1981 Ducati 900SS

• Classic 'bevel-drive' Ducati
• Improved 'square case' model

Ducati's second-generation v-twin engine - the 900cc 'square case' (actual capacity 864cc) - debuted in the 860GT of 1974 and the following year was used to power the new 900SS superbike. The latter was styled like the original 750SS that had been developed from Paul Smart's 1972 Imola winner. (The 750SS continued in this new 'square case' guise, though almost all of these smaller, second-generation models were destined for the Italian market). More than just a simple over-bore, the 'square case' engine incorporated a new camshaft drive arrangement, improved oil pump, cartridge-type oil filter and electronic ignition. In addition, the gearchange was moved to the left-hand side and the frame altered to provide chain adjustment at the swinging arm pivot. As had been the case with the original 750SS, desmodromic valve gear distinguished the new sports roadster from its tourer counterpart. 'Like the tamer valve spring version of the engine in the 900GTS it is uncannily smooth, while possessing a much more dramatically punchy power output than the soft touring motor,' reported Bike magazine in October 1977. Breathing through gaping 40mm Dell'Orto carburettors, the 900SS engine produced 70bhp at 7,500rpm, an output good enough for a top speed of 135mph. The 900SS's competition heritage was obvious on the road: 'While other flash Italian bikes are basically roadsters dressed up and pretending to be racers, this is the real thing,' declared Bike.

Engine design improvements pioneered on the Darmah model were incorporated for 1978 together with a left-side gearchange, while Speedline alloy wheels were adopted part way through the year. For 1981 the 900SS underwent more extensive updating, gaining improved cylinder heads, Bosch ignition and - later on - a revised gearbox. Production ceased during 1982 after a little over 6,000 had been produced and today this classic Ducati bevel-drive twin is highly sought after.

Purchased by the current vendor in 2021 from Germany, it was imported and registered here in the UK and a few remedial jobs have been carried out since its acquisition such as fitting spoked wheels purchased from Back to Classics (the original mag wheels are offered with the lot), adjustment to the battery housing where it now sits below the front of the fuel tank and comes with an unpainted side panel and decals. Currently displaying 17,177 kilometres on the speedometer, it was run very recently by the current vendor (please see the start up video) and it will need the usual safety checks before returning to the road. Offered with a V5C, invoices, dating certificate and import documentation.
Offered with key