Segment:
Sportbike, Supersport
Description:
The Ducati 900SS Supersport of 2001 represents a classic era of Italian sportbike engineering, known for its distinctive desmodromic valve actuation and charismatic V-twin engine.
Competitors Circa 2001:
Honda CBR600F, Yamaha YZF600R, Kawasaki ZX6R, Suzuki GSX-R600, Triumph TT600, Aprilia RS250 (for smaller displacement alternatives).
Desmodromic:
Unique desmodromic valve system requiring specific maintenance procedures outlined in the manual.
Engine Character:
Torquey V-twin character, distinct from inline-four Japanese competitors.
Handling:
Renowned for agile handling and Italian chassis dynamics.
Build Quality:
Emphasis on premium components and distinctive Italian design.
Benefit To Owner:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with factory-level diagnostic and repair knowledge.
Major Sections:
Body, Chassis & Electrical, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Pages:
Estimate between 300-500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)
Type:
Service Workshop Manual
Languages:
English, Italian
Compatibility:
Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, Linux, Mac
Engine:
Detailed overhaul, inspection, and adjustment procedures for the L-twin desmodromic engine.
Fuel System:
Carburetor identification, adjustment, cleaning, and overhaul (likely Keihin or Mikuni variants).
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, coil testing, spark plug specifications, and troubleshooting.
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, reassembly, and clutch operation.
Chassis Suspension:
Front fork (likely Showa or Marzocchi) overhaul, damper settings, and rear shock absorber adjustment and rebuild.
Braking System:
Brake caliper maintenance, master cylinder overhaul, brake fluid replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for lights, battery, starter, and instrumentation.
Bodywork Fairings:
Panel removal and installation, fairing repair, and related fasteners.
Maintenance:
Routine service tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, and valve clearance checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Repair Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly of major components.
Installation:
Procedures for fitting new parts or components.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data.
Depth:
Most Complete Workshop Manual Available
Diagnostic Tools:
Technical Diagnostic Procedures included, suggesting methods for fault finding.
Visual Aid Quality:
Numerous Illustrations & Diagrams
Authorship:
Written by the Manufacturer
Usage Context:
Used by the Dealership Mechanics
Type:
Air-cooled, L-twin (90° V-twin), Desmodromic 4-valve per cylinder
Displacement:
904 cc (actual displacement often around 904cc, derived from bore/stroke)
Bore X Stroke:
92 mm x 68 mm (typical for 900SS models)
Compression Ratio:
9.2:1 (approximate, may vary slightly)
Valve Actuation:
Desmodromic
Horsepower:
Approx. 72-78 HP @ 7500-8000 RPM (wheel horsepower will be lower)
Torque:
Approx. 75-80 Nm @ 5500-6000 RPM
Carburetion:
Twin Keihin CVK 39 mm carburetors (common for this year/model)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is assessed differently than cars; focus is on component integrity and handling)
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes (e.g., Brembo calipers), single rear disc brake.
Suspension:
Adjustable front forks and rear monoshock contribute to stable handling.
Frame:
Steel Trellis frame providing rigidity and predictable handling.
System:
N/A (Focus on performance and mechanicals, not modern infotainment systems)
Features:
N/A (No electronic rider aids like ABS or traction control on this model)
System:
Standard halogen headlight, tail light, and turn signals. Wiring diagrams in the manual cover these.
Oil Change:
Every 6,000 km or 1 year. Manual will specify exact interval and oil type.
Desmo Valve Check:
Every 12,000 km or 2 years. This is a critical and specialized procedure for Ducati.
Spark Plugs:
Check at 6,000 km, replace as needed. Manual will specify plug type and gap.
Chain Kit:
Inspect tension and lubrication every 1,000 km; replace when worn.
Engine Oil:
Typically SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 semi-synthetic or fully synthetic motorcycle oil meeting API SG or higher specification. Manual will provide precise recommendation and viscosity based on climate.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Coolant:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Clutch Fluid:
Typically DOT 4 hydraulic fluid (same as brakes, if hydraulic clutch system).
Desmo Adjustment:
Incorrect desmodromic valve adjustment can lead to poor running or engine damage; requires specialized knowledge and tools.
Carburetor Synchronization:
Carburetors may require periodic synchronization for smooth running.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion on connectors, particularly for older models, can cause intermittent electrical issues.
Fuel Petcock:
Vacuum-operated petcock can fail, leading to fuel leaks or difficulty in fuel delivery.
Manufacturer:
Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A., an Italian manufacturer with a rich racing heritage, particularly in MotoGP and World Superbike.
Supersport Lineage:
The Supersport line has been a cornerstone of Ducati's sportbike offerings since the 1970s, evolving through various engine sizes and chassis designs.
900Ss Development:
The 900SS models evolved from the earlier 851 and 888 models, offering a more accessible and road-focused sportbike experience with the iconic L-twin engine.
Production Period:
The 900SS was produced across various iterations from the early 1990s until the early 2000s. The 2001 model is part of the later series before the introduction of fuel injection on subsequent models.
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy
Automotive Press Reviews:
Ducati motorcycles of this era were often praised for their handling, engine character, and unique Italian style, though sometimes criticized for maintenance demands compared to Japanese counterparts. Specific awards are less common for individual model years compared to overall brand recognition.