Market Position:
The Ducati ST3 S ABS was positioned as a premium sport-touring motorcycle, offering a blend of comfortable ergonomics for long-distance riding with the performance characteristics associated with Ducati's sportbike heritage. It competed with other high-performance sport-touring machines from manufacturers like BMW, Yamaha, and Kawasaki.
Competitive Analysis:
Key competitors included the BMW R 1200 ST, Yamaha FJR1300, Kawasaki GTR1400, and Honda VFR800. The ST3 S differentiated itself with its signature L-twin engine, advanced Desmodromic valve actuation, and typically sharp Ducati styling and handling dynamics.
Key Features:
Powerful 992cc L-twin engine, Desmodromic valve control, integrated ABS, adjustable suspension, comfortable riding position for a Ducati, robust chassis, premium componentry.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Transmission, Clutch, Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Braking System (including ABS), Electrical System, Instruments, Lighting, Bodywork, Wheels, Tires, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 pages (estimated based on typical Ducati workshop manuals)
Manual Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF/Downloadable)
Engine:
Detailed breakdown of L-Twin Desmodromic engine, including cylinder head, valve timing, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch), fuel pump, injectors, throttle bodies, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel lines, evaporative emission control.
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition control unit (ECU), ignition coils, spark plugs, wiring.
Transmission:
6-speed sequential gearbox, gear selection mechanism, clutch operation (hydraulic), gearbox oil specifications and change intervals.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes with Brembo calipers, single rear disc brake. ABS system (Bosch 2-channel), brake fluid type, bleeding procedures, pad replacement, disc specifications.
Suspension:
Front: Fully adjustable 43mm Showa upside-down forks. Rear: Fully adjustable Showa monoshock with progressive linkage system. Fork oil type and level, shock absorber adjustments, bearing maintenance.
Electrical System:
Battery, starter motor, alternator, lighting (headlights, taillights, indicators), instrumentation, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, ECU diagnostics.
Bodywork:
Fairings, seat, fuel tank, fenders, removal and installation procedures, fasteners.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals (e.g., oil changes, filter replacements, valve clearance checks, timing belt inspection/replacement), lubrication points, general inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common issues, error code interpretation, fault finding for engine, electrical, and mechanical systems.
Repair:
Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems.
Diagnostics:
Information on diagnostic connectors, tools, and procedures for accessing and interpreting ECU data. ABS system diagnostics.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers routine maintenance, intermediate repairs, and full engine/transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Desmodromic L-Twin, 4-stroke, 2 valves per cylinder (Desmo actuated)
Bore X Stroke:
94 mm x 71.5 mm
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Compression Ratio:
10.5:1
Horsepower:
83 HP (61 kW) @ 8000 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by region)
Torque:
9.1 kgm (89 Nm) @ 6000 rpm (approximate, may vary slightly by region)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection, Bosch 5.9, 45mm Throttle Body
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating 95 or higher recommended)
Oil Type:
SAE 15W-50 Synthetic Motorcycle Oil (refer to manual for specific Ducati recommendations, e.g., Shell Advance Ultra)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.6 Liters (3.8 US qt) with filter change (refer to manual for precise capacity)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 2 years, whichever comes first.
Transmission Type:
6-speed sequential
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, wet multi-plate
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios are detailed in the manual, crucial for understanding performance characteristics.
Final Drive:
O-ring sealed chain, 525 pitch
Transmission Oil:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific grade and capacity)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycles are not typically assigned NHTSA or Euro NCAP ratings in the same way as cars. Focus is on inherent safety features.)
ABS:
Bosch 2-channel ABS system integrated into front and rear braking circuits.
Braking System:
Powerful dual 320mm front discs with 4-piston Brembo calipers, 245mm rear disc with 2-piston caliper.
Frame Type:
Trellis frame made of high-strength steel tubes for rigidity and rider feedback.
Lighting:
Multi-reflector halogen headlight, LED taillight, amber front and rear turn signals.
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation: Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, trip meter, clock, coolant temperature gauge, fuel level warning light. No advanced infotainment system typically found on modern motorcycles.
Driver Assistance:
Key driver assistance feature is the Bosch ABS system, significantly enhancing braking safety.
Connectivity Options:
No integrated connectivity features like Bluetooth or smartphone integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles)
Timing Belt Check:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months. Replacement every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 2 years.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific grade and manufacturer recommendations)
Coolant:
Glycol-based antifreeze with anti-corrosion additives, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Common Issues:
Timing belt wear/failure if not replaced on schedule, potential electrical connector corrosion, regulator/rectifier issues (less common on this generation), clutch slave cylinder leaks. The manual provides detailed troubleshooting for these and other potential problems.
Brand Heritage:
Ducati has a long and storied history in motorcycle racing and performance road bikes, known for its L-twin engines, Desmodromic valve technology, and passion for engineering excellence. This heritage influences the design and character of all its models, including the ST series.
Model Evolution:
The ST series evolved from earlier Ducati sport-touring models. The ST3 was a significant development, featuring the 992cc engine derived from the 996 superbike, offering a more relaxed yet powerful riding experience suitable for touring. The 'S' designation typically indicates enhanced specifications, such as the higher-spec Showa suspension and ABS on this model.
Production Years:
The ST3 model range was produced from approximately 2003 to 2007. The ST3 S ABS variant was available during this period, with 2006 being a specific model year.
