Ducati 900 SS Darmah vs Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH (1981)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Ducati 900 SS Darmahstacks up against the Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecDucati 900 SS DarmahHarley-Davidson Sportster XLCH
Model year19811968
Price
Engine864 cc883 cc
Horsepower65 hp55 hp
Fuel capacity4.2 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed
Front brakesDual discExpanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesSingle discExpanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3.50-18 / 4.25/85-18

Ducati 900 SS Darmah vs Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH — which should you buy?

Picking between the Ducati 900 SS Darmah and the Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Ducati 900 SS Darmah brings 65 hp, while the Harley-Davidson Sportster XLCH counters with 55 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: