Segment:
Sport-touring/Everyday Sportbike
Philosophy:
Offering accessible performance and Ducati styling for a wider audience.
Competitors:
Suzuki SV650, Honda VFR series, Kawasaki Ninja 650.
Distinguishing Factors:
Ducati's signature Desmodue engine, trellis frame, and iconic Italian design.
Engine Configuration:
L-twin (Desmodue) with 2 valves per cylinder.
Chassis Design:
Steel trellis frame.
Ergonomics:
More relaxed riding position compared to track-focused superbikes.
Engine Operation:
Detailed explanation of Desmodue engine, lubrication, cooling.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Mikuni BS32) or early fuel injection system description.
Ignition System:
Spark plug operation, ignition timing basics.
Transmission Operation:
6-speed gearbox, clutch operation, gear shifting procedures.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system (front and rear), disc brake operation, fluid checks.
Suspension:
Front forks (showa or marzocchi), rear monoshock, basic adjustment principles.
Electrical System:
Battery, lighting, starter system, basic electrical checks.
Chassis Frame:
Trellis frame, wheel mounting, basic chassis inspection points.
Routine Checks:
Pre-ride inspection, tire pressure, fluid levels (oil, brake fluid, coolant).
Basic Maintenance:
Oil and filter change, chain adjustment and lubrication, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Starting issues, running irregularities, dashboard warning lights.
Controls Operation:
Handlebar controls, dashboard indicators, rider ergonomics.
Storage And Transport:
Long-term storage, tie-down procedures.
Depth:
Owner-level maintenance, operational guidance, basic troubleshooting.
Diagnostics:
Limited diagnostic information; primarily focused on symptom identification.
Repair Scope:
Does not cover in-depth mechanical repairs or electronic diagnostics. Focuses on user-serviceable items.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, 2-valve per cylinder Desmodue L-twin
Displacement:
797 cc (approx. 797.03 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
94 mm x 71.5 mm (typical for 800cc Desmodue)
Compression Ratio:
9.5:1 (typical)
Valve Actuation:
Desmodromic
Horsepower:
Approx. 72-75 HP @ 8,000 RPM (depending on specific model year and tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 67-70 Nm (49-52 lb-ft) @ 6,000 RPM (depending on specific model year and tuning)
Fuel Delivery:
Dual 32mm Mikuni carburetors (early models) or electronic fuel injection (later models, though 800SS often carbureted).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 octane (RON)
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50, API SG, JASO MA (or equivalent full synthetic motorcycle oil)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 - 4.0 liters (including filter) - check manual for precise amount.
Type:
6-speed, constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, hydraulic actuation
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary by model year, but are designed for balanced sport-touring performance.
Final Drive:
O-ring sealed chain drive
Gearbox Oil Type:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil.
Length:
Approx. 2,120 mm (212 cm)
Width:
Approx. 750 mm (75 cm) at handlebars
Height:
Approx. 1,180 mm (118 cm) at seat
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,410 mm (141 cm)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 170-180 kg (375-397 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 195-205 kg (430-452 lbs) with fluids
Fuel Tank Capacity:
16 Liters (4.2 US Gallons)
Crash Safety:
No formal motorcycle crash ratings exist for this era/type of vehicle.
Braking System:
Dual front discs (320mm), single rear disc (245mm), Brembo calipers (often).
Tire Type:
Tubeless sport-touring radial tires.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight (model dependent).
Ergonomic Safety:
Balanced rider triangle for improved control and reduced fatigue.
Dashboard:
Analog tachometer and speedometer with LCD display for odometer, trip meters, and basic indicators.
ABS:
Not typically standard on this model era; ABS was an optional extra on some variants or introduced later.
Traction Control:
Not available on this model.
Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or smartphone integration.
Oil Filter Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 4,500 miles) or annually.
Desmo Service Valve Adjustment:
Every 10,000 - 12,000 km (6,000 - 7,500 miles) is critical for Desmodromic engines.
Chain Lubrication:
Every 500 - 1,000 km (300 - 600 miles) and after washing/rain.
Air Filter Check:
Check every 5,000 km (3,000 miles), clean/replace as needed.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or specified by Ducati), check and replace every 2 years.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water (if liquid-cooled variant).
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion at connectors, particularly in older models. Regular inspection and cleaning recommended.
Fuel Lines:
Potential for cracking or degradation over time, especially with certain fuel formulations. Inspect regularly.
Carburetor Tuning:
Can require periodic tuning for optimal performance, especially with age and miles.
Clutch Slave Cylinder:
Some models may exhibit leaks or wear in the hydraulic clutch slave cylinder. Check fluid levels and operation.
Desmo Valve Adjustment:
This is a critical maintenance item for Ducati. Failure to perform can lead to significant engine damage.
Legacy:
Ducati has a rich heritage in motorcycle racing and performance road bikes, known for V-twins and Desmodromic valve actuation.
Supersport Lineage:
The Supersport line has evolved from the iconic 750 Sport and 900SS models, offering a more accessible take on sportbike performance.
800Cc Variant:
The 800SS was introduced as an entry point into the Supersport family, often featuring carburetion and a slightly less potent tune than larger siblings.
Production Years:
The 800SS variant was produced roughly between the late 1990s and early 2000s (e.g., 1998-2002), predating the fuel-injected 800SS models.
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy
