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 Norton Commando 750
Ducati 900 Super Sport scores 85/100 overall against Norton Commando 750 on 83/100. On the road: 70–68. As classics: 100–98. Overall result: Ducati 900 Super Sport.
Photo: Yesterdays Antique Motorcycles · CC BY-SA 4.0
Norton Commando 750
83/100 Overall
68 On the road98 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Ducati 900SS | Norton Commando 750 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 7 | Ducati 900SS |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 10 | 8 | Ducati 900SS |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 9 | 6 | Ducati 900SS |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 5 | Ducati 900SS |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 5 | 8 | Norton Commando 750 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 4 | 7 | Norton Commando 750 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Ducati 900SS |
| 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 Norton Commando 750 if…
you want the original Commando experience, combining Isolastic smoothness, strong road performance and iconic British styling.
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.
Norton Commando 750
The Norton Commando 750 was produced from 1968–1973 and used a 745cc air-cooled parallel twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, historic importance and styling. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
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.
Norton Commando 750
- Its production span in this library runs from 1968 to 1973.
- The recorded engine description is: 745cc air-cooled parallel twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, historic importance and 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.
Norton Commando 750
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Norton Commando 750. 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.
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.
Norton Commando 750
- 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 or final-drive condition, charging output, engine mounts and signs of persistent 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
Rivals to the Ducati 900SS
Rivals to the Norton Commando 750
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.