Segment:
Sportbike, naked bike variants
Performance Focus:
Performance-oriented motorcycle aimed at experienced riders.
Key Competitors:
Ducati 748, Ducati 916/996/998 series, Honda CBR600RR, Yamaha YZF-R6, Suzuki GSX-R600.
Engine Configuration:
L-Twin (Desmodromic)
Chassis Design:
Trellis frame
Suspension:
High-performance, fully adjustable front and rear suspension.
Braking:
Brembo braking systems.
Engine Components:
Pistons, valves, crankshaft, camshafts, timing components, lubrication system, cooling system components.
Fuel System:
Fuel injectors, fuel pump, fuel pressure regulator, fuel lines, throttle bodies.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust headers, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, exhaust manifold gaskets.
Transmission Components:
Clutch assembly, gears, shift forks, bearings, seals, transmission casing.
Chassis Frame:
Main frame, subframe, swingarm, steering head components.
Suspension Front:
Front fork internal components (seals, springs, dampers), triple clamps, steering stem.
Suspension Rear:
Rear shock absorber components, linkage arms, bearings, swingarm pivot components.
Braking System Front:
Brake calipers, brake discs, master cylinder, brake lines, brake pads.
Braking System Rear:
Rear brake caliper, rear brake disc, rear master cylinder, rear brake lines, rear brake pads.
Wheel Components:
Wheels (rims), wheel bearings, wheel spacers, axle components.
Electrical System Components:
Wiring harnesses, connectors, fuses, relays, battery mounting, lighting components (headlight, taillight, indicators).
Bodywork Fairings:
Front fairing, side fairings, tail section, belly pan, mounting brackets, fasteners.
Controls Levers:
Clutch lever, brake lever, throttle assembly, handlebar grips, control cables.
Seating Accessories:
Seat base, seat cover, passenger grab handles (if applicable).
Part Identification:
Visual identification of all replaceable components with associated part numbers.
Assembly Disassembly Guides:
Detailed exploded views showing the order of assembly and disassembly for various component groups.
Fastener Specifications:
Identification of specific bolts, nuts, washers, and their relevant torque specifications where applicable in diagrams.
Depth:
Comprehensive part identification for replacement and ordering. Does not typically include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic information.
Type:
Four-stroke, Desmodromic L-twin, 4 valves per cylinder
Bore X Stroke:
90 mm x 58 mm
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower Peak:
Approx. 96 HP (71 kW) @ 9000 rpm (for 749 '04)
Torque Peak:
Approx. 75 Nm (55 lb-ft) @ 7500 rpm (for 749 '04)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection, Marelli (or similar) system
Throttle Body Size:
50 mm
Ignition Type:
Digital electronic ignition with spark advance
Oil Capacity With Filter Change:
Approx. 3.7 Liters (03720020A is a common oil filter part number)
Oil Type:
API SG, JASO MA Certified Motorcycle Oil, Viscosity SAE 15W-50 (Ducati recommendation, always verify with specific manual/oil supplier)
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter (Euro 2 compliant for original models)
Crash Test Results:
Motorcycles are not subject to standardized crash testing in the same way as cars. Safety is rider-dependent and based on rider aids and chassis stability.
Braking System:
Dual disc front brakes with radial-mount Brembo calipers, single disc rear brake. Often equipped with braided steel brake lines for improved feel and performance.
Suspension Adjustability:
Fully adjustable front forks (preload, compression, rebound) and rear shock absorber for optimized handling and stability.
Frame Design:
Trellis frame provides excellent rigidity and rider feedback.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight, amber incandescent turn signals.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 6,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (standard recommendation, check specific manual for exact interval).
Desmodromic Valve Adjustment:
Every 12,000 miles or 24 months (critical maintenance item for Ducati Desmo engines).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 12,000 miles or 24 months (crucial to prevent catastrophic engine damage).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 12,000 miles (check specific plug type and gap).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (e.g., Motul Motocool Expert, or equivalent meeting Ducati specifications).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check specific reservoir cap for indication).
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (shared with brake system).
Electrical Gremlins:
Common in older Ducatis, can include sensor issues, stator failures, or wiring harness degradation. A parts catalog helps identify specific connectors and wires.
Regulator Rectifier Failure:
Can lead to battery charging issues. Identifying the specific part number for replacement is key.
Desmodromic Valve Adjustment Intervals:
Missing or overdue desmo adjustments are a primary cause of engine damage. This manual aids in identifying components for this service.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Occasional issues with fuel pump strainers or the pump itself, especially with ethanol-blend fuels.
Brand Origin:
Italian motorcycle manufacturer founded in Bologna in 1926, renowned for performance and racing heritage.
Predecessors:
The 749 was developed alongside the larger 999 and served as a more accessible, track-focused sportbike alternative to larger displacement models, evolving from the successful 748 and the legacy of the 916 series.
Variants:
The 749 line included the standard 749, the 749 Dark (basic version), and the higher-specification 749S and 749R models, each with varying levels of suspension and performance components.
Production Years:
2003-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy