Steering Damper - SD 031

Item Summary

• 68mm stroke
• Uses original mounts
• Replaces Ohlins Part # SD 120
• Unique, well proven design
• Pressurized fluid avoids problem of free play
• Adjustable in 16 well defined clicks
• Available in 6 different lengths/strokes
• Mounted outside of the fork leg or across the frame behind the triple clamp
• Universal parts for race bikes available

About the Product

Öhlins Steering Damper Kit – Ducati 748 / 916 / 996 / 998 – SD031

The Öhlins SD031 Steering Damper Kit is a high-performance steering stabilization upgrade designed for classic Ducati superbikes including the Ducati 748, 916, 996, and 998 platforms. Developed using Öhlins’ proven Road & Track steering damper technology, this kit improves front-end stability, enhances steering precision, and minimizes unwanted handlebar oscillations during aggressive riding.

Designed as a model-specific bolt-on system, the SD031 installs directly in the motorcycle’s OEM steering damper mounting location, providing clean factory-style fitment and straightforward installation. Its pressurized hydraulic piston design keeps the damping oil under pressure to eliminate internal free play and deliver smooth, consistent steering resistance across a wide range of riding conditions.

With 16 well-defined damping adjustment clicks, riders can easily fine-tune steering feel and resistance to suit riding style, suspension setup, or track conditions. The result is improved control, greater rider confidence, and more stable handling at high speeds.

Key Features

• Designed for Ducati 748, 916, 996, and 998 models

• Öhlins Road & Track steering damper technology

• Pressurized hydraulic piston system prevents internal free play

• 16-click adjustable damping for precise steering tuning

• Direct OEM mounting position for clean installation

• Precision-machined components for smooth damping action

• Fully rebuildable and serviceable design

• Supplied with model-specific mounting hardware

Performance Benefits

• Reduces headshake and handlebar oscillation

• Improves high-speed stability

• Enhances corner entry precision and rider confidence

• Provides consistent steering feedback under acceleration

• Ideal for trackdays, racing, and performance street riding

Steering dampers help stabilize the front end by controlling rapid handlebar movement, improving rider control during hard acceleration, braking, and high-speed riding conditions.

Technical Specifications

The damper features a 68 mm stroke length, providing the correct damping range for Ducati superbike chassis geometry.

Fitment

• Ducati 748 (1994–2002)

• Ducati 916 (1994–1998)

• Ducati 996 (1999–2001)

• Ducati 998 (2002–2003)

• Ducati 1098 (2007–2008)

• Ducati 1198 (2009–2011)

• Ducati 848 EVO / EVO Corse (2011–2013)

Why Choose Öhlins?

Öhlins steering dampers are widely used in professional motorsport and performance motorcycle builds thanks to their precision engineering, consistent damping performance, and race-proven reliability. Their pressurized hydraulic design ensures smooth damping while maintaining precise steering feedback at high speeds and under aggressive acceleration.

Upgrading to the Öhlins SD031 steering damper enhances the handling performance of Ducati’s legendary superbike platform, providing greater stability, sharper steering response, and increased rider confidence on both road and track.