1982 Ducati 900SS

1982 Ducati 900SS

The 1982 1982 Ducati 900SS packs a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel engine with 68hp into a sport bike package from Ducati.

Specifications

Engine

Type
SOHC L-twin bevel
Displacement
864 cc
Cylinders
2
Power
68 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque
62.0 Nm
Compression
Bore × Stroke
86.0 × 74.4 mm
Cooling
Air-cooled
Fuel System
2x Dell'Orto carburetors

Chassis & Transmission

Frame
Steel tube trellis
Front Suspension
Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension
Twin shock
Front Brake
Dual disc
Rear Brake
Single disc
Front Tyre
Rear Tyre
Transmission
5-speed
Final Drive
Chain

Performance

Top Speed
210 km/h (130 mph)
¼ Mile

Dimensions & Weight

Dry Weight
188 kg (414 lbs)
Wet Weight
203 kg (448 lbs)
Seat Height
790 mm
Wheelbase
1430 mm
Ground Clearance
Fuel Capacity
18.0 L

History & Story

In 1982, Ducati launched the 1982 Ducati 900SS — a sport bike that would come to define an era of motorcycling. Hailing from Italy, it combined Italy engineering with sport bike appeal.

Powering the 1982 Ducati 900SS is a 864cc SOHC L-twin bevel producing 68hp. This twin-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 2x Dell'Orto carburetors. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.

Built around a steel tube trellis frame, the 1982 Ducati 900SS suspends its 188 kg (414 lbs) on telescopic fork forks and twin shock rear units. Braking relies on dual disc at the front and single disc at the rear, with a 1430 mm wheelbase providing stability.

Performance-wise, the 1982 Ducati 900SS achieves a claimed top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 18.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for sport bike duties. The seat height of 790 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.

Today, the 1982 Ducati 900SS is considered a respected classic that attracts serious collector interest and continues to appreciate. Parts availability is rated as moderate, making ownership a dedicated pursuit. It remains an icon of Ducati motorcycling from 1980s.

Known Issues

  • Desmo valve adjustment requires specialist knowledge
  • Bevel gear tower maintenance critical
  • Electrical system (early models use basic components)
  • Dry clutch rattle at idle (character, not defect)

Fun Facts

  • The 1982 Ducati 900SS was produced in Ducati's Italy facilities
  • The 1982 Ducati 900SS featured a steel tube trellis frame typical of 1980s design philosophy

Collector Information

Parts Availability
Moderate
Collector Rating
7/10

Resources & Parts