Ducati 900 SS (1978)

Ducati900 SS (1978)

Ducati’s iconic 900 SS, a modern interpretation of the legendary Super Sport, was born from the company’s groundbreaking victory at Imola in 1972. This four-stroke, twin-cylinder masterpiece boasts a bevel gear-driven SOHC engine with 2 valves per cylinder, echoing the innovative design principles that made Ducati a force to be reckoned with on the European racing circuit.

With its rich heritage and sleek styling, the 900 SS embodies the spirit of competition and innovation. Its compact frame and lightweight construction make it an agile and responsive ride, while its powerful engine delivers a thrilling riding experience.

The 1974 Super Sport’s legendary status is well-deserved, as it set new standards for production motorcycles with its unique blend of performance, handling, and style.

Key Specifications

Engine TypeFour stroke, 90Ltwin cylinder, SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder, bevel gear driven
Engine Capacity864 cc / 52.7 cu in
Max Power49.2 kw / 67 hp
Fuel Tank Capacity20 L / 5.3 US gal / 4.4 Imp gal
Seat Height29.9 inches / 760 mm
Ducati900 SS (1978)

All Specifications

Make & Model

ModelDucati900 SS
Year1978

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 Ratio9.5:1
Max Horsepower49.2 kw / 67 hp
Engine Management System2 x Dell’Orto PHM 40 A, B or C carburetors
Cooling SystemAir cooled

Performance

Top Speed217 km/h / 135mph

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 12N/12A-4A-12V
StarterKick (electric as an option)

Chassis & Suspension

Front Suspension38 mm Marzocchi fork
Rear SuspensionMarzocchi 310 mm dual shocks, 3-way adjustable

Wheels & Brakes

Front Wheel/Rim Size3.50 – 18
Rear Wheel/Rim Size4.00 – 18
Front Brakes2 x 280mm Disc, 1 piston caliper
Rear BrakesSingle 229 mm disc

Dimension & Weights

Overall Length2200 mm / 86.6 in
Overall Width675 mm / 26.6 in
Overall Height1050 mm / 41.3 in
Seat Height29.9 inches / 760 mm
Wheelbase59.0 inches / 1500 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity20 L / 5.3 US gal / 4.4 Imp gal
Dry Weight188 kg / 414 lbs

Features

  • Here is the list of key features, standard equipment, and technical highlights:
  • Four-stroke engine
  • Twin cylinder configuration
  • SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) design
  • 2 valves per cylinder
  • Bevel gear driven camshaft
  • Desmodromic valve gear
  • 90-degree V-twin motor
  • 750 cc displacement (1974 model)
  • 864 cc “square-case” twin cylinder motor (1975 model)
  • Square case engine design
  • Right-side gear shift (contradicting US regulations)
  • Left-side shifting on later models
  • Quieter mufflers
  • Relocated shifting and rear brake
  • New foot pegs
  • Redesigned kick-starter mechanism
  • 6 gallon gas tank
  • Low weight of 333 lb (151 kg)
Ducati900 SS (1978)
Ducati900 SS (1978)
Ducati900 SS (1978)
Ducati900 SS (1978)

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