Buell Vs. Ducati 900 Supersport
by
Brent Avis
Published: May 29th, 2002
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From the desk of John Burns:
Look, I'm not saying that if somebody offered me my choice ofDucatis I'd pick this Senna replica 900 Supersport over a new 998, but I'd have to think aboutit. Obviously the 998 is much more powerful and far more trackworthy, but I mean if I waslooking for a STREETBIKE, I think I prefer the SS. The controversial Terblanche plastic hasgrown on me, for one thing, the ergos and seat of the SS are friendlier--and maybe I'm gettingold, but something about the old air-cooled two-valve twin makes me feel like I'm having apurer Ducati experience; it rumbles and clatters a little more--and I know for a fact it's fairlyeasy and inexpensive to turn these engines into midrange monsters. Fat midrange, shortergearing than the 998, 20 pounds less weight, a 15mm shorter wheelbase and higherclip-ons--add up to a bike which needs no excuses and has no trouble keeping up with anysort of street pack.
Get Motorcycle.com in your InboxLook, I'm not saying that if somebody offered me my choice ofDucatis I'd pick this Senna replica 900 Supersport over a new 998, but I'd have to think aboutit. Obviously the 998 is much more powerful and far more trackworthy, but I mean if I waslooking for a STREETBIKE, I think I prefer the SS. The controversial Terblanche plastic hasgrown on me, for one thing, the ergos and seat of the SS are friendlier--and maybe I'm gettingold, but something about the old air-cooled two-valve twin makes me feel like I'm having apurer Ducati experience; it rumbles and clatters a little more--and I know for a fact it's fairlyeasy and inexpensive to turn these engines into midrange monsters. Fat midrange, shortergearing than the 998, 20 pounds less weight, a 15mm shorter wheelbase and higherclip-ons--add up to a bike which needs no excuses and has no trouble keeping up with anysort of street pack.
It seemed only natural to compare the old 900 SS to the all-new Buell XB9R, to us at least. The old ItalianL-twin must still have some adherents, obviously, since it makes up a big chunk of Ducatisales...
So, of course, now let us know what you think of the two bikes.
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