1978 Ducati 900ss
Auction Gooding & Co Amelia Island 2024
Engine #087722
Frame #087484
Mileage: 5,352
Original paint, all waterslide decals intact
Original Ballanti Roberto screen,
Factory engine case seal
20-page authentication report
43 years between two friends
Moto Borgotaro has been lucky enough to have had some of the finest original 70s era Ducati’s pass through our hands. When this one was offered, there was no hesitation as to acquiring it, original examples are getting more and more difficult to find. This bike has had only two owners from its first landing at Keith Harte’s dealership in Ontario in 1978. Noted historian and contributing editor Ian Falloon believes that this is one of the finest 900 SSs that he has seen.
“1978 marks one of the most significant years in Ducati’s storied history as Mike Hailwood made his dramatic return to the Isle of Man — winning on a modified 900 SS prepared by Bologna race company NCR.” — MB
THIS BIKE’S HISTORY
This European specification late 1977 was imported by Keith Harte in 1978 and originally sold in Ontario. Over the next thirty-two years it was maintained in original condition and rarely used. The current speedometer reading of 8,614 kilometers (5,352 miles) indicates the average mileage was a meager 124 miles per annum.
As an example of a rare first series Bosch ignition Ducati 900 Super Sport, this bike is peerless. One of only an estimated 200 produced there would be very few, if any, of this model left in such untouched, perfect original condition. As such this motorcycle is unique and deserves to be preserved. Additionally, I believe this model (Bosch ignition, Borrani wheels) to represent the pinnacle of the 900 SS.
The engine was the most reliable and the Borranis signify the end to an earlier era of which the 900 SS really belongs. With its original water slide decals and less than perfect chrome and zinc plating this bike cannot be replicated by any restoration. Nothing needs to be restored or changed on this bike. In my mind it is perfect as it is and only requires careful storage and gentle cleaning.
—Ian Falloon, October 2021
DETAILS:
Engine #087722
Frame #087484
Mileage: 5,352
2-owners from new
Original paint
Original tires
Original Ballanti Roberto screen
Original case seal
Complete “Falloon Report”