Ducati Sporting Club UK > Model Specific - Discussion, Technical Problems and Help > Supersports: SS / SuperSport / Supersport 950 > Older 900 Supersport query

[JoeyFan]

Hi, I'm new to the list, just thought i'd say hi.

Whilst I'm here I guess I could also use some advice.

I have a UK spec 1990 Ducati 900 Super Sport, (the model before the 92-97 spec 900SS)

http://hayabusa.bikepics.com/ducati-...ics-049854.jpg

Its a terrific fun little bike and is seriously loud on stock cans! But unfortunately the rear shock is pretty much dead. Even on full stiff it pitches me up in the air over bad roads. I wonder if anyone could advise whether a later 900ss rear shock would fit as I can't find a supplier for my specific model.

The front end is pretty soft too, was thinking about maybe fitting an entire later front end. What would I need to measure to safely make changes like this?

Thanks (nice list)

Regards,

Dave

[KeefyB]

I had one of those.
The Marzocchi shock and forks on that model are all fully rebuildable.A reputable outfit like Maxton should be able to do this and revalve them to suit your weight and riding style.
If you want to go for a new shock,try Hagons.If they dont stock a replacement shock they can almost certainly make one.
If you are going to replace the forks then you need to measure the lenght of the forks,the travel of the forks and then the top/bottom yolk assembly.You would'nt want the front wheel hitting the engine under braking now,would you!
Personally,I would go down the rebuild route.The Marzocchis were superb when new and it could be the cheaper option.The bike also keeps the origional look.

[Derek]

For shock rebuild try UK Suspension in Bradford. They rebuilt my Showa unit and replaced the lower spherical bearing for about £75.

[SSTU]

Hi JoeyFan
Welcom to the board youv come to the right place for advise there is allways somebody who's got an answer for your questions.

[JoeyFan]

Thanks for the swift replies people, much appreciated.

This is the first Ducati Forum I have found where I have been able to actually get decent advice and I shall be applying to join the DSC forthwith (if my old girl qualifies) But I know I read somewhere you only liked "recent" Ducatis?

Anyway FYI the guys at Maxton have replied already, less than a working day!

Here's what they had to say:

DUCATI 900SS EARLY7

The forks are standard Marzocchi M1R type . There is damping in one side only. They give a very harsh ride. We do a fork conversion which takes out all the valving from both legs and fit our own valving system. Cost £230 plus VAT.

The rear unit is a Marzocchi unit and cannot be modified, the spring rate is approxamatly correct. The only thing we can offer is a replacement Maxton high pressure gas shock. Cost £405 plus VAT. We do not consider it necessary to fit a remote unit on this bike.

What do you think?

Not Cheap at all - but I really want to discover what this bike can do when set up nicely as the engine is sweet and has just had £1500 worth of work done.

I reckon I might get this done and make the old girl a "keeper"

Although I had wanted to go touring, and would need a new bike, but I suppose I still could go touring although the 13 litre tank doesnt help?!!!

Anyone riding to WDW 04? (frequent fuel stops guaranteed!)

ATB

Dave

[KeefyB]

Hagons list a shock for an '88 750 Sport (basically the same bike) for 255quid.

BTW,Maxton are wrong about the forks.They are not the M1R type.They were only fitted to the early 851's and some Paso's.Your 40mm Marzocchi's are non adjustable.

[Jools]

Originally posted by JoeyFan
But I know I read somewhere you only liked "recent" Ducatis?

Nah mate, love em all! There are loads of owners of older bikes on the forum or people who've owned them in the past. I'd love to see 'em on ride outs as well.

[Iconic944ss]

Hi Dave, welcome on board...

Nice bike !!!!

I'm quite happy so far with the White Power rear shox I got for my 1992 900ss. I still have the old shox but its the type with a remote res. and I'm not sure it would fit yours.

I paid £350 for my rear and am well pleased with the quality although the improvement in handling was not quite the quantum leap I expected.

Good Luck - Frank

[Imola900]

I have a second hand rear shock absorber from a 1995 Superlight that's going cheap if you are interested. It may be suitable.
Ring me on 07747 627287
Regards
Brian Morris

[nelly]

Try Andy White at Kais 01942 896366 or K-Tech on 01530 810625.