Vehicle Segment:
High-performance Superbike
Manufacturer Philosophy:
Ducati's heritage of desmodromic valve actuation and L-twin engine architecture
Key Competitors:
Honda CBR954RR, Yamaha YZF-R1, Suzuki GSX-R1000, Aprilia RSV Mille
Desmodromic Valve Actuation:
Standard on all Ducati engines, ensuring precise valve closure.
L Twin Engine Design:
Characterized by its unique cylinder arrangement and torque delivery.
Performance Focus:
Designed for track-day performance and spirited road riding.
Primary Coverage Areas:
General Information, Maintenance Schedule, Engine Disassembly, Engine Overhaul, Engine Reassembly, Engine Managing and Electronic Systems
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (Exact page count not specified, but implies full service manual)
Manual Type:
Service Repair Manual
Languages:
Italian & English
Engine Management:
ECU operation, sensor readings, fuel injection, ignition timing
Engine Mechanical:
Cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting, ignition, sensors, ECU interface
Chassis Components:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), brakes, wheels, tires
Disassembly Reassembly:
Complete engine teardown and rebuild procedures
Maintenance Tasks:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, valve clearance checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults and issues
Technical Adjustments:
Carburetor/throttle body synchronization, idle speed adjustment, ECU parameter checks
Depth Of Information:
In-depth, covering detailed mechanical and electrical repair, overhaul, and troubleshooting for expert technicians and advanced enthusiasts.
Engine Configuration:
L-twin (Testastretta), four-stroke
Desmodromic Valve Control:
Yes, 4 valves per cylinder
Bore X Stroke 999:
98 mm x 66 mm
Bore X Stroke 999R:
104 mm x 58.3 mm
Bore X Stroke 999S:
98 mm x 66 mm
Displacement 999R:
999 cc (with longer stroke and smaller bore)
Displacement 999S:
998 cc
Horsepower 999:
124 hp @ 9500 rpm
Horsepower 999R:
150 hp @ 9750 rpm
Horsepower 999S:
136 hp @ 9500 rpm
Torque 999:
101.5 Nm (74.9 lb-ft) @ 7500 rpm
Torque 999R:
119 Nm (87.8 lb-ft) @ 8000 rpm
Torque 999S:
105 Nm (77.4 lb-ft) @ 7000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection (Ducati's proprietary system)
Throttle Bodies:
Dual 54mm throttle bodies (May vary slightly between models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (refer to manual for specific type/mix)
Oil Type:
Fully synthetic motorcycle oil, API SG/SH/SJ, JASO MA (e.g., Motul 3000 10W-40 or equivalent)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5-4.0 liters (depending on filter change, refer to manual)
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings not standardized like automobiles)
Braking System Front:
Dual 320mm semi-floating discs, radial-mount 4-piston calipers (Brembo)
Braking System Rear:
Single 240mm disc, 2-piston caliper (Brembo)
ABS Availability:
Optional or standard on certain late models/trims, but not a universal feature for the 2003-2006 range.
Frame Construction:
Steel Trellis Frame
Suspension Front:
Upside-down telescopic forks (Ohlins on R/S models, Showa on standard)
Suspension Rear:
Monoshock (Ohlins on R/S models, Sachs on standard)
Instrument Cluster:
Digital and analog display with tachometer, speedometer, gear indicator, trip meters, and warning lights.
Traction Control:
Not standard on most 999 models within this range; found on later generations or aftermarket.
Riding Modes:
N/A for this generation.
Diagnostic Port:
On-board diagnostics port for ECU access and fault code reading.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 km (4,600 miles) or 12 months
Desmo Service Interval:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 24 months (for valve clearance adjustment and desmodromic system inspection/adjustment)
Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or 24 months (whichever comes first)
Fork Oil Type:
High-quality suspension fluid with specified viscosity (e.g., SAE 5W, 7.5W, or 10W depending on rider preference and manual recommendation)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (refer to manual for specific compatibility)
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (same as brake fluid)
Cam Belt Wear:
Regular inspection and replacement are critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Electrical Gremlins:
Some owners have reported intermittent issues with wiring or connectors; thorough inspection is recommended.
Clutch Actuation:
Hydraulic clutch slave cylinder can sometimes require maintenance or replacement.
Overheating Potential:
In extreme conditions, effective cooling system maintenance is essential.
Manufacturer Origin:
Italy
Desmodromic Legacy:
Ducati's pioneering and trademarked desmodromic valve system dating back to the 1950s.
Design Philosophy Shift:
Introduced a significant redesign from the 996, including a new trellis frame, single-sided swingarm, and more integrated fairings, along with the more powerful Testastretta engine.
Production Period:
2003-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy
Motogp Heritage:
Derived from Ducati's extensive MotoGP racing program, influencing its performance and design.
Motorcycle Press Acclaim:
Generally well-received by motorcycle journalists for its handling, engine character, and track prowess, though often cited for its demanding nature and maintenance requirements.