1983 Ducati 900 S2 Motorcycle

Description

Known as the S2, Ducati’s successor for the long-running Super Sport series was finally launched in 1982 using a frame similar to the later 900 Mike Hailwood Replica, while the styling was an evolution of the earlier Super Sports.  Produced in both kick start and electric start versions, the former shared the 900 MHR’s engine whereas the latter carried over the SS’s square-case unit.  The air-cooled four-stroke twin used Ducati’s bevel drive with a desmodromic overhead camshaft, a five-speed gearbox and Marzocchi front and rear forks.  Front and rear 280mm discs (twin up front) proved more than adequate, while the 18-litre fuel tank featured a lockable recessed filler cap.  Although it was only produced for three years between 1982 and 1984, the S2’s specification varied considerably from year to year, later examples usng the instrument cluster from the later 900 MHR, while the indicators were mounted in the fairing on early versions, while later ones were on stalks.  Some 1984 models came with badges instead of decals and had a belly pan under the motor.  The 900 Super Sport proved a tough act to follow and the S2 wasn’t considered a commercial success, just 1,236 were produced and today this vastly underrated bike is an affordable way into vintage Ducati ownership.