Classic motorcycle head-to-head

Ducati 900 Super Sport vs Triumph TR6 Trophy

Ducati 900 Super Sport scores 85/100 overall against Triumph TR6 Trophy on 81/100. On the road: 70–68. As classics: 100–93. Overall result: Ducati 900 Super Sport.

The numbers

Category-by-category result

CategoryDucati 900SSTriumph TR6Advantage
road
PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field.87Ducati 900SS
HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners.108Ducati 900SS
BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance.95Ducati 900SS
ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained.66Level
Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge.58Triumph TR6
ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys.47Triumph TR6
classic
StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal.109Ducati 900SS
Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era.109Ducati 900SS
Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts.109Ducati 900SS
CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience.1010Level

Choose the Ducati 900SS if…

you prioritise focused sporting handling, Italian design and an exceptionally involving bevel-Ducati experience.

Choose the Triumph TR6 if…

you want strong single-carburettor Triumph performance, handsome styling and authentic 1960s British-twin character.

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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.

Triumph TR6

The Triumph TR6 Trophy was produced from 1956–1973 and used a 649cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, styling, historic importance. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.

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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.

Triumph TR6

  • Its production span in this library runs from 1956 to 1973.
  • The recorded engine description is: 649cc air-cooled parallel twin.
  • Its strongest comparison scores are character, styling, historic importance.
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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.

Triumph TR6

Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Triumph TR6 Trophy. Its library score for character 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.

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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.

Triumph TR6

  • Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
  • Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
  • Check vibration-related fasteners, primary drive condition and signs of persistent oil leakage.
  • 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

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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.

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