Ducati twins · 1974–1979
Ducati 860 GT, GTE and GTS: history and buying advice
The angular touring Ducati drawn by Giugiaro.
History
The 860 GT arrived in 1974 as the successor to the 750 GT. The engine got the square crankcases and a capacity of 864 cc. The look came from car designer Giorgetto Giugiaro: an angular tank and big steel side panels. Fans of the round-case 750s were shocked, and sales were disappointing.
So for 1976 it was restyled as the 860 GTS. The GTE already had an electric starter in 1974; from 1976 all models had one. In the last years it was called the 900 GTS. For America the gear pedal was on the left, with a linkage to the other side.
Key data
| Engine | 90° V-twin, bevel shafts, square cases |
|---|---|
| Bore × stroke | 86 × 74.4 mm, 864 cc |
| Compression | 9,9:1 |
| Power | c. 57–60 hp |
| Gears | five |
| Top speed | c. 175 km/h |
| Weight | 185 kg dry |
What to check when buying
- GT, GTE or GTS? The GTS has a different tank and side panels from the Giugiaro GT.
- Many 860s have been converted into a ‘900 SS’ replica or café racer. An original 860 is becoming ever rarer.
- Listen to the bevel shafts and look for oil leaks at the tubes and valve covers.
- On American examples with the gear linkage to the left: check the play in the linkage.
- Check the electric starter and the charging.
- Compare the frame and engine numbers with the papers.
SourcesWikipedia: Ducati 860 GT (English)Rider Magazine: Ducati 860 GT and GTE (English)