Market Segment:
Sportbike, Performance Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Ducati enthusiasts, vintage motorcycle restorers, performance tuning shops.
Key Competitors:
Other Italian sportbikes of the era, Japanese multi-cylinder sportbikes.
Design Philosophy:
Innovative slotted frame design, characteristic Ducati V-twin engine, performance-oriented chassis.
Manual Value Proposition:
Indispensable resource for maintaining and restoring a classic Ducati, offering deep technical insight not readily available elsewhere.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Transmission, Clutch, Frame, Suspension (Front & Rear), Braking System (Front & Rear), Electrical System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Chassis, Bodywork, Troubleshooting, Specifications, Maintenance Procedures
Page Count:
Approximately 300
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Engine Overhaul:
Complete engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly procedures for the 500cc L-twin engine.
Fuel System Repair:
Carburetor tuning, cleaning, and rebuilding (likely Dell'Orto PHF or similar), fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel tank servicing.
Ignition System Diagnostics:
Spark plug specifications, timing adjustments, coil testing, and CDI unit troubleshooting.
Transmission Maintenance:
Gearbox oil change procedures, clutch adjustment, clutch plate replacement, and gearbox internal inspection.
Suspension Servicing:
Front fork (Marzocchi or similar) seal replacement, oil levels, damping adjustments, and rear shock absorber maintenance.
Braking System Overhaul:
Brake pad replacement, caliper servicing, master cylinder overhaul, fluid bleeding procedures, and disc inspection.
Electrical System Schematics:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing (battery, starter, alternator, lighting, instrumentation), and troubleshooting common electrical faults.
Preventative Maintenance:
Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, and periodic inspections.
Troubleshooting Guide:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common performance issues, starting problems, and operational anomalies.
Component Rebuilds:
Step-by-step instructions for rebuilding key components like carburetors, brake calipers, and suspension units.
Torque Specifications:
Essential torque values for all critical fasteners during assembly and disassembly.
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for certain procedures.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Suitable for both experienced mechanics and dedicated DIY enthusiasts aiming for full restoration or advanced repair.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, air-cooled, 90-degree V-twin (L-twin)
Bore X Stroke:
78 mm x 51.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.7:1 (approx.)
Valve Train:
2 valves per cylinder, desmodromic
Horsepower:
48 hp @ 8,000 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
4.2 kgm @ 6,000 rpm (approx.)
Carburetors:
2 x Dell'Orto PHF 30 A or similar
Fuel Capacity:
18 Liters (approx.)
Oil Type:
SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 API SG/SH (check manual for exact specification)
Oil Capacity:
2.5 Liters (with filter change, approx.)
Crash Test Info:
N/A (Motorcycle specific safety ratings are not directly comparable to automotive standards; focus is on rider protection and vehicle stability).
Braking System Type:
Dual disc front, single disc rear
Front Brake Calipers:
2-piston calipers (likely Brembo)
Rear Brake Calipers:
2-piston caliper (likely Brembo)
Frame Design:
Steel tube trellis (slotted frame) - renowned for rigidity and handling characteristics.
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, indicator lights.
ABS:
Not typically equipped on this model year Pantah.
Electronic Features:
Basic CDI ignition system, minimal electronic intervention.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 km or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specification).
Desmo Service:
Valve clearance adjustment (Desmodromic system) typically every 10,000-12,000 km.
Chain Maintenance:
Clean and lubricate chain every 1,000 km, adjust tension as needed.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification).
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled engine)
Electrical Gremlins:
Wiring harness degradation over time, stator output issues, regulator/rectifier failures.
Carburetor Synchronization:
Can be sensitive to atmospheric conditions and require frequent checks and adjustments.
Desmo Adjustment:
Requires precision and specific tools; incorrect adjustment can lead to valve seat damage or poor performance.
Frame Integrity:
While robust, older frames should be inspected for any signs of stress or corrosion, especially around weld points.
Manufacturer:
Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A.
Pantah Lineage:
The Pantah series was a pivotal development for Ducati, introducing the signature trellis frame which became a hallmark of the brand, and a more compact, modern V-twin engine layout.
Pantah Significance:
The 500 SL Pantah marked a significant departure from earlier Ducati models, paving the way for future generations of successful sportbikes.
Production Years:
Pantah series produced from 1980s to early 1990s. This specific 1998 designation might refer to a late production run or a specific market variant, but the Pantah line itself transitioned into other models by then. The manual is likely covering the core Pantah technology utilized or present in models around this time, or it's an approximation of the model's era.
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy
Performance Awards:
The Pantah's design and performance earned it critical acclaim in its era, establishing Ducati's reputation for handling and engine character.
Handling Reputation:
Highly regarded for its agility and responsive handling due to the trellis frame.
Manual Accreditation:
Factory authorized documentation, providing accurate and manufacturer-approved procedures.
