Motorcycle.com

A Gem!

I weigh 230 lbs, live at 6500 feet and routinely ride through higher altitudes, so I was worried that an 800 twin would not have enough oomph. Not so. This little bike cooks. After a few weeks the beauty of the engine tone starts to get into your head and you just can't wait to hop on and make th...at little engine howl. The sound that desmo engine makes when you roll off the throttle is wonderful. My bike is stock, by the way. Stock pipes, too.

My main ride is a Harley Softail Custom, a bike that you are supposed to ride slow and easy, but I can seldom do that. I like to ride it fast and ragged.

But the Ducati is another animal altogether. The handling is so refined that it elevates your riding skills to another level. Even though it's much easier to ride fast than the Harley, it makes you want to be more subtle with your inputs, shift your weight more carefully, pick your lines more precisely. The more gently you ride it, the better it feels. And the faster you go.

The ergos also demand dedication. Use your abs, back, and legs, not your arms and wrists. Practice sitting on it in a riding position but without your hands on the bars and you'll realize what muscles you need to strengthen. I'm 55 and in good shape, but my weak point is my neck. Holding up my helmet in that position can really hurt. So I have to build up to it slowly. I did ride it for a full 8 hours one day, but my neck wound up pretty sore.

Carrying capacity sucks, so if you want to take extra gear, you'll need a tank bag. I can't stand the idea of covering up that beautiful tank, so I got a Kriega 20 (liter) bag for the back seat. I liked it so much I put in on my Harley, instead. But I think it will work quite well on the Ducati. Read Full Review

2006 Ducati Supersport 800

An awesome ride! Great handling with plenty of power.

I have had mine for two years now and greatly enjoy it on every Sunday ride.

I have had zero issues in almost 8,000 miles.

I wish Ducati had not retired that model in 2007. Seems like a shame. Read Full Review

My 800 SS tack/street bike

Picked up my Ducati 800 SS about a little over a year ago with the intent to have it for a track bike, that I could also ride on the street.



I immediately feel in love with the bike. The ride was great, handles extremely well and has all the power that I need for now.



Since purchasing it, i ha...ve purchase Shark Skinz for the track, added a steering dampner, adjustable front forks (from a 1000DS) and frame sliders. Currently changing out the front sproket gearing.

The bike has been great on the track and the street, in fact I rearly ride my monster.

My only complaints are ... that the clip ons sit a little low and over longer rides as I get tired it's a bit heavy in the hands. Also trying to find mods / replacements is really hard. It seems that no makes things for this year and model!! For instance I have been trying to find a slipper clutch for a year, unsuccessully. (This was the first year Ducati put a wet clutch on the bike). Rear tire is an issue in trying to find the right size in a track / racing tire. And trying to find any support is a bit tough...seems like there is more the 1000DS.

At the end of the day though when I get off the bike, it's hard to get the smile off my face. Read Full Review