Ducati 1000SS - Review Test Motorcycle Comparison

Frankly, I was taken aback by how good this new 1000SS proved to be. The only thing it has in common with the previous 900SS, from a rider’s point of view, is a similar feel to the way it handles and a familiar riding position. In nearly every other area of riding the new machine is light years ahead. It is so much better that while I saw the 900SS at $16,495 as perhaps too expensive for what the machine provided, I can now look at the $1,000 more expensive 1000SS and actually see some reasonable value for money with the new model.

Perhaps in isolation the 1000SS would not have impressed quite so much. But when put up against the model it replaces, it shines very brightly indeed.

Ducati 1000SS - Specifications

Engine - L twin cylinder, 2 valves per cylinder Desmodromic; air cooled
Displacement - 992 cc
Bore x Stroke - 94x71.5 mm
Compression Ratio - 10:1
Claimed Power - 85.5hp (63kw) @ 7750 rpm
Measured Power - 82.6hp @ 7750 rpm
Claimed Torque - 87.5 Nm @ 5750 rpm
Measured Torque - 86.3 Nm @ 5750 rpm
Induction - Electronic Fuel injection, Marelli, 45 mm throttle bodies
Gearbox - 6 speed
Final drive - Chain; Front sprocket 15; Rear sprocket 38
Clutch - Dry multiplate with hydraulic control
Frame - Tubular steel trellis
Wheelbase - 1,395 mm
Rake - 24°
Front suspension - Showa 43 mm upside-down fully adjustable fork
Front brakes - 2 x 320 mm semi-floating discs, fixed 4-piston calipers
Front wheel - 5 spoke light alloy 3.50 x 17
Front tyre - 120/70 ZR 17
Rear suspension - Progressive cantilever linkage with fully adjustable Ohlins monoshock. Ride height adjustable
Rear brake - 245 mm disc, 2-piston caliper
Rear wheel - 5 spoke light alloy 5.50 x 17
Rear tyre - 180/55 ZR 17
Fuel tank capacity - 16 litres (including 4 litre reserve)
Weight - 188 kilograms
Seat height - 820 mm
Warranty - Two years
RRP - $17,495