I only had the 900SS for a few days but managed to cover over 2,500 kilometres in that time with one day's jaunt amounting to 1,200 kilometres. Some of these stretches were over 300 kilometres without getting off the bike at all, which highlights the remarkable fuel economy achieved by the Ducati. 320 kilometres before the fuel light came on reminding me that 4 litres were left in the 18-litre tank and I found this to be accurate as I fitted exactly 14 litres into the tank when the light came on. This was speed limit riding in the rain that saw me return 23 kilometres per litre, which is remarkable for a big twin as most of the opposition have woeful fuel economy figures. But it must be said that the opposition bikes also make a lot more power; Suzuki's little SV650 would give the 900SS a run for its money in acceleration.

Braking is good but requires a little more effort through the lever than most Japanese set-ups. This is a trait I have found fairly constant through most Brembo braking systems, they work well it is just that a harder squeeze is needed to pull the bike up quick. When taking this into account the stoppers work very well indeed with plenty of power.

The dash layout seems very old fashioned by today's standards but apart from shaking about under vibration they caused me no problems.  You only get a tripmeter, speedo, tacho, temp gauge.  Warning lights for neutral (it lies a lot), oil, side stand, high beam, indicator and fuel.

Quality of cosmetic finish is generally excellent with the duco deserving a special mention. The Ducati's red bodywork has to have the best paint finish seen on any motorcycle. I had luggage strapped to the Ducati most of the time with duct tape on the panels to prevent the bags from rubbing the paint away. Even where some of the tape had gone and in other areas where there was no tape to protect the paint, the full surface lustre survived which is quite amazing. I can confidently say that any other bikes paint finish would have either rubbed through or at least have completely lost all its shine. The Ducati was unmarked; the 900SS will stay looking good for many years.

For 2001 the 900SS gained a 'gun-metal grey' frame and wheels, metallic silver-grey engine, new rear-view mirrors, grey seat, tank protector and 5-spoke wheels.

I see the 900SS as the bike for someone who doesn't think they need a lot of power. Maybe a good choice for someone just stepping up to the big-bore class and at a reasonably competitive price. 

But keep in mind that servicing is a little more expensive than on the Japanese opposition.  The 900SS is a sportsbike where keeping your licence does not have to be a constant battle, but still with enough pull for most on the street. 

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