Photo: Yesterdays Antique Motorcycles · CC BY-SA 4.0
Ducati 900 Super Sport
85/100 Overall
70 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Ducati 900 Super Sport vs Kawasaki KH400
Ducati 900 Super Sport scores 85/100 overall against Kawasaki KH400 on 81/100. On the road: 70–67. As classics: 100–95. Overall result: Ducati 900 Super Sport.
Photo: PSParrot from England · CC BY 2.0
Kawasaki KH400
81/100 Overall
67 On the road95 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Ducati 900SS | Kawasaki KH400 | 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. | 10 | 7 | Ducati 900SS |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 9 | 7 | Ducati 900SS |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 5 | 6 | Kawasaki KH400 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 4 | 6 | Kawasaki KH400 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | Ducati 900SS |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Ducati 900SS |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Ducati 900SS if…
you prioritise focused sporting handling, Italian design and an exceptionally involving bevel-Ducati experience.
Choose the Kawasaki KH400 if…
you want charismatic Kawasaki triple-cylinder performance in a more manageable package than the larger Mach models.
Background
History
Ducati 900SS
The Ducati 900 Super Sport was produced from 1975–1982 and used a 864cc air-cooled bevel-drive 90-degree V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, handling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Kawasaki KH400
The Kawasaki KH400 was produced from 1976–1978 and used a 400cc air-cooled two-stroke triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for collector appeal, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Ducati 900SS
- Its production span in this library runs from 1975 to 1982.
- The recorded engine description is: 864cc air-cooled bevel-drive 90-degree V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, handling.
Kawasaki KH400
- Its production span in this library runs from 1976 to 1978.
- The recorded engine description is: 400cc air-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are collector appeal, character, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Ducati 900SS
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Ducati 900 Super Sport. 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.
Kawasaki KH400
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki KH400. Its library score for collector appeal 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
Ducati 900SS
- 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.
Kawasaki KH400
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- 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 Ducati 900SS
Rivals to the Kawasaki KH400
Final result
The verdict
Ducati 900 Super Sport wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Ducati 900 Super Sport wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Ducati 900 Super Sport takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.