In 1997, the Italian motorcycle manufacturer launched the Ducati 600SS, a sports motorcycle in its fourth year of production, wearing the same specifications as previous models without significant modifications.
The bike was part of the smaller displacement series in Ducati's range, comprising the 1991-1993 Ducati 350SS, 1989-1997 400SS, and 1994-1999 600SS models. All models were available with a full or half fairing.
The 1997 600SS model had standard features, such as a dual seat with a passenger grab handle, a single-sided exhaust system, three-spoke lightweight cast-aluminum wheels, a square headlight, a medium-sized windscreen, and a full fairing.
In the performance department, the 1997 Ducati 600SS had installed a 583cc four-stroke air-cooled V-twin engine underneath its fuel tank, delivering fuel to the pistons via two Mikuni carburetors. As for the power figures, the engine produced 53 hp at 8,250 rpm and 52 Nm (38 lb-ft) torque at 7,000 rpm.
The engine was married to a five-speed manual transmission fitted with a wet multi-plate clutch that sent the engine power to the rear end via a final chain drive, pushing the motorcycle to 193 kph (120 mph).
Regarding braking performance, the bike's 17-inch wheels were stopped by a 320 mm disc on the front with a dual-piston caliper and a 245 mm disc on the rear with a single-piston caliper.