Segment:
Sport-touring motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and long-distance touring capability.
Competitors:
BMW R1150RT, Honda VFR800, Yamaha FJR1300, Kawasaki GTR1400.
Design Philosophy:
Combines Ducati's signature performance and handling with practical features for extended riding.
Engine Architecture:
Desmodromic L-twin engine known for its distinctive character and performance delivery.
Chassis Design:
Trellis frame offering rigidity and precise handling.
Primary Coverage:
Operation, maintenance, safety, and basic troubleshooting for the Ducati ST3 motorcycle.
Secondary Coverage:
Component identification, dashboard indicators, periodic maintenance checks, fluid specifications, and accessory installation guidelines.
Estimated Page Count:
100-150 pages (typical for this model and manual type)
Language:
English (primary focus, but often available in multiple languages)
Format:
Printed booklet (original factory format)
Engine:
Desmodromic valve actuation, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system, ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gearbox, final drive (chain maintenance).
Brakes:
Front and rear brake system operation, brake fluid type, bleeding procedures (basic).
Suspension:
Front fork operation and adjustment (pre-load, rebound), rear monoshock adjustment (pre-load, rebound).
Electrical:
Battery maintenance, lighting system, instrument panel, fuses, starter system, charging system basics.
Chassis And Bodywork:
Frame construction, seating, fairing components, luggage system integration.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter change, air filter inspection/replacement, spark plug check, chain lubrication and adjustment, brake fluid level check, tire pressure adjustment.
Basic Troubleshooting:
Common warning lights, starting issues, minor operational anomalies.
Safety Information:
Riding posture, helmet use, protective gear, pre-ride checks, safe operating practices.
Storage And Transport:
Winter storage recommendations, towing/transport guidelines.
Depth:
Owner-level maintenance and basic operation. Does not cover in-depth engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, or advanced electrical diagnostics. Focuses on what the owner can and should perform.
Digital Format Quality:
PDF (High-resolution scans of original pages, searchable text if OCR applied).
Print Quality:
High-quality reproduction of original factory printing.
Binding Type:
Staple-bound or perfect bound (matching original format).
Paper Type:
Durable, matte finish paper suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Type:
L-twin cylinder, four-stroke, Desmodromic valvetrain
Displacement:
937 cc (or 1078cc for ST3s)
Bore X Stroke:
94 x 67.5 mm (for 937cc), 98 x 71.5 mm (for 1078cc)
Desmodromic Actuation:
Yes, 4 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
Approx. 107 HP @ 8750 RPM (for 937cc)
Torque:
Approx. 94 Nm (70 lb-ft) @ 7000 RPM (for 937cc)
Fuel Injection:
Electronic fuel injection with throttle bodies
Oil Type Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific type (e.g., SAE 10W-40, API SG or higher). Capacity approx. 3.5-4.0 liters.
Length:
Approx. 2150 mm (varies slightly)
Width:
Approx. 800 mm (varies slightly)
Height:
Approx. 1280 mm (varies slightly)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 195 kg (varies slightly)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 215 kg (fully fueled)
Luggage System:
Optional Ducati hard saddlebags available, integrated mounting points.
Crash Test Ratings:
Motorcycles are not subject to standardized crash test ratings like cars. Safety relies on rider skill and protective gear.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/years.
Braking System:
Dual front discs (320mm) with radial calipers, single rear disc (245mm).
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight.
Instrumentation:
Digital/analog combination dashboard with essential warning lights.
Instrument Cluster:
Multi-function digital display with analog tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, clock, and various warning lights.
Audio System:
No integrated audio system from the factory; provision for aftermarket accessory installation.
ABS:
Optional ABS system, a significant safety technology for its time.
Accessories:
Pre-wired for accessory power outlets, heated grips, and luggage systems.
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Desmo Service:
Valve clearance check and adjustment (Desmo service) typically every 12,000 miles or 24 months. Crucial for Desmodromic engines.
Belt Replacement:
Timing belt replacement is critical and usually specified by mileage (e.g., 12,000 miles or 24 months) or age.
Chain Maintenance:
Lubricate chain every 500-750 miles and adjust slack as needed per manual specifications.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for exact viscosity and API rating. Common: SAE 10W-40, API SG or higher, JASO MA compatible for wet clutch.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or DOT 5.1 as specified for ABS models).
Clutch Fluid:
DOT 4 (if hydraulic clutch).
Desmo Service Importance:
Neglecting the Desmo service can lead to valve damage and significant engine repair costs.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Some models may experience fuel pump issues over time.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with many Italian bikes of this era, occasional electrical connectors or minor wiring issues can arise if not properly maintained.
Stator Output:
Potential for stator output degradation over high mileage.
Ducati Legacy:
Ducati is renowned for its performance-oriented motorcycles, V-twin engines, and iconic Desmodromic valve system.
St Series Development:
The ST series (ST2, ST3, ST4) represented Ducati's foray into the sport-touring segment, aiming to blend performance with comfort and practicality.
St3 Introduction:
Introduced in the early 2000s as an evolution of the ST2, featuring an updated engine (often the 937cc or later the 1078cc Testastretta from the Monster S4R) for improved performance and torque.
Production Years:
Circa 2003-2007 (exact years vary by market).
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy.