Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide
77/100 Overall
58 On the road95 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide vs Ducati 900 SD Darmah
Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide scores 77/100 overall against Ducati 900 SD Darmah on 83/100. On the road: 58–70. As classics: 95–95. 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 | Harley-Davidson Super Glide | Ducati Darmah | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 5 | 8 | Ducati Darmah |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 6 | 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. | 5 | 6 | Ducati Darmah |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 6 | Harley-Davidson Super Glide |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 7 | 7 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Ducati Darmah |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Harley-Davidson Super Glide |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 9 | 9 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Harley-Davidson Super Glide if…
you want the original factory custom concept, lighter Harley road manners and unmistakable Shovelhead character.
Choose the Ducati Darmah if…
you want charismatic bevel-drive Ducati performance with more comfort and practicality than the 900 Super Sport.
Background
History
Harley-Davidson Super Glide
The Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide was produced from 1971–1984 and used a Air-cooled 45-degree Shovelhead V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for character, historic importance and collector appeal. It is included as an important reference point for comparisons with its closest period rivals.
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?
Harley-Davidson Super Glide
- Its production span in this library runs from 1971 to 1984.
- The recorded engine description is: Air-cooled 45-degree Shovelhead V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are character, historic importance and 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
Harley-Davidson Super Glide
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Harley-Davidson FX Super Glide. 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.
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
Harley-Davidson Super Glide
- 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.
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 Harley-Davidson Super Glide
Rivals to the Ducati Darmah
Final result
The verdict
Ducati 900 SD Darmah wins the direct on-the-road comparison. As classic motorcycles they also finish level. Ducati 900 SD Darmah takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.