Ducati 749 User Manual

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DUCATI749

Owner’s manual

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Hearty welcome among Ducati fans! Please accept our
best compliments for choosing a Ducati motorcycle. We
think you will ride your Ducati motorcycle for long
journeys as well as short daily trips. Ducati Motor Holding
s.p.a wishes you smooth and enjoyable riding.
We are steadily doing our best to improve our “Technical
Assistance” service. For this reason, we recommend you
to strictly follow the indications given in this manual,
especially for motorcycle running-in. In this way, your
Ducati motorbike will surely give you unforgettable
emotions.
For any servicing or suggestions you might need, please
contact our authorized service centres.

Enjoy your ride!

Note

Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. declines any liability
whatsoever for any mistakes incurred in drawing up this
manual. The information contained herein is valid at the
time of going to print. Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A.
reserves the right to make any changes required by the
future development of the above-mentioned products.

For your safety, as well as to preserve the warranty,
reliability and worth of your motorcycle, use original
Ducati spare parts only.

Warning

This manual forms an integral part of the
motorcycle and - if a transfer of title occurs - must always
be handed over to the new owner.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

General 6

Warranty 6
Symbols 6
Useful information for safe riding 7
Carrying the max load allowed 8
Identification data 9

Controls 10

Position of motorcycle controls 10
Instrument panel 11
LCD - main functions 12
LCD - how to set/display parameters 14
The immobilizer system 19
Keys 19
Code card 20
Procedure to disable immobilizer engine block through
throttle twistgrip 21
Duplicate keys 22
Ignition switch and steering lock 23
Left switch 24
Clutch lever 25
Cold start lever 26
Right switch 27

Throttle twistgrip 27
Front brake lever 28
Rear brake pedal 29
Gear change pedal 29
Adjusting the gear change and rear brake pegs 30
Gear change pedal adjustment 31
Rear brake pedal adjustment 32

Main components and devices 33

Location 33
Tank filler plug 34
Seat/fuel tank adjustment 35
Seat catch and helmet hook 36
Side stand 38
Steering damper 39
Front fork adjusters 39
Shock absorber adjusters 41
Changing motorcycle track alignment 42

Directions for use 43

Running-in recommendations 43
Pre-ride checks 45
Starting the engine 46
Moving off 48
Braking 48
Stopping the motorcycle 49
Parking 49
Refueling 50
Tool kit and accessories 51

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Main maintenance operations 52

Removing the fairing 52
Checking and topping up the coolant level 55
Checking brake and clutch fluid level 57
Checking brake pads for wear 58
Lubricating cables and joints 59
Throttle cable tension adjustment 60
Charging the battery 61
Chain tension inspection 62
Chain lubrication 62
Changing the high and low beam bulbs 63
Changing the parking light bulb 65
Front turn indicators 66
Rear turn indicators 66
Stop light 67
Number plate light 67
Beam setting 68
Rear view mirror adjustment 69
Tubeless tyres 70
Checking engine oil level 72
Cleaning and replacing the spark plugs 73
Cleaning the motorcycle 74
Storing the bike away 75
Important notes 75

Technical data 76

Overall dimensions 76
Weights 76
Top-ups 77
Engine 78
Timing system 78

Performance data 79
Spark plugs 79
Brakes 79
Transmission 80
Frame 81
Wheels 81
Tyres 81
Suspensions 82
Exhaust system 82
Available colours 82
Electric system 83

For United States of America version only 87

Routine maintenance record 96

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GENERAL

Warranty

In your own interest, and in order to guarantee product
reliability, you are strongly advised to refer to a Ducati
Dealer or Authorized Workshop for any servicing
requiring particular technical expertise. Our highly skilled
staff have access to the implements required to perform
any servicing job at best, using Ducati original spare parts
only as the best guarantee for full interchangeability,
smooth running and long life.

All Ducati motorcycles come with a “Warranty Card”.
However, warranty does not apply to the motorcycles
used in competitions. No motorcycle part may be
tampered with, altered, or replaced with parts other than
original Ducati spare parts during the warranty period, or
the warranty will be automatically invalidated.

Symbols

Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. advises you to read this
manual carefully so as to become familiar with your
motorcycle. In case of any doubts, please call a Ducati
Dealer or Authorized Workshop. The information
contained herein will prove useful on your trips - and
Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. wishes you smooth,
enjoyable riding - and will help you keep the performance
of your motorcycle unchanged for a long time.

Warning

Failure to comply with these instructions may put
you at risk and lead to severe injury or death.

Important

Possibility of damaging the motorcycle and/or its
components.

Note

Additional information concerning the job being
carried out.

The terms right and left are referred to the motorcycle
viewed from the riding position.

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Useful information for safe riding

Warning

Read this section before riding your motorcycle.

Accidents are frequently due to inexperience. Always
make sure you have your licence with you when riding;
you need a valid licence to be entitled to ride your
motorcycle.
Do not lend your motorcycle to inexperienced riders or
who do not hold a valid licence.
Both rider and pillion passenger must always wear a
safety helmet.
Wear proper clothing, with no loose items or accessories
that may become tangled in the controls or limit your
zone of vision.
Never start or run the engine indoors. Exhaust gases are
poisonous and may lead to loss of consciousness or even
death within a short time.
Both rider and pillion passenger should keep their feet on
the footpegs when the motorcycle is in motion.
Always hold the handlebars firmly with both hands so
you will be ready for sudden changes of direction or in
the road surface. The pillion passenger should always
hold on to the suitable belt on the rear seat with both
hands.
Ride within the law and observe national and local rules.
Always respect speed limits where these are posted.
However, always adjust your speed to the visibility, road
and traffic conditions you are riding in.
Always signal your intention to turn or pull to the next

lane in good time using the suitable turn indicators.
Be sure you are clearly visible and do not ride within the
blind spot of vehicles ahead.
Be very careful when tackling road junctions, or when
riding in the areas near exits from private grounds, car
parks or on slip roads to access motorways.
Always turn off the engine when refueling.
Be extremely careful not to spill fuel on the engine or on
the exhaust pipe when refueling.
Do not smoke when refueling.
While refueling, you may inhale noxious fuel vapors.
Should any fuel drops be spilled on your skin or clothing,
immediately wash with soap and water and change your
clothing.
Always remove the key when you leave your motorcycle
unattended.
The engine, exhaust pipes, and mufflers stay hot for a
long time.

Warning

The exhaust system might be hot, even after
engine is switched off; pay particular attention not to
touch exhaust system with any body part and do not park
the vehicle next to inflammable material (wood, leaves
etc.).

Park your motorcycle where no one is likely to hit it and
use the side stand.
Never park on uneven or soft ground or your motorcycle
may fall over.

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Carrying the maximum load allowed

Your motorcycle is designed for long-distance riding,
carrying the maximum load allowed in full safety.
Even weight distribution is critical to preserving safety
features and avoiding trouble when performing sudden
manoeuvres or riding on bumpy roads.

Information about carrying capacity

The total weight of the motorcycle in running order
including rider, pillion passenger, luggage and additional
accessories should not exceed 375 Kg.

Arrange your luggage or heavy accessories in the lowest
possible position and close to motorcycle centre.
Be sure to secure the luggage to the supports provided
on the motorcycle as firmly as possible. Improperly
secured luggage may affect stability.
Never fix bulky or heavy objects to the handlebar or to
the front mud guard as this would affect stability and
cause danger.
Do not insert any objects you may need to carry into the
gaps of the frame as these may foul moving parts.
Make sure the tyres are inflated to the proper pressure
indicated at page 70 and that they are in good condition.

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Identification data

All Ducati motorcycles have two identification numbers,
for frame (fig. 1) and engine (fig. 2).

Frame number

Engine number

Note

These numbers identify the motorcycle model and

are required when ordering spare parts.

fig. 2

fig. 1

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CONTROLS

Warning

This section details the position and function of all
the controls you need to drive your motorcycle. Be sure
to read this information carefully before you use the
controls.

Position of motorcycle controls (fig. 3)

1) Instrument panel.

2) Key-operated ignition switch and steering lock.

3) Left switch.

4) Clutch lever.

5) Cold start control.

6) Right switch.

7) Throttle twistgrip.

8) Front brake lever.

9) Gear change pedal.

10) Rear brake pedal.

fig. 3

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6

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5

3

4

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6

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7

4

2

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Instrument panel (fig. 4)

1) LCD (see page 12).

2) Engine revolution meter (rpm)
Indicates engine rpm.

3) Neutral light N (green).
Comes on when gearbox is in neutral.

4) Low fuel light (yellow).
Comes on when there are about 3 liters fuel left in the
tank.

5) Turn indicator light (green).
Comes on and flashes when a turn indicator is on.

6) Engine oil pressure light (red).
Comes on when engine oil pressure is too low. It comes
on when the ignition is switched to ON and normally
goes out a few seconds after engine starts.
It may shortly come on when the engine is hot, however,
it should go out as the engine revs up.

Important

If this light (6) stays on, stop the engine or it may
suffer severe damage.

7) High beam light (blue).
Comes on when high beam is on.

8) EOBD light (amber)
The engine control unit turns on this light permanently to
indicate an error leading to engine block.

fig. 4

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The light doubles as an indicator for the immobilizer
override procedure using the throttle twistgrip.
When no errors are present, the light should come on
when the ignition switch is set to ON and should go out
after a few seconds (normally after 1.8 – 2 sec.).

9) Gear change threshold light (red)
Indicates that control unit has activated the injection
limiter. The lower portion of the light comes on 200 rpm
below injection limiter switch-on rpm; the top portion of
the light comes on 100 rpm below injection limiter
switch-on rpm.

10) Control buttons
These buttons are used to display and set instrument
panel parameters.

LCD – Main functions

Warning

Stop the motorcycle before using the instrument
panel controls. Never operate the instrument panel
controls while riding.

1) Speedometer
Gives road speed.

2) Odometer
Gives total distance covered.

3) Trip meter
Gives distance covered since last resetting.

4) Clock.

5) Lap time.

6) Lap top speed recording.

7) Battery voltage indicator.

8) Air temperature indicator.

9) Consumption indicator.

10) Coolant temperature indicator.
Gives engine coolant temperature.

Important

Stop riding if the temperature reaches the max.
value, otherwise the engine might damage.

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11) Maintenance counter.
This light comes on upon reaching the mileage specified
for preventive maintenance. The light will keep flashing
until the motorcycle covers the next 50 km and then will
stay on permanently until the counter is reset at an
DUCATI Authorized Workshop within the preventive
maintenance procedure.

12) Immobilizer indicator.
The indicator stays on when key code is wrong or is not
acknowledged, and will flash after the immobilizer has
been overridden using the throttle twistgrip (see page

21).

Important

The instrument panel is part of the on-board
electronic injection/ignition system diagnostics. The
relevant menus are for use by trained personnel only. If
you accidentally access this function, turn the key to OFF
and have the motorcycle inspected at an authorized
Ducati Service Center.

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11

12

9

7

8

5

2

3

6

1

4

fig. 5

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LCD – How to set/display parameters

When the key is turned from OFF to ON, the instrument
panel runs a check-up routine of all instruments
(pointers, display, lights) (See fig. 7).

Calling up the left display functions (A).

Press the button (1) (fig. 6) with the key turned to ON to
cycle through trip meter, odometer and lap time
indication.

Calling up the right display functions (B)

Press the button (2) (fig. 6) with the key turned to ON to
cycle through battery voltage, air temperature and
consumption indication.

OFF CHECK 1 CHECK 2 ON

fig. 7

2

B

A

1

fig. 6

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Clock setting

Hold down the button (1) for at least 2 seconds.
Press the button (2) to select AM/PM. Press the button
(1) to confirm selection and enter hours setting mode.
Set hours using the button (2). Press the button (1) to
confirm and enter minutes setting mode.
Set minutes using the button (2). Press the button (1) to
confirm and exit the clock setting mode.

Resetting the trip meter
Select TRIP indication in the display (3). Hold down the
button (2) for at least 2 seconds to reset displayed trip

meter indication.

2

1

3

fig. 8

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Setting special function (vehicle model and units of
measurement)

The engine control unit transmits the correct vehicle
model and unit measurement information automatically
for the instrument panel to display. To force a change of
these parameters, turn the key from OFF to ON while
holding down both buttons (1) and (2).
Press the button (1) to scroll through available
configurations.
To store your selection, hold down the button (2) for 5
seconds, until the display will read OFF. Set the key to
OFF.

Note

The dotted boxes in the figure are the display areas

for vehicle version (normal, R or S).

Lap time recording (fig. 10 and 11)
This function lets you record lap time and displays top
speed and engine rpm during that lap.
Select the LAP mode in the display (4)(see page 14).
Press the engine start button (5) while riding to start the
on-board chronometer. Pressing the button (5) again will
stop the chronometer.

Note

In the LAP mode, the engine may not be started

using the starter button (5).

fig. 9

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After measuring lap times, up to 19 times may be
retrieved and displayed on the LCD. Pressing the button
(1) will scroll through recorded times. The instrument
panel provides the following information:

- Lap number (6)

- Top engine rpm (7) during selected lap

- Lap time (4)

- Top speed (8) during that lap.

Note

The tachometer reads a speed higher than the
actual one, on average there is 8% difference. Maximum
speed stored on the LCD is the actual speed of the
vehicle during the lap concerned.

To wipe off recorded lap times, hold down the button (2)
for over 5 seconds.

6

8

4

2

1

7

fig. 10

5

fig. 11

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Coolant temperature function (fig. 12 and 13)
When coolant temperature drops below -40 °C/-40 °F,
some flashing dots appear on the display and the amber
EOBD light comes on (8, fig. 4).
When coolant temperature is between -39 °C /-38.2 °F
and +45 °C/+113 °F or between +120 °C/+248 °F and
+124 °C/+255.2 °F, the display provides a flashing
temperature indication.
When coolant temperature is between +46° C/+114.8 °F
and +119 °C/+246.2 °F, temperature indication stays on
permanently.
When coolant temperature exceeds +125 °C/+257 °F, a
flashing 125 °C/257 °F temperature indication appears on
the display, and the amber EOBD light comes on (8, fig.

4).

Backlighting function

A light sensor detects light intensity and adjusts LCD and
warning lights intensity accordingly.

When the parking light is on, the instrument panel lights
up.

- 39 °C

- 40

°

C

+ 46

°

C

+ 45

°

C

+ 119 °C

+ 120

°

C

+ 124

°

C

+ 125

°

C

fig. 12

fig. 13

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The immobilizer system

For improved anti-theft protection, the motorcycle is
equipped with an IMMOBILIZER, an electronic system
that inhibits engine operation whenever the ignition
switch is turned off.
Accommodated in the handgrip of each ignition key is an
electronic device that modulates an output signal. This
signal is generated by a special antenna incorporated in
the switch when the ignition is turned on and changes
every time. The modulated signal acts as a “password”
and tells the CPU that an "authorised" ignition key is
being used to start up the engine. When the CPU
recognises the signal, it enables engine start-up.

Keys (fig. 14)
The Owner receives a set of keys comprising:

- 1 RED key A

- 2 BLACK keys B

Warning

Red key A has a rubber cover for preserving it in
perfect conditions and avoiding contact with other keys.
Never remove this protection unless really needed.

The keys B are regular ignition keys and are used to:

- start up the engine

- open the lock of the fuel tank filler plug

- open the seat lock (Biposto).

The key A performs the same functions as the keys B,
and is also used to wipe off and re-program other black
keys, if needed.

Note

The three keys have a small plate (1) attached that

reports their identification number.

Warning

Keep the keys in different places. Store the plate
(1) and the key A in a safe place.
It is also recommended to use always the same black
key to use the bike.

1

B

A

fig. 14

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Code card

The keys come with a CODE CARD (fig. 15) that reports:

A) (fig. 16) the electronic code to be used in case of
engine block, i.e. bike did not start after key-ON.

B) (fig. 16) the mechanical code for the keys to be
reported to the DUCATI Service network when you are
ordering any duplicate keys.

Warning

Keep the CODE CARD in a safe place. However, it
is advisable to keep the electronic code printed on the
CODE CARD handy when you ride your motorcycle, in
case it is necessary to override engine block through the
procedure that uses the throttle twistgrip.
In case of faulty immobilizer system, the following
procedure gives the chance to disable "engine block"
function -signalled by the orange EOBD warning light that
comes on (8, fig. 4).
But this operation can be carried out only if the electronic
code indicated on the code card is known.

fig. 15

B

A

fig. 16

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Procedure to disable immobilizer engine block
through throttle twistgrip

1) Turn the key to ON and fully open throttle. Keep it
open. The EOBD warning light turns off after 8 seconds.

2) Release the throttle as soon as the EOBD warning
light turns off.

3) EOBD pilot light will flash. Count a number of flashes
corresponding to the first figure of the code, open full
throttle and keep the position for 2 seconds, then
release. In this way the input of one figure is
acknowledged, EOBD pilot light comes on and stays on
for 4 seconds. Carry out the same procedure for the
following figures of the code. Failure to do so will cause
the EOBD pilot light to flash 20 times, then it will stay on.
This means that the procedure has been aborted. It will
be necessary to turn the key to OFF and restart from
point (1).

4) Repeat operations described in point (3) up to the last
figure of the code.

5) Release the throttle twistgrip, if the code is correct,
the EOBD warning light shall flash signalling that engine
block has been disabled. The warning light turns off after
4 seconds.
If the code is NOT correct, the EOBD warning light stays
on and it is then possible to turn the key to OFF and
repeat the procedure, starting from point (1), as many
times as necessary (infinite).

Note

Should the throttle twistgrip be released before the
set time, the warning light turns on again. It is then
necessary to bring the key to OFF and restart the
procedure from point (1).

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Operation

When the ignition key is turned to OFF, the immobilizer
inhibits engine operation.
When the ignition key is turned back to ON to start the
engine, the following happens:

1) if the CPU recognised the code, the CODE light on the
instrument panel will flash briefly. This means that the
immobilizer system has recognised the key code and
enabled engine ignition. When you press the START
button, the engine will start up.

2) If the CODE light stays on, it means that the code has
not been recognised. When this is the case, turn the
ignition key back to OFF and then to ON again. If the
engine still does not start, try with another black key.
If the other key does not work out either, contact the
DUCATI Service network.

3) Should the CODE pilot light still be flashing, it means
that an immobilizer system fault was reset (e.g. with the
overriding procedure through throttle grip). Turn the key
to OFF and back to ON, the immobilizer pilot light should
go back to its normal operation (see point 1).

Warning

The keys accommodate electronic components
inside. If dropped or hit, they might damage.
Use only one key during the procedure. Failure to do so
might prevent the system from recognizing the code of
the key in use.

Duplicate keys

If you need any duplicate keys, contact the DUCATI
Service network with all the keys you have left and your
CODE CARD.
DUCATI Service will program new keys and re-program
your original keys, up to 8 keys in total.
You may be asked to identify yourself as the legitimate
owner of the motorcycle. Be sure you have any
documents you might need to this end ready.
The codes of any keys not submitted will be wiped off
from the memory to make those keys unserviceable in
case they have been lost.

Note

If you sell your motorcycle, do not forget to give all

keys and the CODE CARD to the new owner.

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Ignition switch and steering lock (fig. 17)

It is located in front of the fuel tank and has four
positions:
A) ON: lights and engine on;
B) OFF: lights and engine off;
C) LOCK: steering locked;
D) P: parking light on and steering lock.

Note

To move the key to the last two positions, press it
down before turning it. Switching to (B), (C) and (D), you
will be able to take the key out.

Important

This vehicle is equipped with an energy-saving
CPU. If the key stays ON for a long period but the
ignition button is not pressed within 15 seconds, the
CPU will stop operating to avoid current absorption.
Move the key to OFF and then to ON again.

fig. 17

A

B

N

O

F

F

O

H

S

U

P

LOCK

N

IO

P

IT

N

C

IG

D

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Left switch (fig. 18)

1) Dip switch, light dip switch, two positions:
position = low beam on;
position = high beam on.

2) Switch = 3-position turn indicator:
centre position = OFF;
position = left turn;
position = right turn.
To reset turn indicators, switch returns to central
position, push in.

3) Button = warning horn.

4) Button = passing.

4

1

2

3

fig. 18

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Clutch lever (fig. 19)

Lever (1) disengages the clutch. It features a dial adjuster
(2) for lever distance from the twistgrip on handlebar.
Lever distance from twistgrip is set via knob (2) (10 click
positions). Turn clockwise to push lever far from
twistgrip, or counterclockwise to take it closer.
When you pull in the lever (1), you will disengage the
engine from the gearbox and therefore from the driving
wheel. Using the clutch properly is essential to smooth
riding, especially when moving off.

Warning

Set clutch and brake lever when motorcycle is
stopped.

Important

Using the clutch properly will avoid damage to
transmission parts and spare the engine.

Note

It is possible to start the engine with side stand
down and the gearbox in neutral. When starting the bike
with a gear engaged, pull the clutch lever (in this case the
side stand must be up).

fig. 19

2 1

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A

1

B

fig. 20

Cold start lever (fig. 20)
Use this device to start the engine from cold. It will
increase the engine idling speed after starting.
Lever positions:
A) = closed
B) = fully open.
The lever can be opened and closed gradually to adjust
speed until engine is fully warm (see page 46).

Important

Never use the cold start device when the engine is
warm or leave it open when riding.

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Right switch (fig. 21)

1) Switch, light switch, three positions:
right position = light off;
centre position = front and rear parking lights,
number plate and instrument panel lights on;
left position = headlight, front and rear parking lights,
number plate and instrument panel lights on.

Note

This device is not fitted on the Australia and Japan

versions.

2) Switch for ENGINE STOP, two positions:
position (RUN) = run.
position (OFF) = stop.

Warning

This switch is mainly intended for use in
emergency cases when you need to stop the engine
quickly. After stopping the engine, return the switch to
the position to enable starting.

Important

Riding with the lights on, stopping the engine using
switch (2) and leaving the ignition key in the ON
position, may run the battery flat as the lights will remain
on.

3) Button = engine start.

2

1

3

4

fig. 21

Throttle twistgrip (fig. 21)
The twistgrip (4) on the right handlebar opens the
throttles. When released, it will spring back to the initial
position (idling speed).

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Front brake lever (fig. 22)

Pull in the lever (1) towards the twistgrip to operate the
front brake. The system is hydraulically operated and you
just need to pull the lever gently.
The brake lever is provided with an adjuster (2) for lever
distance adjustment from twistgrip on handlebar.
Lever distance from twistgrip is set via knob (2) (10 click
positions). Turn clockwise to push lever far from
twistgrip, or counterclockwise to take it closer.

1 2

fig. 22

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Rear brake pedal (fig. 23)

Push down on the pedal (1) with your foot to operate the
rear brake.
The system is hydraulically operated.

Gear change pedal (fig. 24)
The gear change pedal is at rest when in the central
position N, and automatically returns to the central
position. When in this position, light N (3, fig. 4) on
istrument panel is on.
The pedal can be moved:
down = push down on the pedal to engage 1stgear and
to shift down. The N light will go out.
up = lift the pedal to engage the 2ndgear and then the 3rd,
4th, 5thand 6thgear. Each time you move the pedal you will
engage the next gear.

1

fig. 23

N

2

3

4

5

6

1

fig. 24

Adjusting the gear change and rear brake pegs

Note

The position of the gear change and rear brake

pedals may be changed by using different combinations
of the upper (A and B) and lower (C, D, E, F and G)
mounting holes to secure the footpeg brackets. The
figure shows gear change footpeg adjustment. The rear
brake footpeg is adjusted by the same procedure.

Warning

Gear change and rear brake footpegs are critical

safety components. Have them adjusted at an Authorized
DUCATI Workshop.

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fig. 25

A

B

C

D

G

E

F