Market Position:
The Ducati 749 was positioned as a more accessible, yet still high-performance, sportbike, often serving as an entry point into Ducati's V-twin superbike lineage, complementing the more track-focused 999.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with other middleweight supersports of its era, such as the Yamaha R6, Suzuki GSX-R600, and Honda CBR600RR, while offering the distinctive Italian flair and V-twin character of Ducati.
Key Features:
L-twin (Desmodromic) engine, trellis frame, distinctive 'Testastretta' cylinder head geometry, radial-mount brake calipers, underseat exhaust, and sharp, aggressive styling.
Coverage Areas:
Parts List/Catalog for 2003 Ducati 749
Page Count:
Detailed page count not specified, typical for parts lists.
Manual Type:
Parts Catalog/List
Language:
Likely English, with potential for diagrams in multiple languages.
Format:
Likely digital (PDF) or a printed booklet.
Systems Covered:
All major component groups including Engine, Frame, Suspension (Front and Rear), Brakes (Front and Rear), Fuel System, Electrical System, Exhaust System, Wheels, Bodywork, Controls, and Accessories.
Procedures Included:
Identification of genuine Ducati replacement parts, part numbers, assembly diagrams, and component relationships. Does not typically include repair or maintenance procedures.
Technical Depth:
Detailed breakdown of all components with OEM part numbers. Essential for ordering correct replacement parts and understanding assembly order.
File Format:
PDF (commonly), potentially print.
Print Quality:
High resolution for diagrams and part numbers, suitable for printing.
Binding Type:
N/A (if digital), Stapled or perfect bound (if printed).
Paper Type:
N/A (if digital), High-quality paper (if printed).
Engine Type:
Desmodromic L-twin (90° V-twin), liquid-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
94 mm x 54.5 mm
Valvetrain:
4 valves per cylinder, Desmodromic actuation
Horsepower:
Approximately 108 HP (80 kW) @ 9,750 RPM
Torque:
Approximately 70 Nm (52 lb-ft) @ 8,000 RPM
Fuel Injection:
Weber-IAW electronic fuel injection with phased injection, throttle body diameter 54 mm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 95-98 RON
Length:
Approximately 2070 mm (81.5 in)
Width:
Approximately 730 mm (28.7 in) at handlebars
Height:
Approximately 1100 mm (43.3 in) at seat
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1410 mm (55.5 in)
Dry Weight:
Approximately 185 kg (408 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approximately 200 kg (441 lbs) (curb weight)
Seat Height:
Approximately 810 mm (31.9 in)
Ground Clearance:
Approximately 130 mm (5.1 in)
Safety Ratings:
Motorcycle safety ratings are typically not standardized like automobiles. Focus is on rider aids and braking performance.
Brakes Front:
Dual 320 mm semi-floating discs, Brembo radial-mount 4-piston calipers
Brakes Rear:
Single 240 mm disc, Brembo 2-piston caliper
Suspension Front:
Showa 43 mm upside-down forks, fully adjustable
Suspension Rear:
Showa single shock absorber with adjustable preload, rebound, and compression damping
Wheels Tires Front:
3.50 x 17 inch wheel, 120/70 ZR17 tire
Wheels Tires Rear:
5.50 x 17 inch wheel, 180/55 ZR17 tire
Lighting:
Dual Halogen headlights, LED tail light
Infotainment System:
Basic dashboard instrumentation, typically including analog tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, trip meters, and warning lights. No advanced infotainment features.
Driver Assistance:
No electronic rider aids such as ABS or traction control were standard or widely available for this model year.
Connectivity:
No integrated connectivity features. Aftermarket options may exist.
Major Service Interval:
Typically every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months, including Desmo valve check/adjustment, spark plug replacement, and fluid changes. Specifics are crucial and found in the service manual.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 6,000 km (3,750 miles) or 6 months.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50, API SG/SH/SJ, JASO MA, fully synthetic motorcycle oil. Capacity approx. 3.8 L (4.0 US qt) with filter.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 2.5 L (2.6 US qt).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 high-performance brake fluid.
Clutch Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic fluid.
Desmodromic Valves:
Requires specialized knowledge for adjustment (Desmo service), potential for valve seat wear if not maintained.
Electrical Connectors:
Some Ducati models from this era can have issues with corroded electrical connectors; regular inspection and protection are recommended.
Fuel Pump:
Occasional fuel pump failures have been reported; routine checks are beneficial.
Clutch Slave Cylinder:
Leaking clutch slave cylinders can be an issue; regular fluid level checks and potential seal replacement are advised.
Air Filter Part Number Example:
OEM Part: 444.1.023.1A (Example, requires verification for specific 749 model variant)
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
OEM Part: 444.1.004.1A (Example, requires verification for specific 749 model variant)
Spark Plug Type:
NGK CR9EKB or equivalent, two spark plugs per cylinder.
Brand Heritage:
Ducati, an iconic Italian motorcycle manufacturer, is renowned for its passion, performance-oriented motorcycles, Desmodromic valve actuation, and involvement in Superbike racing.
Model Evolution:
The 749 was part of the Ducati 749/999 family, designed by Pierre Terblanche, which replaced the highly successful 748/916/996/998 series. The 749 was specifically developed to meet the homologation requirements for racing classes with a 750cc limit.
Production Years:
2003-2007
Manufacturing Location:
Borgo Panigale, Bologna, Italy
Recognitions:
While the 749 itself may not have specific 'awards', it was part of the Ducati lineage that consistently received acclaim for design, performance, and engineering in motorcycle publications and industry awards.
Design Appreciation:
Praised for its distinctive styling and aggressive aesthetics, a hallmark of Ducati design, particularly the 'banana' swingarm and overall chassis integration.
