Historical Context:
The Ducati 860 GTS was a significant model for Ducati, representing a move towards more modern styling and engineering while retaining the characteristic Borgo Panigale V-twin engine. It aimed to compete in the growing 'superbike' segment of the era.
Competitors:
Competed against models from manufacturers like BMW (R90S), Moto Guzzi, and other European and Japanese marques offering large-displacement motorcycles.
Distinctive Attributes:
Iconic bevel-drive desmodromic L-twin engine, distinctive styling (often attributed to Giorgetto Giugiaro), and robust chassis.
Engine:
Full engine disassembly, inspection, reassembly, valve adjustment, timing, carburetion, ignition system
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, inspection, repair, clutch service, final drive maintenance
Frame And Suspension:
Chassis inspection, front fork service (damping, seals), rear shock absorber and swingarm service
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system maintenance, caliper service, master cylinder repair, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing (generator, starter, lighting, ignition coil), battery maintenance
Fuel System:
Carburetor tuning and overhaul (Dell'Orto PHM, likely), fuel tank maintenance, petcock service
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing, tank, seat, and fender removal/installation procedures
Maintenance:
Routine checks, lubrication schedules, filter replacement, spark plug service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides for common performance issues, starting problems, and electrical faults
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component replacement and overhaul
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque values, clearances, and critical dimensions for engine and chassis components
Engine Rebuild:
Complete guide to engine disassembly, inspection of critical components (pistons, cylinders, crankshaft, con-rods), bearing replacement, and reassembly with correct torque values and clearances.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed steps for removing the gearbox, inspecting gears, shift forks, and bearings, along with reassembly and lubrication.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and gearbox rebuilds
Diagnostic Procedures:
Includes systematic troubleshooting charts and explanations for diagnosing common faults across all major systems.
Special Tool Requirements:
Likely lists specific Ducati special tools required for certain procedures (e.g., valve adjustment, engine disassembly).
Format Details:
Original factory manual, typically wire-bound or stapled with heavy cardstock cover
Quality:
High-quality technical illustrations, clear line drawings, and detailed exploded views
Binding:
Wire-bound or stapled, designed for workshop use
Paper:
Durable, matte paper stock suitable for greasy workshop environments
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, 90-degree V-twin (L-twin), desmodromic valve actuation
Displacement:
797 cc (for earlier 860 models, GTS variants might vary slightly, check specific VIN)
Bore X Stroke:
82 mm x 77 mm (typical for this engine family)
Horsepower:
Approx. 60-65 HP @ 6500 RPM (varies with specific tuning and model year)
Torque:
Approx. 70 Nm @ 5000 RPM (approximate)
Carburetors:
Dual Dell'Orto PHM 36 (common fitment)
Ignition Type:
Points and Condenser, or early electronic ignition systems
Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 motorcycle-specific oil (manual will specify)
Desmodromic System:
Camshafts operate both intake and exhaust valves, with mechanical actuation for opening and closing, eliminating need for valve springs on exhaust
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1450 mm (57.1 inches) - typical for the era
Length:
Approx. 2100 mm (82.7 inches) - typical
Dry Weight:
Approx. 200-215 kg (440-475 lbs) - typical
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 20 liters (5.3 US gallons)
Front Wheel Size:
19 inch
Front Tire Size:
3.50 - 19 (common)
Rear Tire Size:
4.00 - 18 or 4.25 - 18 (common)
Safety Standards:
Motorcycles of this era did not have standardized crash ratings like modern cars. Safety was primarily inherent in design and component quality.
Braking System:
Dual front discs with hydraulic actuation, single rear disc (GTS variant) or drum brake (earlier models) depending on specification.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame (typically double cradle), providing structural rigidity.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually, as per manual.
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Crucial for desmodromic engines. Intervals would be detailed, often around 6,000-10,000 km (3,700-6,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid (manual will specify exact type and bleeding procedure)
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil (manual will specify capacity and grade)
Desmodromic Cam Chain Tensioner:
Early models may have had less robust cam chain tensioners; manual would cover inspection and replacement.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion and loose connections can affect ignition and lighting on older bikes; manual provides wiring diagrams for diagnosis.
Carburetor Maintenance:
Dell'Orto carburetors require periodic cleaning and synchronization for optimal performance; manual covers disassembly and tuning.
Desmodromic Valve Clearances:
Critical to maintain for engine longevity and performance; manual details the precise adjustment procedure.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.5-3.0 liters with filter change (manual to confirm exact capacity)
Ducati Legacy:
Ducati has a long history of producing performance-oriented motorcycles, known for their V-twin engines, desmodromic valve actuation, and racing pedigree.
860 Series:
The 860 series was an evolution of earlier Ducati models, aiming to update the brand's offerings with more modern styling and engineering, including the adoption of shaft drive on some variants and more integrated bodywork.
Manufacturing Location:
Borgo Panigale, Bologna, Italy
Designer Influence:
Giorgetto Giugiaro's design input for the fuel tank and overall styling gave the 860 series a distinctive look.
