Ducati 750 SS (1973-1975): A Timeless Desmo Legend Revisited

Introduction

The Ducati 750 SS is a motorcycle that needs no introduction among vintage enthusiasts. Produced from 1973 to 1975, this Italian icon represents a pivotal moment in Ducati’s history, blending racing pedigree with street-legal practicality. With its signature L-twin engine, desmodromic valves, and minimalist design, the 750 SS remains a benchmark for raw, analog motorcycling. In this review, we’ll explore what makes this machine a legend and why it still captivates riders decades after its discontinuation.

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Design & Styling: Function Over Frills

The Ducati 750 SS is a study in purposeful design. Its tubular steel frame, teardrop fuel tank, and solo seat echo its racing DNA. The 800 mm (31.5-inch) seat height feels surprisingly approachable, even for shorter riders, while the clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs create a committed riding posture. The 38 mm telescopic forks and twin shock absorbers are rudimentary by modern standards but contribute to the bike’s lightweight agility at 204-205 kg (450-452 lbs).

The SS’s visual drama comes from its exposed mechanics: the air-cooled L-twin engine dominates the frame, flanked by wire-spoke wheels and a slender tail section. Chrome accents and Ducati’s signature red paint scheme complete the 1970s flair. This isn’t a motorcycle that hides behind fairings—it’s a mechanical exhibitionist.

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Engine & Performance: The Birth of the Desmo Roar

At the heart of the 750 SS lies its 748 cc 90-degree L-twin engine, producing between 50-54 kW (68-73 hp). Those numbers might seem modest today, but the engine’s character is anything but. The desmodromic valve system—where valves are mechanically closed instead of relying on springs—allows for higher revs and relentless power delivery.

Starting the engine is an event. The kickstarter (yes, no electric start here) demands conviction, but the payoff is immediate: a deep, guttural exhaust note that transitions into a metallic howl as the tachometer climbs. Power builds linearly from 3,500 RPM, with a visceral surge around 6,000 RPM. The 5-speed transmission requires deliberate shifts, and the chain final drive reminds you this is a machine that demands engagement.

Top speed? Around 200 km/h (124 mph), though sustaining that velocity on a vintage bike with period-correct tires and brakes is an act of faith. This engine isn’t about numbers—it’s about sensation. The vibrations through the handlebars, the heat rising from the cylinders, and the mechanical symphony create an experience no modern bike can replicate.

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Handling: A Dance of Lightweight Precision

Weighing just over 200 kg (441 lbs), the 750 SS feels shockingly nimble. The narrow profile and centralized mass let you flick it through corners with intuitive ease. The 38 mm front forks and twin rear shocks lack adjustability, but their simplicity works in the bike’s favor—less to overthink, more to feel.

Push it into a bend, and the SS responds with telepathic steering. The narrow tires (3.50-18 front, 4.10-18 rear) offer ample grip for spirited riding, though they’ll protest loudly if you push too hard on wet roads. Braking is handled by a single 280 mm front disc (a novelty in the 1970s) and a rear drum. The front brake requires a firm squeeze, but modulation is excellent once you adapt to its vintage character.

This isn’t a bike for lazy Sunday rides. The riding position demands core strength, and the suspension communicates every crack in the pavement. But for those willing to participate, the 750 SS rewards with a purity of feedback that modern electronics can’t simulate.

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Competition: How the Ducati Stood Out

In the 1970s, the 750 SS faced fierce rivals:

1. Honda CB750 K4: The CB750’s inline-four engine was smoother and more reliable, with electric start and a 67 hp output. But it lacked the Ducati’s racing pedigree and visceral character.
2. Laverda 750 SFC: Another Italian contender, the SFC matched the Ducati’s power but weighed 25 kg (55 lbs) more. Its endurance racing heritage was impressive, but the Ducati’s desmo engine gave it a technical edge.
3. Moto Guzzi V7 Sport: The Guzzi’s 748 cc V-twin shared the Ducati’s displacement but used a simpler pushrod design. Its shaft drive was lower maintenance, but the engine couldn’t rev as freely.

The Ducati’s trump card was its exclusivity. Only 401 units were produced, making it a rare sight even in its heyday. While rivals focused on refinement, the 750 SS doubled down on raw, unfiltered motorcycling—a philosophy that still defines Ducati today.

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Maintenance: Keeping the Legend Alive

Owning a 750 SS is a labor of love, but MOTOPARTS.store has you covered with critical components:

• Desmodromic Valves: The valve clearances require meticulous adjustment every 5,000 km (3,100 miles). Our store stocks OEM-spec shim kits and timing tools.
• Ignition System: The NGK BPR7HS and BPR7HIX spark plugs (gap: 0.6 mm / 0.024 in) are available in our catalog. Pair them with our high-performance ignition coils for sharper throttle response.
• Chain Care: The chain drive needs regular lubrication. We recommend MOTOPARTS’s premium chain kits, including X-ring chains and weather-resistant lubes.
• Brake Fluid: DOT 4 fluid is essential for maintaining brake performance. Our synthetic DOT 4 offers higher boiling points for spirited riding.
• Cooling: Air-cooled engines run hot in traffic. Our engine oil cooler kits help manage temperatures during summer rides.

Pro Tip: Always warm up the engine thoroughly before pushing it hard. Cold starts can lead to premature wear on the desmo gear.

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Conclusion: Why the 750 SS Still Matters

The Ducati 750 SS isn’t just a motorcycle—it’s a time capsule. Riding one today is a reminder of when bikes were mechanical artworks, unburdened by emissions controls or rider aids. Its flaws (and it has a few) are part of its charm, requiring a level of skill and attention that modern riders rarely exercise.

For collectors, it’s a blue-chip investment. For riders, it’s a masterclass in analog thrills. And for MOTOPARTS.store enthusiasts, it’s a canvas for customization and preservation. Whether you’re restoring one or simply dreaming of the desmo roar, the 750 SS remains a monument to motorcycling’s golden age.

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Specifications sheet

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