Motorcycle Segment:
Sport Touring
Target Audience:
Riders seeking performance, comfort, and versatility for long-distance touring and spirited riding.
Key Competitors:
BMW R1150RT, Honda VFR800 Interceptor, Kawasaki GTR1000, Yamaha FJR1300.
Performance Engine:
Powerful 90-degree V-Twin engine with Desmodromic valve actuation.
Suspension Componentry:
High-quality รhlins rear shock absorber for superior ride quality and adjustability.
Braking Performance:
Top-tier Brembo braking system for exceptional stopping power and feel.
Design Philosophy:
Integration of Italian design flair with sportbike performance and touring capability.
Engine System:
Detailed information on the Desmodromic L-Twin engine, including operation, lubrication, cooling, and ignition.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system operation, fuel pump, injectors, and fuel tank.
Transmission System:
Operation of the 6-speed gearbox, clutch system (wet multi-plate), and final drive.
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame construction, front fork (Showa USD, 43mm), rear monoshock (รhlins, fully adjustable), linkage system.
Braking System:
Dual 320mm front discs with Brembo calipers, single 245mm rear disc with Brembo caliper.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, lighting, ignition, instrumentation, and ECU.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Removal and installation of body panels, aerodynamic components.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel specifications, tire pressure recommendations, and fitment.
Controls And Ergonomics:
Handlebar controls, rider positioning, seat adjustment.
Basic Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, air filter cleaning/replacement.
Inspection And Checks:
Pre-ride checks, brake pad wear inspection, fluid level checks, tire inspection.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic information for common issues, error code interpretation (if applicable).
Adjustments:
Clutch lever, brake lever, suspension settings, chain tension.
Seasonal Storage:
Guidelines for preparing the motorcycle for extended storage.
Safety Precautions:
Important safety warnings and procedures for operation and maintenance.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive owner-level information for daily use, basic maintenance, and understanding of vehicle systems. Does not typically include full workshop-level repair procedures, which are found in Service Manuals.
โ๏ธ Engine Specifications
Engine Type:
Desmodromic, 4-stroke, 90ยฐ V-Twin, liquid-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
98 mm x 66 mm
Valve Train:
4 Desmodromic valves per cylinder
Compression Ratio:
11.3:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 117 hp @ 9,000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 72 lb-ft @ 7,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with two 50mm throttle bodies
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Exhaust Configuration:
2-into-1-into-2 catalytic converter system
Length:
Approximately 2170 mm (85.4 in)
Width:
Approximately 780 mm (30.7 in)
Height:
Approximately 1300 mm (51.2 in) at handlebars
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1470 mm (57.9 in)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 210 kg (463 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approximately 230 kg (507 lbs) (with fluids)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 liters (5.5 US gal)
Oil Capacity:
Refer to manual for specific engine oil capacity and final drive oil capacity.
Safety Certification:
Not applicable for motorcycles in the same way as cars; emphasis on rider safety features and design.
Braking System:
Dual 320mm front discs with Brembo 4-piston calipers, 245mm rear disc with Brembo 2-piston caliper.
Suspension Tuning:
Adjustable suspension allows for tuning to rider preference and load conditions, enhancing stability.
Frame Construction:
Sturdy Trellis frame for rigidity and handling precision.
Lighting System:
Dual headlights for improved visibility, rear taillight and indicators.
Ergonomics:
Designed for rider comfort and control during long rides.
Instrument Panel:
Analog tachometer and speedometer, LCD display for odometer, trip meters, clock, coolant temperature, and indicator lights.
ABS System:
Not equipped with ABS as standard.
Diagnostic Port:
On-board diagnostics (OBD) port for dealer-level or advanced diagnostic tools.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically every 7,500 km (4,500 miles) or 12 months.
Desmo Service Interval:
Critical; typically every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) for valve clearance adjustment (Desmodromic service).
Belt Replacement Interval:
Crucial; typically every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 2 years for timing belts.
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade and API classification (e.g., 15W-50, API SG or higher, suitable for wet clutches).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Clutch Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (shared with brake system)
Timing Belt Maintenance:
Critical to adhere to belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Age degradation is a factor even with low mileage.
Electrical Gremlins:
Some Ducati models of this era could experience minor electrical issues; manual helps in basic diagnostics.
Charging System:
Occasional regulator/rectifier or stator issues can occur, impacting battery charging.
Fuel Line Cracking:
Aging fuel lines can become brittle; inspection and replacement if necessary.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Refer to manual or dealer; common Ducati filters apply (e.g., HF152 or equivalent).
Spark Plug Specification:
Refer to manual; typically NGK Iridium plugs like CR9EIX or similar.
Ducati Legacy:
Ducati has a rich heritage in motorcycle racing (MotoGP, World Superbike) and a reputation for producing high-performance, characterful V-twin engines and iconic Italian designs.
St Series Development:
The ST series, including the ST4s, evolved from earlier Ducati sport-touring models, aiming to blend the performance of sportbikes with the comfort and practicality for longer distances. The ST4s was an enhancement of the ST4, featuring upgraded suspension and brakes.
Production Period:
The ST4s was produced from approximately 2001 to 2005.
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy
๐ Awards & Recognition
Motorcycle Press Reviews:
The ST4s generally received positive reviews for its performance, handling, and the premium feel of its รhlins suspension, though its price point and specific maintenance requirements were noted.