With the passing of the round-case 750 SS, Ducati needed a new motorcycle to lead its sporting lineup, and in 1975 it released the 900 Super Sport, with an engine based on the square-case 860 GT. With desmodromic cylinder heads, 40 mm Dell’Orto carburetors, and an intoxicating sound from its Conti mufflers, the 900 SS evolved into one of the greatest of all Ducati’s production models. The updated 900 SS appeared for 1979, available now in black and gold, and it featured a stronger crankshaft, and an improved ignition and gearshift. Emphasizing uncompromised performance and handling, the Super Sport came to symbolize Ducati’s sporting prowess.

This example was initially delivered to Bendix engineer Carl Herbert-Glanz in Hamburg, Germany in 1981. The 900 SS was later sold to Jorg Zimmer of Ingolstadt, Bavaria in 1996. It was used sparingly until noted New York Ducati collector Stuart Parr bought it in 2014. The consignor, a collector of the finest Italian motorcycles, acquired it in 2020. The Super Sport showed just over 8,100 km (5,000 miles) when catalogued, and according to an accompanying 24-page report by marque expert Ian Falloon, it remains in exceptional original condition. Falloon believes it even still retains its original Pirelli Phantom tires. In addition to its superb original presentation, this 900 SS retains many rare and original details, including its Plexiglas windscreen with its Roberto Ballanti decal and original metal trim. Mr. Falloon also believes the windscreen fasteners are original and that the KLG spark plug caps are correct. Additionally, the Ducati is documented with a report by marque specialist Peter Boggia of Moto Borgotaro in Brooklyn, New York.

This 900 SS is an extraordinary, preservation-class example of one of Ducati’s most coveted models and would be a star of any Italian motorcycle collection.