Model Variant:
Supersport 750, Supersport 900, Supersport 1000 (likely, based on typical model year offerings)
Generation:
Second Generation (often referred to as the '900SSie' or evolution of the earlier models)
Chassis Code:
DM (Ducati Motor) followed by model specific codes, e.g., DM00 for 750SS, DM01 for 900SSie, DM03 for 1000DS variants introduced later in the generation.
Engine Code Prefix:
DS (Desmodromic Super) for later models, older ones would reference their respective engine families like 750 or 900.
Market Position:
The Ducati Supersport series of this era represented a more accessible entry into the Ducati sportbike experience compared to the flagship superbikes. It offered a blend of sporty performance with a more comfortable, upright riding position suitable for sport touring and everyday riding, directly competing with other sport-touring motorcycles.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against models like the Honda VFR750/VFR800, Suzuki RF600/RF900, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R/ZX-9R, and Yamaha YZF750/YZF1000 Thunderace, offering a distinct Italian flair and V-twin character.
Key Features:
Iconic Ducati V-twin engine, Desmodromic valve actuation, trellis frame, comfortable ergonomics for a sportbike, capable handling, distinctive Italian styling.
Systems Covered:
Engine operation, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled), transmission, clutch, brakes (hydraulic), suspension (front telescopic forks, rear monoshock), electrical system (lighting, battery, charging, ignition), instrumentation, controls, chassis, wheels, tires, frame, safety features.
Braking System:
Hydraulic disc brakes front and rear, including specifications for fluid type, brake pad replacement guidance, and general inspection procedures.
Suspension System:
Front telescopic forks (e.g., Showa or Marzocchi), rear adjustable monoshock absorber. Manual covers basic inspection and adjustment possibilities (preload).
Electrical System:
Battery type and capacity, charging system (alternator), ignition system overview, fuse box location and identification, lighting system operation.
Chassis And Frame:
General information about the trellis frame, basic inspection points.
Wheels And Tires:
Specifications for tire sizes and recommended pressures, basic wheel inspection.
Procedures Included:
Pre-ride checks, basic maintenance (oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment, spark plug inspection/replacement, brake fluid checks, tire pressure), storage recommendations, operation of instruments and controls, emergency procedures, basic troubleshooting of common operational issues.
Tire Maintenance:
Recommended tire pressures for front and rear, inspection of tire wear and condition.
Battery Care:
Instructions on checking battery terminals, charging the battery, and basic removal/installation.
Troubleshooting Common Problems:
Basic guidance on issues like hard starting, engine misfiring (e.g., checking spark plugs, fuel delivery), electrical system faults (e.g., checking fuses, battery). Will point towards professional service for complex issues.
Technical Depth:
Covers operational and routine maintenance aspects for the end-user. Does not typically include detailed engine disassembly, transmission rebuild procedures, or complex electrical diagnostic procedures which would be found in a dedicated Service Manual.
Troubleshooting Scope:
Limited to user-addressable issues such as fluid levels, tire pressures, basic electrical checks (fuses, battery), and general operational guidance. Complex diagnostics require a service manual.
Engine Type:
Desmodromic L-Twin (90-degree V-Twin), four-stroke
Valve Actuation:
Desmodromic
Bore X Stroke 750:
Approx. 80 mm x 74 mm
Bore X Stroke 900:
Approx. 92 mm x 68 mm
Bore X Stroke 1000:
Approx. 98 mm x 66 mm
Displacement 750:
748 cc (for the 750SS variant)
Displacement 900:
904 cc (for the 900SS variant)
Displacement 1000:
992 cc (for early 1000DS Supersports, though some may have arrived slightly after 2002 model year designation)
Horsepower 750 Approx:
65-70 HP @ 8,500 RPM
Horsepower 900 Approx:
70-75 HP @ 7,500 RPM
Horsepower 1000 Approx:
85-90 HP @ 8,000 RPM
Torque 900 Approx:
77 Nm (57 lb-ft) @ 6,500 RPM
Compression Ratio Approx:
9.2:1 to 10.0:1 (varies by specific engine variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (Mikuni BST40) for earlier models, Fuel Injection (Weber Marelli or similar) for later 'ie' models and 1000cc variants.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON (Octane rating may vary based on region and specific model variant)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not typically assigned automotive safety ratings like NCAP)
Active Features:
Disc brakes (dual front, single rear), linked braking system (on some variants, though less common on Supersports of this era compared to others), responsive suspension.
Passive Features:
Standard lighting, horn, mirrors.
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation: Tachometer, speedometer, odometer, trip meter, warning lights (oil pressure, neutral, turn signals, high beam, engine diagnostics).
Driver Assistance Features:
None typically. Focus is on the riding experience.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. (Refer to manual for exact specification).
Desmo Service Interval:
Desmodromic valve clearance check/adjustment typically every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 24 months. This is a critical Ducati maintenance procedure. (Refer to manual for exact specification).
Belt Replacement Interval:
Timing belt replacement is crucial and typically recommended every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 24 months. Belts are a critical wear item. (Refer to manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ certified, SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle-specific synthetic or semi-synthetic oil. (Refer to manual for exact specification).
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic fluid (for clutch master cylinder).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 hydraulic fluid (for brake master cylinders).
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Chain Lubricant:
Specific motorcycle chain lubricant (e.g., for O-ring or X-ring chains).
Known Issues:
Premature wear of exhaust valve guides (especially on air-cooled models), potential issues with voltage regulators/rectifiers, fuel line degradation on carbureted models, clutch slave cylinder leaks, and the critical importance of adhering to the desmodromic valve service schedule to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Critical Maintenance Points:
Regular inspection and replacement of timing belts, meticulous desmodromic valve adjustments, ensuring the dry clutch operates correctly, and checking electrical connections.
Brand Heritage:
Ducati, an Italian manufacturer, has a rich history dating back to 1926, renowned for its performance motorcycles, particularly those featuring the Desmodromic valve system and L-twin engines, and a strong racing pedigree in MotoGP and World Superbike.
Model Evolution:
The Supersport line evolved from earlier Ducati models, becoming a more accessible sportbike platform. The 1990s saw the introduction of the 900SSie (Sport), which featured fuel injection and updated styling. The 2002 model year represents a continuation of this lineage, potentially including the introduction or refinement of the 1000cc DS engine in certain markets.
Production Period:
The Ducati Supersport line, in various iterations, was produced from the late 1970s through the early 2000s. The specific 2002 models are part of the later generation.