Even though the Ducati 900 SS is some three decades old, we still see a lot of customs based around the 90° V-twin Desmo engine. A little online digging reveals the reason: over 25,000 examples of this model rolled out of the factory in Borgo Panigale.
That?s an impressive number, and around half of Ducati?s entire factory output last year.

Fortunately, the quality is high with 900 SS builds, and this new machine from Johnny Nguyen follows the trend. Johnny runs Upcycle Motor Garage in Anaheim, California, and has wowed us several times already over the past year with his knack for crisp styling (and penchant for white wheels).
This time he?s put a 1992 900 SS up on his bench, after finding one in decent running condition on Craigslist. And the result is stunning.
The Ducati was not a commission: Johnny built the bike to suit his own tastes, and it matches the style of his BMX, which he rides daily.
The stock 900 SS is quite a heavyset looking machine, with a full fiberglass fairing and a chunky seat and tail unit. So Johnny has added visual lightness by removing the stock ?glass and building a new rear frame with just enough space for a solo seat, upholstered in black suede.

The compact bikini fairing is a Ducati competition unit from Airtech, which Johnny very neatly modified to accept a headlight.
Right behind is a Motogadget Motocope Mini speedo, plus Woodcraft clipon bars furnished with Motion switchgear and Vans x Cult ?waffle sole? grips, which are actually ...