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Ducati 1000SS motorcycle review - Riding

Ducati 1000SS (2002-2006)

Detail	Value
Engine size	992 cc
Power	84 bhp
Top speed	134 mph
Insurance group	14 of 17

	MCN ratings	Owners' ratings
Overall
Engine
Ride & Handling
Equipment
Quality & Reliability
Value

MCN overall verdict

It’s difficult to pigeonhole the Ducati 1000SS. It’s definitely no full-on sports motorcycle, but you couldn’t really claim to tour on it, either. It’s hugely charming, but is not really the sort of motorcycle to thrash. Best not to worry about all that and simply revel in the Ducati 1000SS' easy handling, V-twin soundtrack and retro looks.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

The Ducati 1000SS' air-cooled dual spark motor coughs up just over 80bhp, but thanks to clever gearing and oodles of torque the motorcycle never feels all that breathless, despite having to cart about well over 200kg (once you’ve dialled in the fuel load). Only the Ducati 1000SS' snatchy injection spoils things in town.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

Definitely the Ducati 1000SS’s strongest suit – it genuinely feels as though it handle at least another 20bhp with ease. The Showa suspension complements the trellis frame perfectly. There are some vibes through the Ducati 1000SS' frame and bars, but nothing too intrusive.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

The Ducati 1000SS has an ignition-based immobiliser, an Ohlins shock that lets you adjust the motorcycle's seat height independently of the preload and fully-adjustable forks.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

Ducati motorcycles have come a very long way from the electrical and mechanical horror stories of yore. However, regular servicing is crucial with a Ducati 1000SS, especially the pricey (£750-£800), but essential, cam belt replacements every two years or 12,000 miles. Avoid any Ducati 1000SS without a full dealer service history.

MCN rating
Owners' rating

The Ducati 1000SS represents poor value for money if your only interest is getting from A to B quickly. Secondhand values aren’t particularly strong either for this motorcycle, so in pure monetary terms it’s a tough motorcycle to recommend. However – the Ducati 1000SS' handling, charm and sheer difference are qualities hard to ignore. Find a Ducati 1000SS for sale.

Insurance group: 14 of 17

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Oct 2002: Ducati 1000SS motorcycle launched (replacing previous Ducati 900SS series).

None.

Specifications

Top speed	134 mph
1/4-mile acceleration	12.2 secs
Max power	84 bhp
Max torque	70 ft-lb
Weight	188 kg
Seat height	820 mm
Fuel capacity	16 litres
Average fuel consumption	45 mpg
Tank range	160 miles
Annual road tax
Insurance group	14 of 17

Engine size	992 cc
Engine specification	8v V-twin, 6 gears
Frame	Steel trellis
Front suspension adjustment	Preload, Rebound, Compression
Rear suspension adjustment	Preload, ride height, compression, rebound
Front brakes	Twin 320mm discs
Rear brake	245mm disc
Front tyre size	120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size	180/55 x 17

Owners' Overall Rating (2 reviews)

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If you want to enjoy your life, you should get on SS1000DS.

mos1

Average rating

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Overall
Ride and Handling
Equipment
Quality and Reliabilty
Value
Engine

As for the performance, Japanese motorcycles are far more excellent. But, The developers of this bike know the reason why people get on motorcycles. Strengths: Engine sound, excellent handling. Weaknesses: poor Rear brake.

29 August 2006
Ducati SS1000DS

gt12k

Average rating

Show Details

Overall
Ride and Handling
Equipment
Quality and Reliabilty
Value
Engine

Fabulous to look at. Crap 2-up over long journeys. (No space). Suspension too hard unless you ride it round the 'ring every week. Don't bother if you've had any form of injury to you wrist, hand or neck. Town/city riding will kill you. I had mine for 4 months/3,000 miles and have just changed to a SV1000SZ. What a difference. Good luck. Strengths: It's looks. It's sound. It's finish with the attention to detail. Superb. Weaknesses: Too small, no pillion space, suspension too hard for everyday use and no wind protection above 90. Oh, and the service bills. £190 for the 600 miler. Forget it.

10 September 2005