati ST2 for long-distance touring with passenger comfort. Parts availability is very difficult for the 1992 Honda NR750 and good for the 1996 Ducati ST2 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1992 Honda NR750
The 1992 1992 Honda NR750 packs a 748cc DOHC V-4 oval pistons engine with 125hp into a sport bike package from Honda.
Full 1992 Honda NR750 Profile →About the 1996 Ducati ST2
The 1996 1996 Ducati ST2 packs a 944cc SOHC L-twin engine with 78hp into a touring motorcycle package from Ducati.
Full 1996 Ducati ST2 Profile →