Kawasaki H2 750 Mach IV
80/100 Overall
62 On the road98 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Kawasaki H2 750 Mach IV vs Ducati 750 Super Sport
Kawasaki H2 750 Mach IV scores 80/100 overall against Ducati 750 Super Sport on 84/100. On the road: 62–68. As classics: 98–100. Overall result: Ducati 750 Super Sport.
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 | Kawasaki H2 | Ducati 750SS | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 10 | 9 | Kawasaki H2 |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 5 | 10 | Ducati 750SS |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 5 | 8 | Ducati 750SS |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 6 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 6 | 4 | Kawasaki H2 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 5 | 4 | Kawasaki H2 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 9 | 10 | Ducati 750SS |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 10 | Level |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 10 | Level |
Choose the Kawasaki H2 if…
you want explosive two-stroke acceleration, notorious 1970s superbike attitude and maximum theatre.
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
Kawasaki H2
The Kawasaki H2 750 Mach IV was produced from 1972–1975 and used a 748cc air-cooled two-stroke triple. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for performance, historic importance, collector appeal. 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?
Kawasaki H2
- Its production span in this library runs from 1972 to 1975.
- The recorded engine description is: 748cc air-cooled two-stroke triple.
- Its strongest comparison scores are performance, historic importance, collector appeal.
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
Kawasaki H2
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Kawasaki H2 750 Mach IV. Its library score for performance 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
Kawasaki H2
- 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.
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 Kawasaki H2
Rivals to the Ducati 750SS
Final result
The verdict
Ducati 750 Super Sport wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Ducati 750 Super Sport wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Ducati 750 Super Sport takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.