The Ducati 900SS/CR was a bread-and-butter model for Ducati throughout the 90s, a more affordable option for Ducatisti who didn’t really need the performance or maintenance headaches of the more exotic four-valve bikes like the 851, 888, and 916. Here in the US, we mostly got the 900cc version, but 750 and 600 examples do show up from time to time. There was even a 400cc version for the Japanese market.
It was powered by Ducati’s air and oil-cooled, two-valve Desmodue v-twin that debuted way back in the 1980 Pantah. Displacing 904cc and backed by a six-speed transmission, the 414lb [dry] package was good for a claimed 80hp and 135mph. Those numbers don’t sound impressive today in terms of outright performance, but the bike handled very well, even on the non-adjustable suspension found on the CR model, and the two-valve engine has a flexible midrange that makes for great real-world performance.
This particular example is the SS/CR or “Cafe Racer” version of the bike that featured more basic, non-adjustable suspension and a few plastic bits in place of carbon fiber, compared to the more exclusive SS/SP or “Sport Production.” Visually, the CR is generally distinguished by the stylish half fairing here in the US, although I believe other markets may have been different. I like both versions of the bike, but honestly prefer the half fairing as it shows off the good-looking Desmodue twin.
From the original eBay listing: 1996 Ducati 900SS/CR for Sale
I’ve decided to part with one of my Ducati’s. With five bikes total I just don’t have enough time to ride all of them and the oldest, and in my opinion, the nicest just needs more time spent with her.I had bought a 1996 CR brand new back in the day and always regretted selling it and then I view years ago I started looking around the country to find the perfect one. It took me a while, but then I found it, unmolested, and all stock in Virginia. It’s a 96 SS/CR, 7700 miles, not a scratch on it. It has BOS high mount cans, all of the carbon bits available, fender, hugger, sprocket and chain covers, belt covers etc. I have all of the original parts, original exhaust, windscreen, etc to make it 100 percent stock if you wanted to. Even the license plate holder has not been cut.I can deliver this bike for no charge anywhere along I-40 from Alabama to Los Angeles. I am leaving Alabama with an empty enclosed trailer and heading east in approximately 2 weeks.I bought the bike without seeing it in person and I was extremely pleased to see it was all that it was advertised to be when it arrived at my door.
The seller is asking $6,000 for this low-mileage example. That’s certainly not the cheapest 900SS you’re likely to find, but it appears to be in excellent cosmetic condition and is probably well worth the premium you’d pay over a tattier or higher-mileage example. I’m a huge fan of these bikes: they’re good-looking, sound amazing, are reliable when properly maintained, and are easy to work on. A great affordable exotic and a very versatile ride.
-tad
