Segment:
Sportbike, Superbike
Target Audience:
Performance motorcycle enthusiasts, track day riders, Ducatisti
Competitors:
Ducati 999, Honda CBR1000RR, Yamaha YZF-R1, Suzuki GSX-R1000, Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
Vehicle Characteristics:
L-Twin engine, Desmodromic valve actuation, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) on 'S' model, high-performance chassis
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the iconic Ducati 749 series, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
Powertrain:
Engine (Desmodromic valve operation, fuel injection, ignition), Transmission, Clutch
Chassis:
Frame, Suspension (Front forks, Rear shock absorber), Swingarm, Wheels, Tires
Brakes:
Front and Rear Brake Systems (Hydraulic, Calipers, Discs, Master Cylinders, Lines)
Electrical:
Wiring Harness, Lighting, Ignition System, Battery, Charging System, ECU, Sensors
Bodywork:
Fairings, Seat, Fuel Tank, Ergonomics
Cooling:
Radiator, Coolant Circuits, Fan
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, Filter replacements, Chain adjustment, Spark plug replacement, Valve clearance checks
Major Repairs:
Engine teardown and rebuild, Transmission overhaul, Suspension servicing, Brake caliper rebuild
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, Fault code interpretation, Component testing
Disassembly Reassembly:
Step-by-step instructions with torque specifications for all major components
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, Component location, Testing procedures for electrical faults
Depth:
Comprehensive (suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts)
Detail Level:
Detailed exploded views, torque specifications, specialized tool requirements, diagnostic procedures
Engine Type:
L-Twin cylinder, four-stroke, liquid-cooled, Desmodromic valve actuation
Bore X Stroke:
88 x 61.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.7:1 (typical)
Horsepower 749:
106 hp @ 9500 rpm
Horsepower 749S:
108 hp @ 9500 rpm
Torque 749:
77 Nm (56.8 lb-ft) @ 7500 rpm
Torque 749S:
78 Nm (57.5 lb-ft) @ 7500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Marelli electronic fuel injection
Throttle Body Diameter:
54 mm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Valve Train:
Desmodromic, 4 valves per cylinder
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Transmission Type:
6-speed sequential manual
Clutch Type:
Dry, single plate, hydraulically actuated
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios detailed in the manual
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic (check manual for exact spec)
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1.5 - 1.8 Liters (check manual)
Safety Standard:
Motorcycle safety regulations (EU/US)
Braking System:
Dual 320mm discs front with radial-mount calipers, Single 245mm disc rear
Traction Control:
Ducati Traction Control (DTC) on 749S model (multi-level adjustable)
Frame Construction:
Trellis frame for rigidity and rider feedback
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, LED taillight
Infotainment System:
Basic instrumentation cluster with tachometer, speedometer, and indicator lights. No advanced infotainment system.
Traction Control:
Ducati Traction Control (DTC) on 749S model.
Connectivity Features:
None.
ECU:
Ducati Marelli ECU for engine control, fuel injection, and ignition timing.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 12,000 km or 12 months (check manual for specific mileage)
Desmo Service Interval:
Every 24,000 km or 24 months (crucial for valve adjustment)
Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 24,000 km or 24 months (critical to prevent engine damage)
Engine Oil Type:
Fully synthetic SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (API SG/SH/SJ, JASO MA recommended)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, 50% mixture with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check manual for specifics)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.8 - 4.2 Liters (with filter change, check dipstick/sight glass)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 2.0 - 2.2 Liters
Common Wear Items:
Cam belts, clutch plates, throttle position sensor (TPS), voltage regulator, fuel pump
Maintenance Importance:
Strict adherence to desmo service and belt replacement is critical to prevent catastrophic engine failure.
Motorsport Heritage:
The 749 platform shares lineage with Ducati's successful racing motorcycles, contributing to its performance reputation.
Review Consensus:
Praised for its sharp handling, distinctive Italian styling, and engaging L-twin character, though often seen as a stepping stone to the 999 or 748.