Ducati 900SS

Ducati's 900SS is one of the firm's longest running models, and one of its most successful. Originally developed as an 860cc version of the bevel-drive 750SS, the first 900SS appeared in 1975, and was instantly popular. The early bike's basic principles of low weight, narrow chassis and sporting performance have stayed true to the latest version of the 900SS, first launched in 1998.

This 900SS uses the 904cc belt-drive engine common to all Ducati's current air-cooled 900s, including the Monster and the MH900. Single overhead camshaft desmo heads have two valves per cylinder, and the 900SS gained a fuel-injection system in 1998. While not very powerful compared with more modern Japanese designs, the 900SS motor provides very satisfying performance, the strong low-down torque delivery firing the rider out of bends like a slingshot, and the carburation is flawless throughout the rev range, right up to the redline.

The chassis, too, is a capable performer, despite its rather dated appearance. The welded steel-tube trellis frame is very stiff and light, while a simple cantilever rear monoshock and upside-down front forks give compliant, accomplished handling and good Ground Clearance. The low all-up weight of 188kg (4141b) and narrow dimensions help here too.

The most recent 1998 redesign was the responsibility of Ducati's design chief, Pierre Terblanche.

The new full fairing gave more modern looks than the previous design, and in addition a host of chassis modifications improved handling, although weight did increase slightly. New Brembo brakes and Showa forks came from the ST2 design, and a longer rear shock further improved the handling of this bike.

The engine was also overhauled in 1998, with new flywheel, different camshafts and modified pistons and cylinders, as well as the Weber-Marelli fuel-injection system. The fuel-injection allowed cleaner, more efficient running, while also increasing power.

Styling:

·        updated graphics with model logo more boldly highlighted on the fairing (as seen in the Superbike family for the Model Year 1999)

·        shield with the “Ducati - Supersport” logo on top of the fuel tank,

·        a plate with the “Ducati” logo under the headlight,

·        disc brakes with new design aluminium carriers.

·        Brembo three hollow spoke wheels and frame in racing gun-metal grey 

Fittings:

·        protective treatment with double transparent layer on the fairing. 

Ergonomics and comfort:

·        handlebars raised by 12 mm,

·        higher and more protective Plexiglas windscreen,

·        thinner neoprene tank protection.

·        Brembo PSC 12 clutch master cylinder with a more favourable hydraulic ratio. 

Chassis:

·        Showa adjustable front fork,

·        Showa adjustable rear shock absorber,

·        rear swinging arm in aluminium,

·        tires in sizes 120-70/17 and 170-60/17. 

Safety:

·        320mm Brembo front disc brakes with new carrier,

·        Brembo P4 30-34 front calipers with 4 pistons and new PSC 16 master cylinder with radial technology,

·        steel braided brake lines,

·        brake pads in sintered high friction material,

·        side stand without automatic return, with fully extended lock and anti engine start sensor.