900 SL Superlight

1996 Ducati 900 SL Superlight Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

At the heart of the 1996 Ducati 900 SL Superlight sport motorcycle, Ducati pairs a 904 cc (55.2 cu in) v2, four-stroke architecture with road-focused gearing. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 80 HP (58.4 kW) at 7,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 83.4 Nm (61.5 lb-ft) at 6,400 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 88.5 HP per liter and a 600 rpm working window between peak torque (6,400 rpm) and peak power (7,000 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.

On the scales, the 900 SL Superlight measures 182 kg (401 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.44 HP/kg (2.28 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 750 mm (29.5 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops.