Market Segment:
Performance Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, owners, and independent mechanics specializing in classic Italian motorcycles.
Key Competitors:
Moto Guzzi V50 Monza, Laverda 500, BMW R45/R65
Unique Selling Points:
Ducati's signature desmodromic valve actuation, distinctive L-twin (or 90-degree V-twin) engine configuration, sporty handling, and classic Italian styling.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides essential technical data and repair procedures for maintaining and restoring the iconic Ducati Pantah 500SL, a crucial model in Ducati's evolution.
Engine System:
Full overhaul and component-level repair for the Ducati 500cc V-twin engine, including desmodromic valve train, lubrication, cooling, and fuel systems.
Transmission System:
Repair and maintenance of the 5-speed gearbox, clutch assembly (wet multi-plate), and final drive.
Braking System:
Front and rear brake system maintenance, including caliper overhauls, master cylinder servicing, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system troubleshooting, lighting, charging system (alternator/stator, rectifier/regulator), and starter motor.
Suspension System:
Front fork (Marzocchi typically) and rear shock absorber servicing, adjustment, and rebuild procedures.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing maintenance, and swingarm pivot service.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (e.g., Dell'Orto PHF/PHM) adjustment, cleaning, and rebuilding; fuel tank maintenance and fuel line replacement.
Exhaust System:
Exhaust pipe and muffler maintenance and replacement.
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, chain adjustment, and lubrication points.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic fault finding for common mechanical and electrical issues, diagnostic charts.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, inspection, component replacement (pistons, rings, valves, bearings), and reassembly.
Carburetor Tuning:
Synchronization, jetting adjustments, idle speed setting, and float level calibration.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Testing ignition coils, checking stator output, troubleshooting starter solenoid issues, and verifying wiring harness integrity.
Suspension Overhaul:
Fork seal replacement, damper rod servicing, and rear shock fluid changes.
Wheel And Tire Service:
Tire replacement, wheel bearing maintenance, and spoke tensioning (if applicable).
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic user maintenance through to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including specialized Ducati desmodromic valve adjustment procedures.
Engine Type:
4-stroke, 90-degree V-twin (Desmodromic)
Bore X Stroke:
72 mm x 61 mm (Typical for early Pantah models)
Compression Ratio:
9.5:1 (Approximate)
Valve Actuation:
Desmodromic (Two valves per cylinder)
Cooling System:
Air-cooled
Horsepower:
42 hp @ 7,800 rpm (Approximate, depending on tune and market)
Torque:
38 Nm @ 6,000 rpm (Approximate)
Carburetion:
2 x Dell'Orto PHF 30 or PHM 30 carburetors
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (minimum 91 RON recommended)
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition (Ducati or Marelli system)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 inches)
Seat Height:
Approx. 780 mm (30.7 inches)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 175 kg (386 lbs)
Fuel Capacity:
Approx. 18 Liters (4.8 US gallons)
Front Wheel Size:
18-inch
Front Tire Size:
3.50-18 (e.g., Pirelli Phantom or equivalent)
Rear Tire Size:
4.00-18 or 4.25-18 (e.g., Pirelli Phantom or equivalent)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
N/A (Cast wheels, hub mounting details in manual)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Vehicle safety standards for this era differ significantly from modern automotive ratings)
Braking System Type:
Dual front disc brakes (e.g., Brembo), single rear disc brake.
Lighting System:
Halogen headlamp, taillight, brake light, and turn signals.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (1,800-3,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first.
Desmo Valve Check Interval:
Every 6,000-10,000 km (3,700-6,000 miles), critical for engine performance and longevity.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 1,000 km (600 miles) and after riding in wet conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 20W/50 API SG or higher motorcycle specific oil (e.g., Motul 5100 20W-50)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 2.5 Liters (with filter change)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (recommended)
Coolant Type:
N/A (Air-cooled)
Common Wear Items:
Desmodromic valve adjustment complexity, wear in gearbox components (especially shifting drum and selectors), electrical system reliability (aging wiring, ignition components), and carburation tuning challenges.
Potential Problems:
Oil leaks from engine seals, clutch slave cylinder issues, and speedometer drive wear are common for bikes of this age.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Ducati 0905.40.000 (or equivalent aftermarket such as HIFLOFILTRO HF151)
Spark Plug Part Number:
NGK BPR6ES (or equivalent)
Brand Origin:
Founded in Bologna, Italy, in 1926.
Brand Legacy:
Renowned for racing heritage and innovative engineering, particularly its V-twin engines and desmodromic valve systems.
Pantah Significance:
The Pantah series was a pivotal model for Ducati, introducing the 90-degree V-twin engine designed by Fabio Taglioni, which would become the basis for future Ducati motorcycles and save the company.
Pantah 500Sl Positioning:
The SL (Super Light) variant typically offered improved performance, lighter components, and sportier aesthetics compared to earlier Pantah models.
Production Years:
The Pantah series was produced from 1980 to 1985, with the 500SL being an iteration within this period.
Manufacturing Location:
Bologna, Italy
