In the early 1970s, Ducati’s 500cc race bike performed poorly at the famed Imola race track. But the Italian motorcycle maker took those defeats on its home turf as a challenge. It responded by developing 750cc, 860cc, and 900SS motorcycles.
The 1975 Ducati 900 Super Sport recently offered for sale on eBay is a shining example.
The seller explains that this bike was previously owned by Canadian Ducati aficionado Keith Harte, who introduced the Italian marque to Canada in the 1970s. Harte nickel-plated the frame and rebuilt the engine with high-performance Ducati racing parts. Other upgrades include a rebuilt carburetor and new brake pads.
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Breaking Speed Records
Increasing engine displacement was only the first step. Ducati also introduced significant changes to the powerplant. For example, the Ducati 900 Super Sport features desmo valves tuned to the engine’s crankshaft. Desmodromic engines—dating to 1896—use two cams and two actuators instead of a return spring. One cam pushes open the valve, and another valve closes it. Desmo bikes are more efficient, allowing engines to rev higher and eliminate the worry of spring failure.
The Ducati 900 also sports an aerodynamic design resembling a flying bullet.
When the Ducati 750cc Super Sport first came out, many riders wanted nothing to do with an untested model. However, everything changed when British racer Paul Smart took the 750 on a test track and set a speed record on his first run. He beat the previous record held by Italian racer Giacomo Agostini.
Building on its success, Ducati put the engine from its air-cooled V-twin 864cc GT roadster into the 750 Super Sport’s’s frame—and the Ducati 900SS was born.
Right-Side Shifting
From 1975 to 1982, Ducati produced 246 units of the 900SS. However, only 80 came to the United States.
Ducati 900SS bikes of the period can be identified by their 4.76-gallon fiberglass gas tank and lack of turn signals. Also, it has a right-side shifter, which was the norm before US Department of Transportation regulations demanded shifters be located on the left side.
The chromed upswept Conti mufflers - opens in new window or tab. and massive 40mm Dellorto carburetor - opens in new window or tab.—which feeds the air-cooled 90-degree L-twin SOHC engine—complete the Ducati’s performance design.
This Ducati 900 Super Sport is Investment Grade
The bike is well-tuned. The seller drains the fuel before storing it during the winter. Then, when the riding season returns, it starts every time with one or two kicks.
These rare desmo Ducati bikes are good investments. Of course, not everybody has a quarter-million dollars at their fingertips. Nonetheless, the lofty price reflects the importance of the bike’s history and the enduring beauty of its design.
The current owner rides this Ducati 900SS on annual pilgrimages from Miami to prestigious Florida motorcycle shows, such as the Boca Raton Concours d’Elegance - opens in new window or tab. and Dania Beach Vintage Motorcycle Show. Hopefully, the next owner will continue to share this Ducati 900 Super Sport with public—and enjoy it on the open road.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.