Every so often a future classic pops up, but with too many niggling questions to be worth pursuing. A lightweight air-cooled desmodue, the 1998 Ducati 900 SS/CR is a pending collectible and great rider. With not much of anywhere to hide mysteries, this CR appears free of damage and the long-past salvage title might make it possible.
1998 Ducati 900 SS/CR for sale on eBay
1998 was the last year of the carburetted and square headlight supersports. The 85 hp 904 cc twin was mated to a 6-speed trans and nicely equipped with Showa inverted forks and monoshock, and generously sized Brembo brakes. The Cafe Racer had the upper-only fairing with an un-cramped riding position and raised clip-ons.
Treated to the 944 cc pistons and accompanying engine work, this Texas Ducati has an unusual 41mm carburettor upgrade as well. These changes should result in close to 100 hp, and has recent maintenance, as the owner relates in the eBay auction:
Clean, well maintained 1998 Ducati 900SS CR. Owner since 2004. Bike has roughly 1000 miles on Fast by Ferracci 944cc high compression overbore kit. Carburetors have been upgraded to Keihin 41mm FCRs. Vance and Hines carbon fiber exhaust completes the package. This bike sounds mean and has the performance to back it up. The bike has been recently serviced with all fluids changed, ignition system upgraded, racing plugs and wires installed, and a fresh set of Michelin Pilot Powers mounted. Receipts available. The bike does have a salvage title. The previous owner bought the bike at a police auction and restored it cosmetically. To my knowledge, this bike has never been down or sustained any major damage. The bike has been in my care for the past 12 years. This beautiful bike is ready for some lucky buyer to take her home…
Under attack by the Monster and with a re-design coming, only a few hundred Supersports were brought this way in 1998. This CR has had the benefit of a long-term owner, and shows nicely for just over 11,000 miles. An afternoon with our friend Nev-R-Dull and a sticker-ectomy would only complement the rugged good looks and performance. After inspection, it would be worth checking with DMV about the implications of a salvage title in your state, but it might put an otherwise out-of-reach machine back in the ballpark…
-donn
I’m seriously looking at 900SS CR right now. I have an 899, and I love it dearly, but after a year of ownership, I’m beginning to think that the 899 is just a little “too much” for street, where I use it the most. Also, I love wrenching on my bikes, and the newer machines are really difficult to work on, so there’s a tiny bit of my brain that’s thinking maybe I’d replace the 899 with something like 900SS CR…
I’ve got a ’93 and cannot say it enough: They’re great bikes. More reliable than people give them credit, and simple to operate/maintain with only a little bit of knowledge and tools. Plus, no matter where I go, there’s always somebody that comments on the bike – so if that matters, they’re good for that too…
Personally I don’t like all the red bits tacked on. especially those anodized red brake and clutch lines (ugh).
This one probably needs a good going through, fresh fluids and rubber. Also the location of the oil cooler lines has always troubled me but overall still a pretty good bike. Sure you won’t win any races but a fairly cheap way to get the Ducati experience without going the monster route.
Couldn’t agree more. I’ve ridden my 93 750SS from Oregon to the bay area several times and it’s never missed a beat.
dc
Have always loved, and always will love these 900SS’s. Mine never let me down, even with track time. Want one? Shop by documented ownership, maintenance history and condition, NOT by cheapest price. This one? Let’s see: dodgy title and dodgy history, dodgy appearance mods/changes. + 944 kit and Keihins are nice if installed kit correctly and if carbs are jetted well. Look for a better example and be happier long term.
I have a 93 Superlight I’d like to sell. 5000 miles, prestine, very loved and getting pretty collectible.
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dc
I have to agree with the general sentiment: these are GREAT bikes and I love mine. They’ll have to find a way to stuff it into my casket when I pass.
Unfortunately this one failed to sell. Not a single bid on the $3,500 opening ask.