Market Segment:
Performance Sportbike segment.
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to understand and maintain their Ducati 749 DARK, as well as independent mechanics.
Key Competitors:
Honda CBR600RR, Yamaha R6, Suzuki GSX-R600, Kawasaki ZX-6R, Triumph Daytona 600/650.
Distinctive Attributes:
Unique L-twin engine configuration, signature Ducati trellis frame, aggressive styling, and focus on rider involvement.
Coverage Scope:
Operation and Maintenance
Page Count:
Estimated 200-300 pages (typical for this type of manual, exact number not provided).
Manual Type:
Operation and Maintenance Manual
Language:
English (standard for official Ducati manuals sold in English-speaking markets).
Format:
Printed Book (implied by typical product offerings for motorcycle manuals).
Engine System:
Detailed coverage of the Testastretta V-twin engine, including lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, and emission control systems.
Transmission System:
Information on the six-speed gearbox, clutch operation, and final drive (chain and sprockets).
Chassis System:
Coverage of the steel trestle frame, suspension components (front forks, rear shock absorber), steering system, and braking system (discs, calipers, master cylinders, lines).
Electrical System:
Includes wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, lighting systems, starting and charging systems, instrument panel functions, and ECU operation.
Fuel System:
Details on fuel injection system, fuel pump, injectors, throttle bodies, and fuel tank.
Cooling System:
Information on the liquid-cooling system, radiator, coolant type, and bleeding procedures.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Instructions for removal and reinstallation of body panels, seat, and other cosmetic components.
Routine Maintenance:
Covers regular checks and servicing such as oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, tire pressure checks, and brake fluid checks.
Troubleshooting:
Guidance on diagnosing common operational problems and identifying potential causes.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly for various systems.
Diagnostic Checks:
Basic diagnostic checks for electrical components, engine performance, and braking system functionality.
Fluid Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and clutch fluid.
Adjustment Procedures:
Instructions for adjusting clutch, throttle cables, and suspension settings.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive for owners and independent technicians, covering routine maintenance to in-depth component repairs. Excludes specialized Ducati diagnostic tools/software typically found in dealer-level service manuals.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 90° V-twin (L-twin), Desmodromic 4 valves per cylinder
Engine Code Identifier:
Testastretta
Bore X Stroke:
94 mm x 53.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.7:1
Valve Actuation:
Desmodromic
Max Power Hp:
95 hp (70 kW) @ 9,000 rpm (approximate, depending on market and version)
Max Torque Nm:
76 Nm (56 lb-ft) @ 7,000 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Weber Marelli or similar ECU controlled)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Oil Type:
Synthetic motorcycle oil, SAE 15W-50 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for exact Ducati specification, e.g., Ducati approved brands)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture (e.g., Shellbrook or similar)
Transmission Type:
6-speed sequential, constant mesh
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate, hydraulically operated
Final Drive:
Chain, O-ring sealed, 525 pitch
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios would be detailed in the manual, crucial for performance tuning and maintenance.
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 4 brake fluid (typically shared with brake system)
Length:
Approx. 2,070 mm (81.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 750 mm (29.5 in) (at handlebars)
Height:
Approx. 1,130 mm (44.5 in) (at seat)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,420 mm (55.9 in)
Seat Height:
Approx. 820 mm (32.3 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 188 kg (414 lbs) (specific for DARK variant, others may differ)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
15.5 liters (4.1 US gal), including a 3-liter reserve
Safety Certifications:
CE compliant for European markets, DOT/FMVSS standards for North American markets (as applicable to motorcycle safety regulations).
Braking System:
Dual 320 mm semi-floating discs with 4-piston radial calipers (front), Single 245 mm disc with 2-piston caliper (rear).
Suspension System:
Showa 43mm upside-down telescopic forks (front), Sachs or Showa monoshock (rear) with adjustable preload and rebound damping.
Tire Specifications Front:
120/70 ZR17
Tire Specifications Rear:
180/55 ZR17
Lighting:
Halogen headlamp, LED taillight, turn signals.
Instrumentation:
Digital LCD display for speed, RPM, fuel level, temperature, odometer, trip meters, clock. Analog tachometer.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Desmo Service Interval:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) (major valve clearance and desmodromic system check).
Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 24 months, whichever comes first (critical component).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or based on inspection.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.8 liters (4.0 US qt) with filter change.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 1.7 liters (1.8 US qt).
Common Wear Items:
Cam belts (critical for timely replacement), clutch plates, chain and sprockets, front fork seals, brake pads.
Potential Electrical Gremlins:
Corrosion in connectors, regulator/rectifier issues (though less common than on air-cooled models).
Engine Characteristics:
Requires regular 'Desmo' service for optimal performance and longevity. Sensitive to timely belt replacement.
Manufacturer Origin:
Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A., Bologna, Italy.
Core Philosophy:
Emphasis on performance, Italian design, desmodromic valve actuation, and V-twin engine architecture.
Predecessor Model:
Ducati 748.
Successor Model:
Ducati 848.
Development Goal:
To offer a more accessible and user-friendly sportbike compared to the flagship 916/996/998 series, while retaining Ducati's characteristic performance and styling.
Production Years:
2002-2006 (for the 749 range, including the DARK variant).
Manufacturing Location:
Borgo Panigale, Bologna, Italy.
Motorcycle Reviews:
Praised for its handling, engine character, and sharp styling. Often noted for its unique riding experience compared to Japanese inline-fours. Positive reviews for the 'DARK' variant's aesthetic appeal.
Performance Class:
Mid-size supersport category, though its V-twin torque delivery provides a different feel than its Japanese competitors.
Emission Standards:
Compliant with applicable emissions standards for its production era (e.g., Euro 2 in Europe).
