Ducati 400SSJunior (Half Fairing) (1991 – 98)

Ducati 400SSJunior (Half Fairing) (1991 - 98)

The Ducati 400SS Junior is an enigmatic machine that defies easy categorization. Weighing in at a mere 20kg less than its 750cc sibling, it’s clear that this bike was conceived as a low-risk, high-reward proposition for the Italian marque.

Despite its diminutive engine displacement of 398ccs, the Junior’s powerplant is essentially a sleeve-down version of the 750SS unit, complete with an identical crankshaft and bumped-up compression ratio. This raises questions about the bike’s overall performance capabilities, particularly in light of its somewhat soporific power-to-weight ratio.

However, it’s undeniable that the 400SS Junior has been carefully honed for optimal ergonomics, boasting a perfectly balanced arrangement of pegs, pedals, and controls that make for an extremely comfortable riding position. Whether you prefer to sit forward and upright or back and down with your bum nestled against the deeply curved seat, this bike is more than happy to oblige.

The result is a truly unique experience that’s equal parts thrilling and underwhelming. So if you’re in the market for a bike that will effortlessly transport you from point A to point B while delivering a healthy dose of Ducati’s signature style and panache, then look no further than the 400SS Junior – but be warned: its charms may not be enough to make up for its decidedly unremarkable performance.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, 90Ltwin cylinder, SOHC, desmodromic 2 valve per cylinder.
Engine Capacity398 cc / 24.3 cu in
Max Power30.9 kw / 42 hp
Fuel Tank Capacity17 L / 4.5 US gal / 3.7 Imp gal
Seat Height29.5 inches / 750 mm
Ducati 400SSJunior (Half Fairing) (1991 - 98)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelDucati 400SSJunior (Half Fairing)
Year1991 – 98

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, 90Ltwin cylinder, SOHC, desmodromic 2 valve per cylinder.
Displacement398 cc / 24.3 cu in
Bore x Stroke70.5 x 51 mm
Compression Ratio10.0:1
Max Horsepower30.9 kw / 42 hp
Engine Management SystemMikuni B79 carburetor
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speed180 km/h / 112 mph

Transmission

Gearbox6 Speed
Primary Drive Ratio2.264:1 (34/77)
Gear Ratios1 st 3.071 / 2nd 2.111 ./ 3rd 1.590 / 4th 1.280 / 5th 1.074 / 6th 0.931:1
Final DriveChain

Electrical & Electronics System

Battery12V 16Ah
StarterElectric

Chassis & Suspension

Front SuspensionMarzocchiinverted telescopic fork, 40USD/E
Rear SuspensionCantilever swingarm, Marzocchi PBS1R monoshock, preload and rebound damping

Wheels & Brakes

Front Tire Size130/60 VR17
Rear Tire Size160/60 VR17
Front BrakesSingle 320mm disc
Rear BrakesSingle 245 mm disc

Dimension & Weights

Overall Length2020 mm / 79.5 in
Overall Width730 mm / 28.7 in
Overall Height1110 mm / 43.7 in
Seat Height29.5 inches / 750 mm
Wheelbase55.5 inches / 1410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity17 L / 4.5 US gal / 3.7 Imp gal
Dry Weight173 kg / 381 lbs

Features

  • Ergonomically designed with spot-on peg-to-pedal and bar-to-lever angles and distances
  • Pegs positioned to tip rider forward onto the tank
  • Clip-ons rise from below the yoke for a huggable feel
  • Rearset pegs allow for flexibility in riding position
  • Short or long seat positions available
  • Too soft seat sets rock hard within 130 miles of riding
  • Elegant trellis frame with web of triangles around engine
  • Rigid and stressed frame design
  • Swing-arm pivots from the back of the gearbox
  • 25 degree head angle for agility
  • 90mm of trail for stability
  • 1410mm wheel-base on the lazy side for class
  • Wide 17-inch wheels with ultra-low profile Michelin A/M59X radials
  • Goldlinc Brembo brakes
  • Non-adjustable upside-down Showa front suspension
  • Overdamped Marzocchi rear shock
Ducati 400SSJunior (Half Fairing) (1991 - 98)

Know someone who’d find this useful? Share this page with a friend, your riding club or your favourite motorcycle community.

Explore our collection of Ducati motorcycles for detailed specifications and model information. Or browse all motorcycle manufacturers.


more Specifications