Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: nc43bsa on April 30, 2021, 07:50:42 PM
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I'm beginning a search for one of my dream bikes: a Ducati 900SS. Red, air-cooled, belt-driven cams, 2-valve variety.
What are the major differences between the model years? For example, do they all have inverted forks? Are they all carbureted?
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91-97 are carb bikes, 98 was a transition year with the Final Edition (900SS FE) being an up-spec’d carb model, 98-on are injected and restyled, substantially different. All have upside down forks.
Sounds like some study would be required to figure out what you want. Ian Falloon’s books are OK, for example this one would serve your needs:
https://www.biblio.com/book/ducati-desmodue-twins-pantah-f1-750/d/1194571990?aid=frg¤cy_id=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIhY---6Sn8AIV_h-tBh253AsEEAQYAiABEgKoy_D_BwE
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I'm beginning a search for one of my dream bikes: a Ducati 900SS. Red, air-cooled, belt-driven cams, 2-valve variety.
What are the major differences between the model years? For example, do they all have inverted forks? Are they all carbureted?
I had a '97 900ss/sp carb'd version. It had the adjustable showa suspension f/r and carbon bits. Wish I still had it. All day comfortable with a Sargent seat (very important!).
The newer styled '99 and up had FI but more of an aggressive riding position. Wasn't too fond of them when they debuted, but they seem to be growing on me .
My '97...
(https://i.ibb.co/G0BvF8V/900SSSP.jpg) (https://ibb.co/G0BvF8V)
free image upload (https://imgbb.com/)
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Know that the circa 1994-95 bikes are prone to cracking in frame at headstock. Seems to be not as common on 1996 models. Frames were often repaired or replaced so numbers don't match, so that's a consideration towards value/price.
I probably shouldn't have sold my 95 900SS/CR, even though it had the wrong full SS fairing. It's hard to buy them ready to ride for $235.00 anymore...
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I’ve been thinking I need a Ducati also. A clean 900 would be just the thing. It could speak with the Guzzis, annoy the /5 and ignore the Commando. I bought a gorgeous fully faired charcoal with white frame model for $4,000 about ten years ago and then sold it right away. What was I thinking.
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1994 introduced the CR model with non adjustable forks, steel swing arm, and narrower rear wheel.
The half fairing which was an option on the earlier white frame bikes ( 91-92 ) which were all full spec. ( the 750SS had non adjustable forks, steel swing arm, and narrower rear wheel. )
You really can't go wrong.
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Here's pretty good chart showing the differences.
I've owned both the SS/SP and SS/CR and like things on each bike. The 1/s fairing of the CR and the adjustable suspension of the SP are wonderful together. I like the 160 rear tire on the CR better than the 180 of the SP. I also prefer the steel swingarm off the CR as it does not crack like the aluminum one on the SP but i like the rear underslung brake caliper of the SP.
Either bike is great and eve then adjustable suspension of the SP is not that much greater than the non-adjustable of the CR.
Steering head frames cracks do happen and its not a hard job to repair. Out of the 3 SS's I've owned none had cracked frames or repaired cracked frames. You can also buy or make a gusset that is supposed to help this from happening. It is though that the frames flex/bow at the headstock under heavy braking. This is one of the potential causes of cracking. Honestly If I found a bike with a cracked frame I'd use it a price ;leverage and within a few minutes the fellows at work could have it all TIG welded up better then new.
The 900 motor responds extremely to a pair of FCR 39 carbs. Hopefully you can find a bike with these already installed or they are another $1,000 if you want to add later. The stock BST vacuum carbs are marginal at best and even fiddling with them you can make them better but a great vacuum carb will never be as a shitty pumper carb
There is/was a fellow in ADV Rider selling two (2) SS's. He is in Florida.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiaxcvjuKjwAhWNB50JHT2CCrYQFjAAegQIAxAD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ducatitech.com%2F2v%2Fsp_cr_faq.html&usg=AOvVaw3uKw_bMiEYJf3OXHdKRBvR
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I bought the first year 1991 white frame/white wheels edition. Put a Jimmy Adamo canister on it. In my opinion still one of the most attractive offerings Ducati has produced. The sound was intoxicating and seating position was spot on between sport bike and sport touring. Many memories riding the twisties in southern Ohio.
Still the only picture of a motorcycle that sits on my desk. I saved a side of the wood shipping container that had Ducati graphics and it is still hanging as a piece of art on the wall in my barn. Wonderful memories. Magical bike.
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Here's pretty good chart showing the differences.
I've owned both the SS/SP and SS/CR and like things on each bike. The 1/s fairing of the CR and the adjustable suspension of the SP are wonderful together. I like the 160 rear tire on the CR better than the 180 of the SP. I also prefer the steel swingarm off the CR as it does not crack like the aluminum one on the SP but i like the rear underslung brake caliper of the SP.
Either bike is great and eve then adjustable suspension of the SP is not that much greater than the non-adjustable of the CR.
Steering head frames cracks do happen and its not a hard job to repair. Out of the 3 SS's I've owned none had cracked frames or repaired cracked frames. You can also buy or make a gusset that is supposed to help this from happening. It is though that the frames flex/bow at the headstock under heavy braking. This is one of the potential causes of cracking. Honestly If I found a bike with a cracked frame I'd use it a price ;leverage and within a few minutes the fellows at work could have it all TIG welded up better then new.
The 900 motor responds extremely to a pair of FCR 39 carbs. Hopefully you can find a bike with these already installed or they are another $1,000 if you want to add later. The stock BST vacuum carbs are marginal at best and even fiddling with them you can make them better but a great vacuum carb will never be as a shitty pumper carb
There is/was a fellow in ADV Rider selling two (2) SS's. He is in Florida.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiaxcvjuKjwAhWNB50JHT2CCrYQFjAAegQIAxAD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ducatitech.com%2F2v%2Fsp_cr_faq.html&usg=AOvVaw3uKw_bMiEYJf3OXHdKRBvR
Thanks. Great table. Mine came stock with a 170 rear. I did do the FCR39 carbs and they were great. Although it turned out that the issue with poor running of the stock carbs were the soft emulsion tubes. From what I remember, the issues were caused after installing a jet kit with the tapered needles. Problem solved by replacing the stock emulsion tubes.
I did the Race Tech mods front and rear, and boy did it handle great. Light, great brakes (cast iron full floaters on the SP), with lots of torque.
I'd seriously consider a clean, later gen, SS800 or SS1000 with updated suspension. Prices are low for these.
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Here's pretty good chart showing the differences.
I've owned both the SS/SP and SS/CR and like things on each bike. The 1/s fairing of the CR and the adjustable suspension of the SP are wonderful together. I like the 160 rear tire on the CR better than the 180 of the SP. I also prefer the steel swingarm off the CR as it does not crack like the aluminum one on the SP but i like the rear underslung brake caliper of the SP.
Either bike is great and eve then adjustable suspension of the SP is not that much greater than the non-adjustable of the CR.
Steering head frames cracks do happen and its not a hard job to repair. Out of the 3 SS's I've owned none had cracked frames or repaired cracked frames. You can also buy or make a gusset that is supposed to help this from happening. It is though that the frames flex/bow at the headstock under heavy braking. This is one of the potential causes of cracking. Honestly If I found a bike with a cracked frame I'd use it a price ;leverage and within a few minutes the fellows at work could have it all TIG welded up better then new.
The 900 motor responds extremely to a pair of FCR 39 carbs. Hopefully you can find a bike with these already installed or they are another $1,000 if you want to add later. The stock BST vacuum carbs are marginal at best and even fiddling with them you can make them better but a great vacuum carb will never be as a shitty pumper carb
There is/was a fellow in ADV Rider selling two (2) SS's. He is in Florida.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=2ahUKEwiaxcvjuKjwAhWNB50JHT2CCrYQFjAAegQIAxAD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ducatitech.com%2F2v%2Fsp_cr_faq.html&usg=AOvVaw3uKw_bMiEYJf3OXHdKRBvR
The problem with the Mikuni CV carbs is people don't know how to tune them...My 96 900 Monster has the the Mikuni 's and nyone who wants to come here and test it is welcome. If you intend to race the bike on a track then the FC's are a better choice
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Here’s my 96 SS/CR. Carbed. One of my all time favorite bikes. Visceral. Surprisingly comfortable. Easy to work on (don’t let people scare you about the valves or cam belts).
I think the half faired CR version is one of the prettiest bikes ever made. The full fairing version does nothing for me.
Beware the overly long and sharp side stand.
(https://i.ibb.co/1qf4fbQ/BE740202-182-B-40-A0-9-D81-3-B32144-DB938.png) (https://ibb.co/1qf4fbQ)
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91-97 are carb bikes, 98 was a transition year with the Final Edition (900SS FE) being an up-spec’d carb model, 98-on are injected and restyled, substantially different. All have upside down forks.
Sounds like some study would be required to figure out what you want. Ian Falloon’s books are OK, for example this one would serve your needs:
https://www.biblio.com/book/ducati-desmodue-twins-pantah-f1-750/d/1194571990?aid=frg¤cy_id=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIhY---6Sn8AIV_h-tBh253AsEEAQYAiABEgKoy_D_BwE
No one had that book locally, so I guess I'll be ordering it.
Thanks for the link.
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It is indeed. Rest assured it has a good home. But it works for a living.
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The best version. My 2003 Dual Plug 1000 Supersport. The frame breakages on the earlier bikes was caused by the fact that Ducati welded a tank support/gusset at the wrong location on the steering head tubes. It's a basic frame building no, no to weld any perpendicular to the tube support/brace/gusset on the centre line of the frame tube as it causes cracking in just about any tubular frame under stress. Ducati forgot the golden rule and suffered the consequences.
(https://i.ibb.co/6wNFsDk/small.jpg) (https://ibb.co/6wNFsDk)
Ciao
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It doesn't get better that this IMO.
(https://i.ibb.co/WKsQt0q/6.jpg) (https://ibb.co/WKsQt0q)
(https://i.ibb.co/MgYy3D5/12.jpg) (https://ibb.co/MgYy3D5)
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Tuning them is not hard. The problem is the vacuum carbs have a vacuum operated slide and no matter what you do will never be as responsive as a pumper.
DR650's also use BST carbs and you can make them better by doing several hacks but the will never be as good as a low end pumper carb. Add in a high end pumper like a FCR and it only gets better.
Damn that is a sharp bike!
Then you need to ride my bike..In my opinion, the merits of 1000 bucks worth of carbs on a street bike with 85 hp is overated..
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Good friend in northen Va has a very clean and sorted half faring(red) 900ss he might consider selling.Message me if you want me to look into it for you
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I know 0 about the brand but I remembered this post and saw this one on Facebook mark place near where I live in central NC. I may can get a number.
(https://i.ibb.co/LpnFqWm/A6360-AC6-DB52-4-EBA-AF27-0-C853391-C9-D1.png) (https://ibb.co/LpnFqWm)
cnos dakota dunes (https://nonprofitlight.com/sd/dakota-dunes/cnos-foundation)
Tap on picture for full viewing
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Then you need to ride my bike..In my opinion, the merits of 1000 bucks worth of carbs on a street bike with 85 hp is overated..
And you should ride one being fed with FCR's.
Having owned mutiple 900'ss and DR650's with BST carbs you can rework the BST for better performance but in the end its like shining a turd. No matter how much shine you get on it its still a turd.
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Ducati 900's - - There are many choices and models available - - some are very reasonable - - and some are very expensive!! :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :shocked: :shocked: :huh: :huh:
(https://i.ibb.co/TrH2D0w/Screen-Shot-2021-05-02-at-10-07-04-AM.png) (https://ibb.co/TrH2D0w)
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https://www.ducati.ms/threads/fs-1994-900ss-sp.735829/#post-7135711
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210503/3292725f57e7482065d2b708f5869ea5.jpg)
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I think this FE is a great deal!....If I didn't already have a Superlight MK1 I'd be all over this.
https://seattle.craigslist.org/est/mcy/d/bellevue-1998-ducati-900-fe/7314379805.html
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Same bike?
https://cnj.craigslist.org/mcy/d/kendall-park-ducati-900ss-sp/7316056501.html
https://www.ducati.ms/threads/fs-1994-900ss-sp.735829/#post-7135711
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210503/3292725f57e7482065d2b708f5869ea5.jpg)
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prolly.....
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My 93'. They're absolutely beautiful. Mine had a 944cc kit and flatslides. It ran/metered fuel perfectly....better than any FI bike I've owned. They give a brutal ride on rough roads and the clip-ons are pretty low. They're also heavier than you might think. They weigh 460-470lbs. On a smooth road with 60-80mph sweepers they're sublime. On anything else they can be a little lacking. Really limited steering lock makes moving around in your garage or in the city difficult too.
IMHO, they're a bike that if you can buy one, you should definitely do so for a while. They're lovely to look at. They go and stop fairly well and they're fun to take out for an hour at a time. Don't be afraid of bikes with higher mileage as long as they haven't been used for track days. The valves will settle in after a couple adjustments and stay in spec for a long time. Especially if they've had MPB collets installed. There are quite a few 900's with 80-100,000 relatively trouble free miles.
Mine ended up being a catch and release. The ride on rough roads was too punishing and I would have cracked the frame. I'm glad I owned it though. It was a nice experience.
(https://i.ibb.co/d2R7117/12191613-10207941841054006-1260561416676983529-n.jpg) (https://ibb.co/d2R7117)
(https://i.ibb.co/rpCTrkG/289688-2318361928615-169022-o.jpg) (https://ibb.co/rpCTrkG)
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Now that is how you take care of a motorcycle :grin:
(https://i.ibb.co/vXNzcT0/D7-DF8-A25-092-A-4179-B859-E2-B1226520-D6.jpg) (https://ibb.co/vXNzcT0)
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There is a sometime poster here named PhilB who used to ride a Ducati M900. Same engine as the 900SS. He got over 250,000
miles from his before some dingbat pulled out in front of him totaling the bike.
By all accounts these air-cooled, 2 valve engine are bullet proof.
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And you should ride one being fed with FCR's.
Having owned mutiple 900'ss and DR650's with BST carbs you can rework the BST for better performance but in the end its like shining a turd. No matter how much shine you get on it its still a turd.
I did look into FC's....Considering the tight backroads I ride on and my riding skills,the last thing needed was sharper throttle response. Si instead of doing what others claim you must do, the polished the turds and if by magic the became quite nice and saved 1000 bucks
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There is a sometime poster here named PhilB who used to ride a Ducati M900. Same engine as the 900SS. He got over 250,000
miles from his before some dingbat pulled out in front of him totaling the bike.
By all accounts these air-cooled, 2 valve engine are bullet proof.
Well not quite.
Ciao
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Hey Turin, that quarter fairing, '92 has always been my favorite too
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I looked at a couple SS's and a couple S's before I bought my Monster. They are cool to look at but the riding position would kill me. Monsters have better ergos for street riding. JMO. YMMV.
Larry
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Obviously comfort is subjective but I'll say by Duc is far more comfortable than my Sport 1100.
(https://i.ibb.co/99Qqvqd/IMG-4420.jpg) (https://ibb.co/99Qqvqd)
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Monsters are most comfortable for shorter people.
Belt drive SSs are most comfortable for people of medium height.
Sportis and Daytonas are good for taller people.
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True, I'm 6'4 and fit really well on my '97 spiney .
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I'm a thin 6 foot and my 96 900 Monster feels fine...And better after getting a Sargent seat, the stock seat pushed me forward....
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I looked at a couple SS's and a couple S's before I bought my Monster. They are cool to look at but the riding position would kill me. Monsters have better ergos for street riding. JMO. YMMV.
Larry
I guess that's subjective. I've owned both a '97 900SS and '07 S2R1000, and i preferred the ergos of the 900SS. The bar on the Monster was too flat for me. I think taller riders are better off on the Monster while shorties (like me) will prefer the 900.
My 900 was a perfectly comfortable all day ride once i installed the Sargent seat and Racetech suspension.
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Panigale V4 Dreamin"... :bow: :bow: :thumb: :thumb: :cool: :cool: :boozing: :boozing: :shocked: :rolleyes:
(https://i.ibb.co/jGQqz5C/Screen-Shot-2021-05-07-at-2-16-35-PM.png) (https://ibb.co/jGQqz5C)
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I've owned this 97 for 2 years now,I love it, but I couldn't ride it accross country,at 65 my back cant stand the riding position.So its 100 miles or less kind of bike for me. The engine is a dream, unbelievable torque for 900 cc,I've got the stock CV carbs dialed in, the bike performs great with the stock carbs. My bike is the CR version with the quarter fairings,but just for fun and to give it a different look I made these aluminum quarter fairing pieces .The originals parts go with the bike when and if I sell it.
(https://i.ibb.co/2ZNN8hW/20200707-104116.jpg) (https://ibb.co/2ZNN8hW)
(https://i.ibb.co/mtHsdK8/20200531-123105.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mtHsdK8)
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You might also consider a paso,
They are affordable now, and a brilliant ride.
Instant classic.....