Motorcycle Segment:
Large-displacement, air-cooled V-twin sport-touring motorcycle.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners requiring in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge for classic Ducati models.
Competitors Era:
Competed against other premium European and Japanese motorcycles of the mid-1970s, such as BMW R-series, Moto Guzzi V-twins, and larger Japanese twins.
Engine Configuration:
Iconic 90-degree V-twin engine, known for its unique sound and performance characteristics.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasized performance, handling, and distinctive Italian styling.
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for the V-twin engine.
Transmission Service:
Detailed instructions for gearbox maintenance, clutch service, and final drive inspection.
Carburetor System:
Comprehensive guide to dismantling, cleaning, tuning, and synchronizing Dell'Orto carburetors (e.g., PHF).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for ignition, lighting, starting, and charging systems.
Brake System:
Service procedures for front and rear drum and disc brakes, hydraulic system maintenance.
Suspension And Steering:
Fork service, shock absorber maintenance, steering head bearing adjustments.
Frame And Bodywork:
Information on frame inspection, mounting points, and body panel removal/installation.
Fuel System:
Tank removal, fuel line maintenance, fuel cock operation.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler removal and installation procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug service, valve clearance checks.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic charts and common problem-solving tips for various systems.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed steps for piston ring replacement, cylinder honing, crankshaft and connecting rod service.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Fault finding for ignition timing, starter motor issues, charging system failures.
Carburetor Tuning:
Adjusting idle speed, mixture, and jetting for optimal performance.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Tire replacement, wheel balancing, spoke tensioning (if applicable).
Torque Specifications:
Essential torque values for critical fasteners throughout the motorcycle.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive workshop level, suitable for experienced mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for engine, electrical, and mechanical faults.
Special Tools:
Likely lists or references special tools required for specific procedures.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, four-stroke, 90-degree V-twin Desmodromic
Displacement:
860 cc (860 GT), 900 cc (860 GTS - often used interchangeably or as an evolution)
Bore X Stroke:
80 mm x 85 mm (approx. for 860cc)
Compression Ratio:
Approx. 8.7:1
Valve Actuation:
Desmodromic
Horsepower Est:
Approx. 65-70 hp @ 6500-7000 rpm
Torque Est:
Approx. 70-75 Nm @ 5000 rpm
Carburetors:
2 x Dell'Orto PHF 36 (or similar dual carburetors)
Fuel Delivery:
Mechanical fuel pump (or gravity feed depending on tank setup)
Ignition Type:
Breaker-point ignition or early electronic ignition system
Cooling Method:
Air-cooled
Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 20W-50 motorcycle specific oil recommended.
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.0 - 3.5 liters (including filter)
Transmission Type:
5-speed constant mesh gearbox
Clutch Type:
Wet, multi-plate
Final Drive:
Shaft drive (on some models) or Chain drive (on others, especially GTS variants)
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios will be detailed in the manual.
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-4 gear oil recommended.
Safety Ratings:
Not applicable for this era of motorcycle, safety primarily relies on rider skill and mechanical condition.
Braking System:
Front: Single or Dual disc brake; Rear: Drum brake or Disc brake (depending on specific model variant).
Suspension Front:
Telescopic front forks with air assistance (on some models)
Suspension Rear:
Swingarm with dual shock absorbers
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, turn signals.
Chassis Design:
Steel tube frame providing rigidity and handling characteristics.
Infotainment System:
None (pre-modern electronics era)
Dashboard Layout:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, warning lights for oil pressure, neutral, and turn signals.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Interval:
Every 6,000-10,000 km (3,700-6,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Check at 6,000 km (3,700 miles), replace as needed.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 20W-50 motorcycle specific oil.
Gearbox Oil Spec:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-4 gear oil.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check specific caliper manufacturer recommendations if possible).
Desmodromic Valve Adjustment:
Requires specialized knowledge and tools; incorrect adjustment can lead to severe engine damage.
Carburetor Synchronization:
Critical for smooth running; Dell'Orto PHF can be finicky and require frequent tuning.
Electrical Reliability:
Wiring insulation can degrade over time; ignition and charging systems are common areas for attention.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Common due to aged seals and gaskets, particularly around the crankcases and valve covers.
Shaft Drive Maintenance:
If equipped with shaft drive, requires regular lubrication of the universal joint and final drive.
Ducati Legacy:
Ducati has a long and storied history in motorcycle racing and performance engineering, particularly with its V-twin engines.
Predecessors:
Evolved from earlier Ducati V-twins like the 750GT and 750 Sport.
Distinguishing Features:
Larger displacement engine, improved chassis and suspension compared to its predecessors, aimed at a more touring-oriented rider.
Production Years:
Approximately 1974-1977
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy
