BMW R90S
88/100 Overall
83 On the road93 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
BMW R90S vs Ducati 750 Super Sport
BMW R90S scores 88/100 overall against Ducati 750 Super Sport on 84/100. On the road: 83–68. As classics: 93–100. Overall result: BMW R90S.
Photo: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:MB-one / Freisteller von Auge=mit · CC BY-SA 4.0
Ducati 750 Super Sport
84/100 Overall
68 On the road100 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | BMW R90S | Ducati 750SS | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 9 | Ducati 750SS |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 8 | 10 | Ducati 750SS |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 7 | 8 | Ducati 750SS |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 9 | 6 | BMW R90S |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 9 | 4 | BMW R90S |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 4 | BMW R90S |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 9 | 10 | Ducati 750SS |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 10 | Ducati 750SS |
Choose the BMW R90S if…
you want high-speed touring ability, engineering quality and one of BMW's most significant sporting classics.
Choose the Ducati 750SS if…
you want one of Ducati's most important and valuable motorcycles, with beautiful engineering and direct racing ancestry.
Background
History
BMW R90S
The BMW R90S was produced from 1973–1976 and used a 898cc air-cooled opposed twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, collector appeal, reliability. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Ducati 750SS
The Ducati 750 Super Sport was produced from 1974 and used a 748cc air-cooled desmodromic L-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.
Interesting details
Did you know?
BMW R90S
- Its production span in this library runs from 1973 to 1976.
- The recorded engine description is: 898cc air-cooled opposed twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, collector appeal, reliability.
Ducati 750SS
- This model is listed here for 1974.
- The recorded engine description is: 748cc air-cooled desmodromic L-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, handling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
BMW R90S
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the BMW R90S. 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 750SS
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Ducati 750 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.
Before you buy
Buying checks
BMW R90S
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- 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 750SS
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- 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 BMW R90S
Rivals to the Ducati 750SS
Final result
The verdict
BMW R90S wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Ducati 750 Super Sport wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. BMW R90S takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.