Vehicle Segment:
High-performance, air-cooled V-twin sportbikes.
Key Competitors:
BMW R90S, Moto Guzzi V7 Sport, other contemporary European and Japanese sportbikes.
Engine Layout:
Air-cooled, 90-degree V-twin Desmodromic engine.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on performance, handling, and distinctive Italian styling.
Desmodromic Valvetrain:
Unique Ducati system ensuring positive valve closure, enabling higher RPMs and precise valve timing.
Manual Type:
Parts List / Parts Catalog
Language:
English (likely, common for Ducati manuals of this era)
Format:
Printed document (based on product description)
Estimated Page Count:
Variable, typically 100-250 pages for a comprehensive parts catalog of this era.
Engine Components:
Crankcase, cylinders, pistons, valves, camshafts, timing gears, oil pump, lubrication system.
Fuel System:
Carburetors (e.g., Dell'Orto), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel petcock.
Ignition System:
Ignition coils, distributors (if applicable), spark plugs, wiring.
Transmission Clutch:
Gearbox components, clutch assembly, drive sprocket, chain.
Frame Chassis:
Frame sections, swingarm, steering head, footpegs, mounting brackets.
Suspension Front:
Front fork components, springs, dampers, seals, triple clamps.
Suspension Rear:
Rear shock absorbers, mounting points, linkages (if applicable).
Braking System:
Brake calipers, master cylinders, brake lines, brake discs, brake pads.
Wheel Tire Assembly:
Rims, spokes, hubs, bearings, tires, brake discs mounting.
Electrical System:
Wiring harness, lights (headlight, taillight, turn signals), battery, alternator, starter motor.
Bodywork Fittings:
Fuel tank, seat, fenders, fairing (if applicable), exhaust system, instruments, controls.
Parts Identification:
Detailed diagrams and part numbers for every component.
Part Number Lookup:
Facilitates ordering correct replacement parts.
Level Of Detail:
Component-level breakdown with exploded view diagrams.
Target Audience:
Mechanics, technicians, and knowledgeable owners for parts identification and procurement.
Engine Type 750:
Air-cooled, 90-degree V-twin, 4-stroke, Desmodromic valve actuation.
Displacement 750:
748 cc (72mm bore x 90mm stroke)
Engine Type 900:
Air-cooled, 90-degree V-twin, 4-stroke, Desmodromic valve actuation.
Displacement 900:
864 cc (80mm bore x 86mm stroke)
Horsepower 750 Approx:
Approx. 60-65 hp @ 7,500 rpm
Horsepower 900 Approx:
Approx. 65-70 hp @ 7,000 rpm
Torque 750 Approx:
Approx. 60 Nm (44 lb-ft) @ 5,500 rpm
Torque 900 Approx:
Approx. 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) @ 5,500 rpm
Carburetors Standard:
2 x Dell'Orto PHM 40 CS (or similar, depending on market/specific model variant)
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 18-20 Liters (4.7-5.3 US Gallons), including reserve.
Safety Ratings:
Not applicable in the modern sense; safety features were basic.
Braking Performance:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake (typical configuration).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Desmo Service Interval:
Desmodromic valve clearance checks and adjustments are critical and typically required every 6,000-10,000 km (3,700-6,200 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or SAE 10W-40 motorcycle-specific mineral oil is commonly recommended. Consult original manual for precise specification.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 - 3.0 Liters (2.6 - 3.2 US Quarts) with filter change. Consult manual for exact capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (mineral oil not suitable).
Transmission Oil:
Separate gearbox; usually SAE 80 or SAE 75W-90 gear oil. Consult manual for specific viscosity.
Desmodromic Adjustment:
Valve clearance adjustment requires specialized knowledge and tools; improper adjustment can lead to engine damage.
Carburetor Tuning:
Dell'Orto carburetors can be sensitive and require regular cleaning and synchronization for optimal performance.
Electrical Reliability:
Older wiring harnesses may degrade, leading to intermittent electrical issues. Lucas components (if fitted) can be prone to issues.
Frame Cracks:
Some older Ducati frames, especially the early 'round case' models, can be susceptible to stress cracks around the engine mounts or steering head. Regular inspection is recommended.
Oil Leaks:
Common on older V-twins due to aging seals and gaskets. Regular inspection and replacement of seals (e.g., crank seals, gearbox seals) may be necessary.
Clutch Wear:
Dry clutches wear faster than wet clutches; proper adjustment is key to longevity. Clutch plates may need replacement.
Fuel Tank Corrosion:
If the fuel tank is steel and has been subjected to corrosive fuels or moisture, internal corrosion can occur, leading to fuel contamination.
Ducati Legacy:
Founded in 1926, Ducati has a rich history in motorcycle racing and performance engineering, particularly known for its V-twin engines and desmodromic valve system.
Desmo V Twin Lineage:
The 750 and 900 SS models were direct descendants of the earlier 750 GT and 750 Sport, evolving to offer increased performance and sportier ergonomics.
Sport Designation:
The 'SS' designation stood for 'Super Sport', indicating a focus on performance and racing-derived technology.
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy.
Production Period:
The 750 SS was produced from 1973-1977, and the 900 SS from 1975-1982.
Performance Reputation:
These models are celebrated for their distinctive engine character, sound, and handling, cementing Ducati's reputation for performance motorcycles.
Collectible Status:
Highly collectible vintage motorcycles, particularly well-preserved examples.
