🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
Ducati
Model:
860 GT / GTS, 900 SS, Mille GT
Generation
Generation Designation:
Square Case
Codes
Internal Project Codes:
DK101 (likely for manual development)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners of 1970s/1980s Ducati square-case V-twins
Value Proposition:
Comprehensive DIY repair and maintenance resource, saving money on professional labor and postage costs.
Competitive Analysis
Differentiation:
Guaranteed excellent quality, customer service, and instant download versus potentially inferior or incomplete 'imitation' manuals.
Key Features
Illustrations:
Hundreds of detailed illustrations and approximately 200 specific pictures
Text Readability:
Easy-to-read text
Appendices:
Complete appendices of technical specifications
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Applicable Models:
Ducati 860 GT, 860 GTS, 900 Super Sport (SS), Mille GT, Mike Hailwood Replica (MHR)
Page Count
Total Pages:
Hundreds (specific count not provided, but described as extensive)
Manual Type
Type:
PDF Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
V-twin, Desmodromic valve actuation, cooling systems (air), lubrication systems (wet/dry sump depending on model variant)
Transmission:
Gearbox (5-speed), clutch (dry or wet depending on model), drive chain
Electrical System:
Ignition system (points/electronic), lighting, charging system (alternator/generator), starter motor, wiring diagrams
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame construction (steel tube), front forks (conventional or leading axle), rear suspension (twin shock absorbers, swingarm)
Braking System:
Front and rear disc brakes (single or dual discs depending on model), brake caliper service, master cylinders, fluid lines
Fuel System:
Carburetors (e.g., Dell'Orto PHM), fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel petcock
Bodywork:
Fairings, fuel tank, seat, fenders, instrument cluster
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment, spark plug service, air filter cleaning/replacement, brake fluid flush
Troubleshooting:
Diagnosing engine performance issues, electrical faults, brake problems, starting difficulties
Repair:
Engine rebuilds (piston replacement, valve adjustments), transmission disassembly/reassembly, carburetor tuning, brake caliper overhaul, electrical component replacement
Disassembly And Reassembly:
Complete component-level breakdown and reassembly instructions
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed fault finding guides and diagnostic procedures
Rebuild Guidance:
Explicit instructions for engine, gearbox, and other major component rebuilds
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Yes, via PDF search function
Print Quality
Printability:
All pages printable
Image Quality:
High quality, with hundreds of illustrations (stated 200 pictures in description)
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (PDF format)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (PDF format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Configuration:
Air-cooled, 90-degree V-twin
Valve Actuation:
Desmodromic
Displacement 860:
860 cc (approx.)
Displacement 900:
900 cc (approx.)
Displacement Mille:
973 cc (approx.)
Performance
Horsepower 900Ss Approx:
60-70 HP (varies by specific model year and tuning)
Torque 900Ss Approx:
50-55 ft-lbs (varies by specific model year and tuning)
Fuel System
Carburetors:
Typically Dell'Orto PHM 36/40mm twin carburetors (specific models may vary)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-speed manual gearbox
Optional
Options:
N/A (5-speed standard for these models)
Features
Clutch:
Dry clutch (common on SS models) or wet clutch (early 860 models, later Mille)
Final Drive:
Chain drive
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
General Style:
Sportbike/Naked Sport
Weights
Dry Weight Approx 900Ss:
Approx. 195-205 kg (430-450 lbs)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
N/A (Technology of the era focused on mechanicals, basic instrumentation).
Driver Assistance
Assistance Features:
N/A
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
N/A
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually, consult manual for exact specifics.
Desmo Valve Adjustment Interval:
Every 6,000-10,000 km (3,700-6,000 miles), critical for performance and longevity.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 motorcycle-specific mineral or semi-synthetic oil recommended. Check manual for exact API classification.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific requirements).
Gearbox Oil Type:
Typically SAE 80W-90 or 90W hypoid gear oil (refer to manual for precise specification).
Known Issues
Desmodromic Valve Adjustment:
Requires specialized knowledge and tools; incorrect adjustment can lead to poor running or engine damage.
Electrical Reliability:
Older wiring looms can degrade; ignition components (coils, stators) can be a failure point.
Carburetor Tuning:
Sensitive to dirt and wear; requires careful synchronization and jetting for optimal performance.
Frame Cracks:
While generally robust, inspection for stress cracks around headstock or swingarm pivot is recommended on high-mileage machines.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Italian manufacturer renowned for performance motorcycles, especially V-twins.
Model Evolution
Development Context:
Followed the highly successful 750 Sport, introducing larger displacements and evolved chassis designs.
Key Variants Covered:
860 GT/GTS (cruiser-oriented), 900 Super Sport (performance focus), Mille GT (evolution of 900), Mike Hailwood Replica (homage to racer).
Production
Production Period:
Mid-1970s to mid-1980s
Manufacturing Origin:
Italy
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Model Recognition:
The 900 Super Sport and MHR are considered iconic and highly collectible motorcycles from their era, celebrated for performance and styling.
Ratings
General Reputation:
Highly regarded by enthusiasts for their character, performance, and the iconic desmodromic V-twin engine.