Market Segment:
High-performance sport motorcycle
Historical Context:
Represented a significant evolution in Ducati's sportbike offerings, known for their distinctive L-twin engines and desmodromic valve systems.
Primary Competitors:
Other European sportbikes of the era, such as BMW R-series, Moto Guzzi V-twin models, and some larger capacity Japanese sportbikes.
Engine Design:
Revolutionary desmodromic valve actuation, providing precise valve control at high RPM.
Handling And Braking:
Renowned for excellent handling and braking performance, particularly the front disc brake.
Engine Systems:
Desmodromic valve operation, carburetion (Dell'Orto), ignition system (Ducati/Motoplat), lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), starting system.
Transmission Systems:
Gearbox operation, clutch operation (dry clutch), final drive (chain).
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front telescopic forks, rear swingarm with twin shock absorbers), braking system (front disc brake, rear drum brake), wheels and tires.
Electrical Systems:
Lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), instrumentation (speedometer, tachometer), battery, wiring diagrams (likely basic overview).
Routine Maintenance:
Pre-ride checks, oil level checks, chain adjustment, tire pressure, brake pad wear checks, spark plug inspection.
Basic Adjustments:
Carburetor idle adjustment, clutch and throttle cable adjustments, brake lever adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Basic starting issues, ignition problems, fuel system concerns (common to owner's manuals of this era).
Depth Of Coverage:
Owner-focused basic operation, maintenance, and simple adjustments. Not a full workshop/service manual for complex repairs or diagnostics.
Digital Format If Applicable:
N/A (Product description indicates printed)
Print Quality Estimation:
Likely standard quality for 1970s automotive publications; may vary. Original manuals from this era often featured good quality paper and printing.
Binding Type Estimation:
Typically saddle-stitched or stapled for owner's manuals of this period.
Paper Type Estimation:
Likely semi-gloss or matte finished paper, durable for regular use.
Engine Configuration:
750SS: 748cc L-twin; 900SS: 864cc L-twin
Bore X Stroke 750Ss:
77 mm x 80 mm (typical)
Bore X Stroke 900Ss:
80 mm x 86 mm (typical)
Horsepower 750Ss:
Approximately 60-65 HP (estimated)
Horsepower 900Ss:
Approximately 65-70 HP (estimated)
Torque 750Ss:
Approximately 60-65 Nm (estimated)
Torque 900Ss:
Approximately 70-75 Nm (estimated)
Carburetor Type:
Dell'Orto PHM 40 (typically twin carbs)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (though leaded may have been common at the time of original publication, unleaded is generally recommended for modern use with appropriate octane)
Safety Ratings Era:
No formal crash ratings in the modern sense. Safety features were primarily mechanical.
Braking System:
Front: Single Disc brake (often Brembo); Rear: Drum brake.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 km or annually (refer to manual for precise interval).
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Desmodromic valve clearance checks/adjustments are critical and often recommended every 6,000-10,000 km, though specialist knowledge is required.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 5,000-7,000 km, depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 motorcycle specific oil (mineral-based typically recommended for this era).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 2.5 - 3.0 liters (check dipstick/sight glass).
Gearbox Oil Type:
Hypoid gear oil SAE 80W/90 or 85W-90 (specific recommendations in manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for exact specification, though DOT 3 was more common then).
Common Wear Items:
Valve guides, camshaft wear (due to early lubrication technology), clutch plates (dry clutch wear), electrical connectors, fuel tank sealant degradation.
Desmo System Considerations:
Desmodromic valve adjustment requires precision and specialized knowledge; incorrect adjustment can lead to poor performance or engine damage.
Electrical Reliability:
Older wiring harnesses can degrade; electrical connectors may corrode, leading to intermittent faults.
Ducati Legacy:
Ducati has a rich history in motorcycle racing and performance, founded on innovation in engine design, particularly with its desmodromic valve system.
Development Context:
The 750SS and 900SS were direct descendants of Ducati's successful 750GT and 750 Sport models, evolving into more potent sportbikes for the street and track.
Production Period:
1972-1974 for 750GT/Sport, leading into the 750SS and 900SS from circa 1975 through 1977.
Notable Achievements:
The 750SS and 900SS were instrumental in establishing Ducati's reputation for V-twin performance and handling in the mid-1970s, including successes in endurance racing.
Racing Heritage:
Ducati's overall racing pedigree directly influences the perception and desirability of road bikes like the SS series.
Contemporary Reviews:
These models were widely acclaimed for their performance, handling, and unique character, often praised by motorcycle journalists of the era.
Manufacturer Certification:
The manual itself is a manufacturer-certified document intended for owners of the specified Ducati models.
