900ss - Perfect Balance
Written: Nov 19 '99
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Versatile; Great Design
Cons: bad mirrors; service cost may add up
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| edmo's Full Review: 2000 Ducati Super Sport |
The SuperSport series is the perfect bike if you are looking for a bike that can do all things well. I use my '96 900SS for daily commuting within the city, 'spirited' backroad riding, and multi-day touring. Of course, if you were interested in only one of the above, Ducati makes models that are more use-specific.
The things I love about the 900ss is the ride itself - the low-center of gravity lets you get the bike into/out of a lean as soon as soon as you think about it. It has a huge powerband, so even if you get into a corner one gear high, you can still get enough power to the wheel. These things end up improving your control and the bike actaully makes you a better rider!
There are a couple of little things that do bother about the bike as well. The biggest thing is the rear-view mirrors, no matter how you position them, you will get nothing but a view of your elbows! All 900SS riders develop an "arm-drop, head shift" in order to get a look behind. You may not think its a big deal until you hear the siren behind you when you're doing 90. The auto-retracting kick stand is also a drag (you can 'fix' it, but I'll leave that up to you to find out how; its a common 'repair')
No review would be complete without a discussion of costs - nowadays the purchase price for ducatis is comparable to alot of the japanese bikes. but be sure you understand the upkeep costs. Part costs are about the same as the japanese bikes, but Ducks have shorter service cycles than other makes. Doing all the minor service yourself and taking it in only for the major tune-ups is always the best plan. Be sure to check that the shop rates are fair (but also don't trust the tune ups to just any shop - some mechanics have never even seen desmodronic valves!)
While I am recommending the 900ss as a great bike, I would not recommend it to anyone as their first bike. The dry clutch is more difficult to control than other bikes' wet clutch. Also, you need experienced throttle control to handle the power - the bike will not be too forgiving if you accidentally pop open the throttle.
That's all i can say about my experience with the 900ss - always make your decision on your test ride (try to get more than a ride around the block)
edmo.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
edmo
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Location: California
Reviews written: 31
Trusted by: 15 members
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