Posts by tag: 900SS

Ducati June 11, 2022 posted by Donn

Sortalight – 1993 Ducati 900SS Superlight #874

Ducati made a some purely sporting mods to the 904cc Supersport which eliminated the pillion and a added a few lighter components. A previous owner undid some of the weight savings but this is still a quite original and very good example.

1993 Ducati 900SS Superlight for sale on eBay

With all the goodness built in from the 900SS, the Superlight’s single seat and higher exhaust were the icing on the cake. Air-cooled 78 hp accompanied improved braking and adjustable Showa suspension bits, and Marvic wheels with aluminum rims married to magnesium hubs reduced mass in the right places. Carbon mudguards and clutch cover imparted extra lightness. Sure can’t argue with the race number prep on the tailcone and edition number plaque on the triple tree. Chrome yellow paint controverted Ducati rosso purists.

With a shade under 30 years and just over 26K miles, this Superlight has a few imperfections, but looks all together and original in places where many aren’t. Presuming the previous owner wanted wider rear rubber, the next owner will want to keep an eye open for a correct rear wheel to go with new tires. Notes in the eBay auction wander a bit but hit all the important points –

I’ve had it for a few years and barely rode it, I mainly just stared at it. LOL This is a beautiful bike and an absolute head turner when it’s out. They are rarely seen out and about.

Here’s the service history since I’ve had it, all work done by one of the great Ducati 900SS experts in the country, Bobby Weindorf. He has extensive experience from working at Pro Italia and as a mechanic and curator for the Moto Talbot collection and more.

June 2021

-Check valve clearances- all good

-Install new belts, check tensioners and rollers

-Flush and bleed brakes

-Flush and bleed clutch

-Replace spark plugs

-Clean and adjust carbs, clean jets, clean out idle circuit

June 2022

-Disassemble carbs, cleaned all jets

-flush front brake system, installed braided steel lines

Fairings are in really great shape and yes they still have the black spongy lining on the inside. I believe this lining is original. This stuff is so brittle it flakes off to the touch, I’m not kidding, it’s a mess when you touch it, but I’m not removing it because I understand some collectors want that intact for originality.

Some of the bolt holes on the seat fairing have “spiderweb” cracks from a prior owner over-tightening. See pics. Common but unfortunate. I’ve seen body/paint shops lightly touch these up to hide them. I’ll leave that up to you.

Tank looks gorgeous, no dents dings or scratches, one very small touch up paint spot. Probably a few minor nicks here and there, as expected for a 30 year old bike. The engine/metal parts could use a thorough cleaning with some q-tips and a good cleaner to get into the crevices.

The front wheel is the original Marvic. The rear wheel is not. Previous owner swapped for a wheel off a 1997 916. You may be able to find an original replacement on eBay or overseas, I’ve seen them come up for sale.

Bike fires right up, I mean really fires up! First touch of start button! I’m happy to send you a video.

Probably the Make Offer will get some action on this Superlight, with its miles, recent maintenance and appearance asking for a bit more attention. Superlight worldwide production looks to have been just over 1,300 in 1992, then a little over half that in 1993-95. Since the profit engineers stepped in after the first year, earlier bikes are choice. This example checks a lot of boxes and hopefully the next owner will buff it up to a high lustre.

-donn

Sortalight – 1993 Ducati 900SS Superlight #874

Ducati May 13, 2022 posted by William

Back To Our Regular Programing: 1996 Ducati 900SS SuperLight (In UK)

Seems as if the UK has had a couple of really interesting motorcycles come to market recently. On the heals of a post trying to make a case for a Bimota DB2 over a standard 900SS this SuperLight really complicates the situation. Sure the DB2 is appealing, but is it too niche? Maybe a Ducati 900SS SuperLight is a better fit. The SuperLight was to be the ultimate version of the first generation SuperSports. A light, simple, fun machine. In the end Ducati created a cult classic from the start.

The single seal SuperLight was treated to more than just a unique numbered plaque on the triple tree. The special yellow and single seat configuration make the bike pop and stand out. Some carbon extras reduce weight and increase the visual appeal. In some markets lighter wheels were used. Many small details come together to create a wonderful package. Low production numbers mean that you are unlikely to run into another at the local bike night.

From The Seller’s eBay Listing:

Ducati 900 Superlight MK IV, 1996/N, I’m only the 3rd owner, 42438 miles, MOT 12th June 2022 (Can put full MOT on the bike for new owner), Comes with 2 x original keys, a thick stack of service history (Belts changed at 40974 miles), Carbon cans, clutch cover and front & rear mud guards, Superb to ride, sounds lovely, Great original condition for age & mileage, HPI Clear, Possible part exchange? Collection Norwich, I may be able to deliver, £5250 NO TIME WASTERS as I just don’t have the spare time!!! Genuine bike so only genuine buyers please!!!

With the rise in popularity of all things 90s it is hard to think of a more Rad way to spend 5250 Pounds Sterling. At the current exchange that price would have buyers lined up around the block in the UK. One would think that there could not be that much of an imbalance on opposite sides of the pond. Would love to hear from some of our UK readers on the topic of valuation and comparisons to US based recent sales. Mileage is a fair bit higher than others that have been listed, but these robust motors are know to last.

Bimota May 12, 2022 posted by William

Relative Bargain: 1993 Bimota DB2 In The UK

Less is often said to be more. Less weight means better handling. Less power can mean the rider can extract more from the machine and end up having more fun. Less complications translate to lower service costs. If someone was going to email the RSBFS crew and want a recommendation for a bike that embodies this mindset, most of the time the answer would be a first generation Ducati 900SS. We love that bike, and for good reasons. But today lets explore a bike that is both very similar to the 900SS and very different. The Bimota DB2.

The Bimota DB2 is powered by the venerable air cooled L twin two valve Ducati engine. Producing about the same horsepower as in the Ducati. Quotes range from 82 to 86 horsepower, on average about a 2 horsepower bump over the Ducati. Maybe that is real, maybe it is marking fluff. The number that stands out is 30 pounds. That is roughly how much less weight the engine in the Bimota has to lug around. That is a hugely impressive achievement when you consider that the 900SS was not exactly a tank to start with.

The uprated suspension and Brembo calipers ensure confidence when the rider is pushing the limits either on the road or the track. Service costs are kept in check as the Ducati is know for being a reliable and easy to live with power plant. Components are easily sourced. This is not a bike that is going to consume brakes and tires like a modern superbike.

From The Seller’s eBay Listing:

1993 Bimota DB2. Ducati Bimota 904cc
these were only produced in very small numbers using Bimota’s Lightweight trellis chassis and running gear mated with the tried and tested Ducati 904cc V twin engine
( A perfect Combination) This is a very collectible lightweight V Twin that is fantastic to ride especially on B roads, just 20309 km equating to 12,619 miles.
A total of only 408 DB2s produced worldwide, out of these only 123 came with the half fairing seen on this bike.
Fitted as standard with an Ohlins rear shock, Paioli Forks and Brembo Brakes, which make for an exceptional ride.
Worldwide and nationwide delivery available.

Was surprised to see that the But It Now was only 7,500 Pounds Sterling . Traditionally there is a fairly even world wide demand for motorcycles like that, and with the prices of the 900SS examples ever rising, this really feels like a bargain. Only 408 were made, and only 123 feature this split fairing bodywork.

Guess the real question is: “Would you save a couple of bucks and buy a 900SS, or would you splurge and take the DB2?”

Ducati March 27, 2022 posted by Doug

1995 Ducati 900SS/SP #559 For Sale!

1995 Ducati 900 SS/SP #559 For Sale on eBay!

Make: Ducati
Model: 900 SS/SP
Badge: #559
Mileage: 30,311 or 31,100
Location: Costa Mesa, CA
Price: $7,250 BIN

The auction ad states 31,100 miles and even though I don’t have my glasses on, I think that reads 30,311 . . . ?

From the seller of many words
Full Desmo service

That maybe the best “For Sale” description to ever grace our page! With that said, we’re on our own for the details-

#559 looks to have been enjoyed over the past 27 years, but also appears to have been spared the typical run through the Ducati parts catalog. Other than a few prominently placed go fast stickers, mirrors, windscreen, a set of Helibar type risers and an Ohlins shock it appears to be stock and well cared for.

Much like the description, the pictures leave me thirsting for a little more. But, maybe the seller figures it’s a numbered and badged, red Ducati and you can take it or leave it. Perhaps it could also be a forced sale and really isn’t interested in moving it?

I can’t speak from experience, but all signs point to these being awesome machines to ride. Plenty of torque, narrow, and red. What more could you ask for from a 27 year old motorcycle? Oh! Let’s not forget it has a recent “Full Desmo Service” . . . whatever that means.

Interested?

You can make the jump here and ask all the questions you’d like.

Ciao!

Doug

Ducati March 9, 2022 posted by Mike

Color Me Badd: 1993 Ducati Superlight

While purists will claim that Ducati motorcycles NEED to be red, there is an undercurrent belief that yellow is indeed the fastest color. The absurdity of color changing the mechanical makeup aside, perhaps the color theory was borne out of this iconic model, the Superlight. Whereas the regular Supersport models of this era were available in red, only the Superlight was offered in yellow. Together with the white frame and composite wheels, the Superlight stood out then, and continues to strike a pose today.

Mechanically speaking, the Superlight was at the top of the Supersport pecking order. Differing from the standard 900SS by additional carbon fiber mud guards, a vented clutch cover, a solo seat tail, high-mounted exhaust (only made possible by the deletion of the passenger pillion and hardware), floating rotors and the beautiful-but-potentially-fragile Mavic composite wheels, the visually different offering was as exclusive as it was exotic. In line with Ducati specials, the Superlight was a limited edition model as indicated by a plaque on the headstock.

1993 Ducati Superlight for sale on eBay

From the seller:
1993 Ducati 900ss Superlight, was repainted in its factory scheme several years ago and has been sitting in my living room since then. It is a piece of art you can ride! I really dont want to sell this, It has been a great conversation piece and a joy to look at everyday, but I have to free up some cash for some other things at the moment.

Runs great, clean title in hand, only 15k miles. This is an original 900ss/SL… very hard to come by and has all of the nice bits that set this apart from the standard 900ss like the Marvic forged wheels, original carbon front and rear fenders in great condition, solo seat, high rise pipes, etc. Small scratch on one of the side pipes, and frame has some wear marks / scratches as it has not been refinished. Overall a great bike, perfect for a collector or someone who likes to ride vintage / rare bikes.

There is a definite market for Superlight examples, and collectors (and riders) seem to flock to this model even though the mechanical significance is minimal. The visual experience is over the top, however, and exclusivity certainly plays into the “supply” side of supply vs demand. This particular bike has a claimed 15,000 miles (exact miles not shown in the photos), is listed as having been repainted, and is lacking both the VIN info as well as any shots of the headstock with the SL plaque. These are likely some pieces of info that serious buyers would want to know, but otherwise the photos show a beautiful SL appearing how it should. The piles are stock, the clutch cover is correct, as are the carbon fiber pieces and those glorious two piece wheels. You can check out all of the details here. Even though Ducati did produce the SL in red as well as yellow – making the “which color is faster?” query superfluous – I can’t help but enjoy the contrast of the yellow on white. Make sure you jump back to the comments and let us know if this early generation of the current Superleggera makes you weak in the knees. Good Luck!!

Ducati February 3, 2022 posted by Mike

Something Special: 1995 Ducati 900SS SP

If you are into your air-cooled, two-valve, Pantah-based Ducatis, what we have here must certainly be considered as a high water mark. Possibly slightly less collectable than a Superlight, the 900 SS/SP line continues to be sought at for what it is: a fantastic riding platform that will continue to turn heads and age well. The unique numbered badge on the headstock helps drive the rarity factor, and other than the dual seat and less cantankerous single-piece wheels, you are really looking at a bronze framed, red Superlight.

From the seller:
95 Ducati 900ss sp excellent condition. New Tires, timing belts, valves adjusted, new fuel pump, fuel lines all work performed by a professional technician. More pics available. staintune stainless mufflers. I will help shippers.

Not much by way of pictures, but the seller indicates a willingness to send more upon request. For a 900SS SP, this looks to be in great shape. The Staintune pipes are aftermarket, but likely far better sounding than the restrictive stockers. The seller indicates maintenance has been done on the machine, which is always a good sign for a Ducati. The condition of the front and rear carbon mudguards tells me that they are likely original, as this era of factory carbon utilized an epoxy-based resin that shows discoloration over time when exposed to moderate sunlight. This is not uncommon, and should not be a deal breaker. The rest looks to be an honest bike, with an ask of only $7k Buy It Now. In 10 years time that will seem like a bargain, as these bikes are keepers. Check out all of the details here. Good Luck!!

Ducati January 4, 2022 posted by Donn

Sunnyside – 1995 Ducati 900SS

The bright courtyard pictures of this 900SS must’ve been taken last fall, because at 6,349 ft., it’s a bit wintry in Santa Fe. But a little warmth awaits the new owner when the truck drops off this very nice Supersport.

1995 Ducati 900SS for sale on eBay

In the days before the Monster and Multi, Ducati’s Supersport was the do-all bike – built sporty but comfortable enough to take on a commute or weekend. Air cooled and with belt-driven cams, the 904cc desmodue made 84 hp via 38mm Mikuni carbs and a dry clutch. Showa supplied the inverted fork and adjustable monoshock, and Brembo the 320 mm brakes. Dry weight was right around 400 lbs. even with the full fairing.

Never seeming to have been fawned over, this 900SS looks very good and just a few rubs interrupt the flow. Termignoni mufflers and Superlight monoposto seem to be the majority of the mods. The seat cover is a little crispy but could easily be re-covered or Sargent-ized. Comments from the eBay auction:

Very nice example with patina from regular use as expected of a 27 year old bike.

Looks and sounds fantastic. Pulls strong. No smoking or obvious mechanical wear.

Belts replace 4 years ago but have only ridden about 1500 miles since then.

Tires are virtually new having been installed a year ago and have only about 400 miles on them max.

Rare Termignoni high rise pipes and brackets from a superlight.

Superlight solo tail.

Correct factory vented clutch cover.

Battery always on a tender and is strong.

With nothing aboard that isn’t required, even lunch on a 900SS will require a backpack. And though the handling won raves, U-turns with the chassis geometry can be a dab-fest. But if a splash and a snack are available at the turn-around point, then the 90’s SS can be a grand day out. The example gives up SP credentials and static display perfection for a very sensible starting bid and a not-bad buy-it-now.

-donn

Ducati December 3, 2021 posted by Donn

Duc Season – 1982 Ducati 900SS with 1,622 Miles !

Most our early 1980’s Ducati’s tend toward the fully-faired MHR, but the Supersport with bevel driven cams has its own following. Here’s a collector with almost impossibly low miles, and requisite cosmetics for its mid-five figure ask.

1982 Ducati 900SS for sale on eBay

Though a bit more civilized than the mid-1970’s Supersports, the last year 900SS had enough gumption and the stable high speed handling that brought its early renown. 32mm Dell’Orto carbs had replaced the 40’s, and fairly quiet mufflers were DOT requirements. But 65 hp was still brought to bear, and could get the semi-adjustable Marzocchi suspension into trouble, and challenge the 280mm brakes, at least temporarily. Recent cast alloy wheels wore 18-inch skins, and the bullet fairing cut a nice pocket in the windstream, beautifully rounded though the engine cases had the angles of the previous stylist, Giorgetto Guigiaro.

Offered by a recently opened workshop in Miami, the condition of this 900SS is at the higher end of the collector range. No history provided, but the bevel drive desmo is an all metal affair, so however unlikely, it might be ridden home. Unrestored condition is downright inspirational. Short notes from the eBay auction:

Unrestored all original 1982 Ducati 900SS in very nice condition. Was recently recommissioned. Inside of tank is rust free. The bike runs flawlessly as a new bike should.

900SS production numbers started out strong but dwindled to an unsustainable low, with just a few hundred rolling out each year. Managers took the brand another step away from sport the next year, with the more domestic S2. Luckily the belt driven cam desmodue, Castiglioni brothers, and revival of the Supersports were just around the corner. This reference quality example might be more at home in a live arena auction, but hopefully the new owner will be a RSBFS reader and drop us a comment.

-donn