Crocker Big Twin
79/100 Overall
57 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Crocker Big Twin vs Ducati 900 SD Darmah
Crocker Big Twin scores 79/100 overall against Ducati 900 SD Darmah on 83/100. On the road: 57–70. As classics: 100–95. Overall result: Ducati 900 SD Darmah.
Ducati 900 SD Darmah
83/100 Overall
70 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Crocker V-Twin | Ducati Darmah | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 8 | Ducati Darmah |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 4 | 7 | Ducati Darmah |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 2 | 6 | Ducati Darmah |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Crocker V-Twin |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Crocker V-Twin |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Crocker V-Twin if…
you want one of America's rarest and most coveted performance motorcycles, with exceptional engineering and mystique.
Choose the Ducati Darmah if…
you want charismatic bevel-drive Ducati performance with more comfort and practicality than the 900 Super Sport.
Background
History
Crocker V-Twin
The Crocker Big Twin was produced from 1936–1942 and used a air-cooled overhead-valve V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Ducati Darmah
The Ducati 900 SD Darmah was produced from 1977–1982 and used a 864cc air-cooled bevel-drive V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, character, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Crocker V-Twin
- Its production span in this library runs from 1936 to 1942.
- The recorded engine description is: air-cooled overhead-valve V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Ducati Darmah
- Its production span in this library runs from 1977 to 1982.
- The recorded engine description is: 864cc air-cooled bevel-drive V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, character, historic importance.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Crocker V-Twin
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Crocker Big Twin. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Ducati Darmah
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Ducati 900 SD Darmah. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Crocker V-Twin
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Ducati Darmah
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Crocker V-Twin
Rivals to the Ducati Darmah
Final result
The verdict
Ducati 900 SD Darmah wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Crocker Big Twin wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Ducati 900 SD Darmah takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.