Segment:
Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Riders seeking a blend of performance, comfort for longer distances, and premium Italian engineering.
Competitors:
BMW R1150RT, Honda VFR800/VFR1200, Kawasaki GTR1400, Yamaha FJR1300
Design Philosophy:
Ducati's signature L-twin engine characteristics, sophisticated chassis, and performance-oriented riding experience adapted for touring comfort.
ABS System:
Integrated Anti-lock Braking System for enhanced safety during deceleration.
Engine Systems:
Engine operation, cooling system, lubrication, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system
Transmission Systems:
Clutch operation, gearbox function, final drive
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front and rear), steering, wheels, tires, brakes (including ABS functionality)
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, starter, ignition, ABS control unit, wiring diagrams
Bodywork And Ergonomics:
Fairing, seating, controls, storage, luggage options
Routine Maintenance:
Pre-ride inspection, oil and filter change, chain adjustment, brake fluid check, tire pressure adjustment, air filter cleaning/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Basic diagnostic checks for common issues, indicator light interpretations
User Operations:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, brake operation, ABS system awareness, dashboard indicators, instrument cluster functions
Adjustments:
Clutch lever, throttle cables, suspension settings (where applicable from owner's perspective)
Depth:
Comprehensive owner and user guidance, essential maintenance procedures, basic troubleshooting, safety information. Not a full workshop/service manual but provides vital user-level technical detail.
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Quality:
Factory quality, high resolution, clear text and diagrams
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Searchable:
Yes (typically for factory PDF manuals)
Media Format:
No CD-ROM required
Guarantee:
Full Money Back Guarantee
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Engine Type:
Desmodromic L-twin, 4-stroke
Displacement:
996 cc (996 cm³)
Bore X Stroke:
98 mm x 66 mm
Valvetrain:
4 valves per cylinder, Desmodromic actuation
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
Approx. 113 hp (83 kW) at 8,800 rpm (claimed)
Torque:
Approx. 97 Nm (71.5 lb-ft) at 7,000 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Weber Marelli)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (95 RON recommended)
Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific API and viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 10W-40, Motul 3000 Plus or similar)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.8 liters (including filter) - verify in manual
Length:
Approx. 2150 mm (verify in manual)
Width:
Approx. 760 mm (handlebar width, verify in manual)
Height:
Approx. 1220 mm (seat height, verify in manual)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 205 kg (verify in manual)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 225 kg (with fluids, verify in manual)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
21 liters (including 4-liter reserve)
Braking System:
Dual 320 mm discs with 4-piston radial calipers (front), Single 245 mm disc with 2-piston caliper (rear)
ABS Type:
Bosch ABS (2-channel)
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight
Instrumentation:
Analog tachometer, digital speedometer, warning lights
Instrument Cluster:
Analog tachometer, digital display for speedometer, odometer, trip meters, clock, ambient temperature, fuel level, and warning lights. Includes ABS system status indicator.
ABS System Operation:
The 2-channel ABS system actively prevents wheel lock-up under heavy braking, enhancing stability and control.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features such as Bluetooth or smartphone integration present on this model.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 km (4,500 miles) or annually, whichever comes first. Verify in manual.
Desmo Service:
Major Desmodromic valve clearance checks and adjustments are critical and typically required at intervals like 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 24,000 km (15,000 miles) depending on the specific valve train components and service manual recommendations. This manual may outline the importance but not the detailed procedure for a full desmo service.
Belt Replacement Interval:
Timing belts are crucial for Desmodromic engines and typically require replacement every 2 years or 10,000-24,000 km (6,000-15,000 miles). Consult the manual for exact intervals. Failure to replace can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors. See manual for specific type and mixture ratio.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid. Refer to manual for precise specification.
Clutch Fluid:
Mineral oil for hydraulic clutch systems (if applicable, typically shared with brake fluid reservoir or separate). Check manual.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older Ducatis can sometimes experience minor electrical issues, particularly with connectors and grounds. The manual's wiring diagrams are invaluable here.
Desmo Maintenance Criticality:
The unique Desmodromic valve system requires precise adjustment. Neglecting Desmo services is the most common cause of significant engine problems on these models.
Fuel Pump Reliability:
Some owners have reported occasional issues with the fuel pump relay or the pump itself on this generation of Ducatis, though not endemic.
Charging System:
Rotor and stator checks are recommended periodically as part of a thorough inspection.
Ducati Legacy:
Ducati is renowned for its V-twin engines, Desmodromic valve actuation, racing heritage (MotoGP, WorldSBK), and distinctive Italian design and performance.
St Series:
The ST series represented Ducati's foray into the sport-touring segment, blending their performance DNA with increased comfort and practicality for longer rides. The ST4s was an evolution featuring the more powerful 996cc engine.
Production Period:
The ST4s was produced from approximately 2001 to 2005. This manual specifically covers the 2003 model year.
