Motorcycle Segment:
Large displacement V-twin sport/touring motorcycle.
Era Significance:
Represents a significant step in Ducati's evolution towards its iconic V-twin heritage, bridging the gap from earlier singles and twins.
Key Competitors:
Moto Guzzi V7/V850, BMW R90/6, Honda CB750, Kawasaki Z1.
Desmodromic Valve Actuation:
The signature Ducati Desmodromic system, offering precise valve control at high RPM.
Engine Configuration:
Air-cooled, 90-degree L-twin (or 80-degree depending on exact measurement) with bevel gear drive for camshafts.
Design Philosophy:
Styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro, known for its distinctive styling cues of the era.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Clutch, Electrical System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Braking System, Suspension, Chassis, Frame, Bodywork, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Page Count:
Approximately 200-250 pages (typical for this era and complexity)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Language:
English (Primary, may contain supplementary languages depending on source)
Engine Overhaul:
Complete disassembly, inspection, assembly, and tuning of the L-Twin Desmodromic engine.
Transmission And Clutch:
Gearbox overhaul, clutch service and replacement procedures.
Electrical System Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting ignition and charging systems.
Fuel And Ignition Tuning:
Carburetor adjustment (Dell'Orto PHF/PHM), ignition timing procedures.
Braking And Suspension Servicing:
Front fork (Marzocchi) and rear shock absorber maintenance, brake caliper and master cylinder service.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment, valve clearance checks (Desmodromic timing).
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues.
Component Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engine components, carburetors, and brake systems.
Wiring Diagram Interpretation:
Clear, annotated wiring schematics for electrical system diagnosis.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and chassis rebuilds.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics, including electrical circuit tracing and component testing.
Assembly Precision:
Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences critical for Desmodromic engines.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 4-stroke, L-twin (90-degree cylinder angle)
Bore X Stroke:
83 mm x 80 mm
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, Desmodromic actuation
Compression Ratio:
9.3:1 (typical, may vary slightly)
Horsepower:
Approx. 60-65 hp @ 6500-7000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) @ 5000 rpm
Carburetion:
2 x Dell'Orto PHF 32 (or PHM 32) carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 91 RON)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 liters (3.7 US qt)
Oil Type Specification:
SAE 20W-50 API SG or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)
Safety Standards Era:
Designed prior to extensive modern motorcycle safety regulations and testing.
Braking System Front:
Dual 260 mm discs with hydraulic calipers (typically Grimeca or Brembo)
Braking System Rear:
240 mm disc with hydraulic caliper
Frame Construction:
Double cradle steel tube frame for rigidity.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, turn signals as per regulatory standards of the time.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually.
Desmodromic Valve Check:
Every 6,000-10,000 km (3,700-6,200 miles) - critical for engine health.
Carburetor Sync And Cleaning:
As needed, typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,200-9,300 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 API SG
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation)
Gearbox Oil Type:
SAE 80W-90 API GL-4
Desmodromic Valve Adjustment Complexity:
Requires specialized knowledge and tools for proper adjustment. Incorrect adjustment can lead to poor performance or engine damage.
Electrical Gremlins:
Wiring insulation degradation and connector corrosion are common with age, requiring thorough inspection.
Carburetor Performance:
Dell'Orto carburetors can be finicky and require meticulous tuning and rebuilding for optimal performance.
Fuel Tank Corrosion:
Some older steel tanks may be susceptible to internal corrosion if left unused or improperly stored.
Ducati Legacy:
Ducati's long-standing reputation for performance motorcycles built around the V-twin engine configuration.
Predecessors:
Evolved from earlier Ducati singles and the 750 series twins, laying groundwork for later 900 models.
Design Influence:
Styled by Giorgetto Giugiaro, influenced by automotive design trends of the mid-1970s.
Manufacturing Origin:
Bologna, Italy
Production Figures:
Limited production numbers, making it a desirable collector's item.
Automotive Design Awards:
While specific awards for the 860 are scarce, its designer Giorgetto Giugiaro is a recipient of numerous design accolades, and the 860's styling is often cited as a period classic.
Performance Reviews:
Critically acclaimed for its performance and handling characteristics within its class, though often noted for its demanding maintenance requirements.
Certification Standards:
Compliant with European and relevant market regulations for motorcycles of its production era.
