1979 Ducati MHR 900

1979 Ducati MHR 900

A sport bike from 1979, the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 delivers 72hp from its 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel engine.

Specifications

Engine

Type
SOHC L-twin bevel
Displacement
864 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
72 hp @ 7500 rpm
Torque
66.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
86.0 × 74.4 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Dell'Orto carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel tube trellis
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Dual disc
Rear Brake
Single disc
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
210 km/h (130 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
192 kg (423 lbs)
Wet Weight
207 kg (456 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1440 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
18.0 L

History & Story

When Ducati unveiled the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 in 1979, it signaled the company's commitment to the sport bike segment. Built in Italy, this sport bike embodied the spirit of 1970s motorcycling.

The 1979 Ducati MHR 900 is motivated by a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel twin-cylinder unit delivering 72hp at 7500 rpm. Breathing through 2x Dell'Orto carburetors and kept cool by air-cooled, the engine drives through a 5-speed transmission with chain final drive.

Built around a steel tube trellis frame, the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 suspends its 192 kg (423 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on dual disc at the front and single disc at the rear, with a 1440 mm wheelbase providing stability.

Performance-wise, the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 achieves a claimed top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 18.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for sport bike duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 is considered a highly sought-after classic that commands strong prices among collectors worldwide. Parts availability is rated as moderate, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Ducati motorcycling from 1970s.

Known Issues

  • Desmo valve adjustment requires specialist knowledge
  • Bevel gear tower maintenance critical
  • Electrical system (early models use basic components)
  • Dry clutch rattle at idle (character, not defect)

Fun Facts

  • Pristine examples of the 1979 Ducati MHR 900 can command six-figure prices at auction
  • The 1979 Ducati MHR 900 is considered one of the most collectible motorcycles from Ducati
  • The 1979 Ducati MHR 900 is widely regarded as a milestone in motorcycle history

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Moderate
Collector Rating
9/10

Resources & Parts