Ducati 900 SD Darmah (1977 – 78)

Ducati900 SD Darmah (1977 - 78)

The Ducati 900 SD Darmah is a true thoroughbred motorcycle, embodying the spirit of Italian craftsmanship and innovation.

Its 90L twin-cylinder engine, with its distinctive bevel gear-driven design, produces effortless power and agility, much like the fierce tiger that inspired its name. With its longitudinally-mounted 863.9cc vee-twin engine, offset to one side for optimal weight distribution, this bike delivers a unique riding experience.

While its 65bhp output may not match some Japanese rivals, the Darmah’s light weight and excellent balance make it a formidable performer on twisty roads, with top speeds reaching over 115mph and standing quarter-mile times under 13 seconds. Fuel efficiency is also exceptional, averaging between 45-50mpg.

The Ducati 900 SD Darmah is an integral work of art, where the engine seamlessly integrates into the frame to provide unparalleled handling and roadholding capabilities. Its Italian heritage shines through in every detail, from the Brembo discs and Ceriani forks to the Campagnolo wheels and sleek styling under Leo Tartarini’s design guidance.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, 90Ltwin cylinder, SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder, bevel gear driven
Engine Capacity864 cc / 52.7 cu in
Max Power47.8 kw / 65 hp
Fuel Tank Capacity15 L / 4.0 US gal / 3.3 Imp gal
Weight (Wet/Kerb)494 lbs / 224 kg
Seat Height30.7 inches / 780 mm
Ducati900 SD Darmah (1977 - 78)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelDucati900 SD Darmah
Year1977 – 78

Engine

Engine TypeFour stroke, 90Ltwin cylinder, SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder, bevel gear driven
Displacement864 cc / 52.7 cu in
Bore x Stroke86 x 74.4 mm
Compression Ratio9.4:1
Max Horsepower47.8 kw / 65 hp
Engine Management System2 x Dell’Orto PHM 40 A, B or C carburetors
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speed185 km/h / 114mph

Transmission

ClutchWet, multiplate
Gearbox5 Speed
Primary Drive Ratio2.187:1 (32/70)
Gear Ratios1st 2.237 / 2nd 1.562 / 3rd 1.203 / 4th 1.000 / 5th 0.887
Final DriveChain

Electrical & Electronics System

BatteryYuasa B68 36Ah
StarterElectric and Kick

Chassis & Suspension

Front Suspension38 mm Ceriani 608 telescopic fork
Rear SuspensionMarzocchi 300 mm dual shocks, 3-way adjustable

Wheels & Brakes

Front Wheel/Rim Size3.50 – 18
Rear Wheel/Rim Size4.25 – 18
Front Brakes2 x 280 mm Disc, 1 piston caliper
Rear BrakesSingle 260 mm disc

Dimension & Weights

Overall Length2260 mm / 88.9 in
Overall Width780 mm / 30.7 in
Overall Height1090 mm / 42.9 in
Seat Height30.7 inches / 780 mm
Wheelbase61.0 inches / 1550 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity15 L / 4.0 US gal / 3.3 Imp gal
Wet (kerb/curb) Weight494 lbs / 224 kg
Dry Weight216 kg / 476 lbs

Features

  • Four stroke, 90L twin cylinder engine
  • SOHC design
  • 2 valves per cylinder
  • Bevel gear driven
  • 863.9cc capacity
  • Desmodromic valve system (900SS only)
  • 65bhp power output
  • Top speed: just over 115mph
  • Standing start quarter mile time: just over 13secs
  • Fuel consumption: between 45-50mpg
  • Light weight for its class
  • Good balance and handling
  • Sturdy frame
  • Brembo discs all round
  • Ceriani forks at the front
  • Campagnolo wheels
  • Nippon Denso instruments
  • Electric starter
Ducati900 SD Darmah (1977 - 78)
Ducati900 SD Darmah (1977 - 78)
Ducati900 SD Darmah (1977 - 78)
Ducati900 SD Darmah (1977 - 78)

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