Target Audience:
Ducati owners, independent motorcycle repair shops, enthusiasts with mechanical aptitude
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, enabling cost-effective servicing and deeper understanding of the motorcycle's systems.
Alternatives:
Unofficial user-generated forums, generic Haynes/Clymer manuals (often less detailed or specific to certain trims).
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Includes exploded views, schematics, and step-by-step photographic guides crucial for complex procedures.
Diagnostic Charts:
Empowers users to identify and resolve issues systematically.
Covered Sections:
Engine, Chassis, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Transmission, Suspension, Brakes, Bodywork, Troubleshooting, Maintenance Schedules, Specifications
Page Count:
Estimated 400-500 pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals)
Manual Type:
Factory Authorized Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Full engine disassembly, inspection, assembly, torque specifications, timing procedures, valve clearance adjustment, desmodromic system setup
Transmission:
Clutch system, gearbox disassembly, reassembly, lubrication, shift mechanism
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, ignition system, charging system, lighting, starter motor, ECU diagnostics
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (throttle bodies, injectors, fuel pump, regulator), fuel tank, lines
Suspension:
Front fork (Öhlins for R models), rear shock absorber, linkages, adjustments, seal replacement
Brakes:
Brake caliper overhaul, master cylinder service, bleeding procedures, disc inspection, pad replacement
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan operation, coolant specifications, flushing procedures
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter replacement, oil specifications, oil change intervals
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug replacement, brake fluid replacement
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension service, electrical component replacement, body panel repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, error code explanations, electrical fault finding
Technical Data Provision:
Torque specifications, tightening sequences, measurement data, tolerance values
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and component rebuilds. Detailed diagnostic procedures and specific component repair instructions.
Engine Type:
L-Twin, Four-stroke, Desmodromic valve actuation
Displacement:
748 cc (for standard 749), 749 cc (for R and S variants)
Bore X Stroke:
749/749S: 94 mm x 54.5 mm; 749R: 95 mm x 54.5 mm
Compression Ratio:
749/749S: 11.0:1; 749R: 11.7:1
Valvetrain:
2 valves per cylinder, Desmodromic actuation
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled
Horsepower:
749: ~108 hp @ 10,000 rpm; 749S: ~115 hp @ 10,500 rpm; 749R: ~121 hp @ 10,500 rpm (claimed)
Torque:
749: ~75 Nm @ 8,000 rpm; 749S: ~76 Nm @ 8,500 rpm; 749R: ~77 Nm @ 8,500 rpm (claimed)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI - Multi-Point Injection), with single 54mm throttle body per cylinder
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 95 RON
Ignition System:
Digital electronic ignition with spark advance
Oil Type:
Fully synthetic motorcycle oil, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (refer to manual for specific Ducati recommendations)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.5 Liters (with filter change)
Length:
Approx. 2090 mm (varies slightly by model)
Width:
Approx. 760 mm (at handlebars)
Height:
Approx. 1100 mm (at seat)
Dry Weight:
749: ~189 kg; 749S: ~188 kg; 749R: ~184 kg (claimed)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 200-205 kg (fully fueled, ready to ride)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
15.5 Liters (including 3.5 Liter reserve)
Safety Certifications:
CE compliance for European markets
Brakes:
Dual 320mm discs with 4-piston calipers (front), Single 240mm disc with 2-piston caliper (rear). Radial-mount calipers on S and R models.
Suspension Tuning:
Adjustable suspension for optimal handling and stability.
Frame Design:
Steel trellis frame for rigidity and rider feedback.
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, LED taillight.
Instrument Cluster:
Digital/Analog combination display showing speed, RPM, odometer, trip meters, coolant temperature, clock, and warning lights.
ABS:
ABS was not a standard feature on all 749 models during this period; it was often an optional upgrade or specific to certain markets/trims. The manual would detail systems if present.
Diagnostic Port:
Likely equipped with a diagnostic connector for use with Ducati proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., for ECU reading and adjustments).
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Desmo Service:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or annually for valve clearance adjustment and desmodromic system check/adjustment. This is a critical and complex procedure for Ducatis.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as per manual.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, or more frequently if moisture contamination is detected.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years, depending on coolant type.
Engine Oil Grade:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 (e.g., Motul 5100 15W-50 is a popular choice)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (typically red or pink for Ducati).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (refer to manual for specific recommendations for ABS/non-ABS models if applicable).
Clutch Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (often shared with the brake system).
Desmodromic System Wear:
Wear on desmo valves and shims can lead to noisy engines or poor running if not maintained. Regular desmo servicing is crucial.
Electrical Gremlins:
Some owners report minor electrical issues, often related to connections or grounds. Thorough inspection and dielectric grease application as per the manual can prevent these.
Regulator Rectifier:
While less common than on some other Italian bikes of the era, the charging system components are worth monitoring.
Fuel Level Sender:
Intermittent issues with the fuel gauge can occur, often related to the sender unit in the tank.
Brand Legacy:
Ducati has a rich history in motorcycle racing, particularly in World Superbike (WSBK), influencing the design and performance of its road-going models like the 749.
Predecessor:
The 749 series was introduced as a parallel model to the 999, offering a smaller displacement alternative with a focus on handling and agility. It replaced the older 748 model.
Key Differences Between Trims:
749 (Base): Standard components. 749S (Sport): Upgraded suspension (e.g., fully adjustable forks, higher-spec rear shock), often revised engine mapping. 749R (Racing): Most potent variant, featuring higher-spec engine internals (e.g., titanium valves, different cams), enhanced suspension (often Öhlins), lighter components, and exclusive styling cues, homologated for racing.
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy
Motorcycle Press Reviews:
The 749 series, particularly the 'R' model, received praise for its sharp handling, potent engine, and racing pedigree from various motorcycle publications. Often lauded for its agility compared to larger displacement twins.
Performance Benchmarking:
Competed favorably in its class against Japanese and European sportbikes of similar displacement, valued for its track capability and street presence.
