Ducati Cadet 90
Road Impression:
DUCATI CADET 90
FORCED AIR is one of the more modern technologies being applied to the heating of private residences these days, and it is also one of the latest methods of cooling motorcycle engines. We are not saying it is anything new, even the popularly-used chain saw avails itself of this method of cooling, but it is rarely found on a motorcycle or scooter.
Advantages of the forced air cooling system are simply that the machine need not be moving through the air to cool the engine. This is especially advantageous off-the-road where lower gears are used frequently, and the commensurate higher engine revolutions produce more engine heat. In the fan-cooled engine the higher revolutions actually produce more cooling air, and at a time when it is needed most, incidentally. The advantages of forced air cooling are of course not limited to the trail machine, but this best describes its most important benefits.
Ducati's little 90 Cadet combines this asset, with a number of other attractive reasons for owning one, into a highly desirable machine. The handsome engine is a single-cylinder, two-stroke, of an actual 86.744 cubic centimeters. Horsepower is kept a dark secret, but it is by all standards enough to keep the Cadet in step with its competition. We found fault only with the motor scooter type gear change mechanism on the left handlebar, a minor fault and one that can be corrected by ordering the model with the foot-change system. It is the type of objection we have often found was ours alone so we'll say no more.
Though only three speeds are in the gearbox they seem well enough spaced, and as Ducati traits would dictate, gear changing is pure delight. Finish, paint, polish and the other external methods of judging a machine are up to Ducati's usual standards. Most aluminum parts are polished to a high lustre, painted parts show the careful attention to application, typical of both Ducati and most other machines emanating from industrial Italy.
Top speed is claimed to be approximately 56 miles per hour, and gas consumption around 102 miles per gallon. Both are respectable and highly normal figures for such a machine. Among the many things we liked about the Cadet 90 was the almost totally silent operation, thanks in part to the cast alloy shrouding that surrounds most of the engine, dampening most cylinder noise, and thanks to a nice, big muffler. Large alloy brakes, oil dampened suspension at both ends, dual footpegs, full lighting equipment, chrome luggage rack, chain guard, and tire pump, put the finishing touches to the Ducati Cadet 90. Its price is another thing we think all will like. •
