Ducati MR696 Abs 2012 Owner's manual

Owner's manual

US/CANADA

1

We'd like to welcome you among Ducati enthusiasts and congratulate you on your excellent choice of
motorcycle. We imagine you'll be riding your Ducati motorcycle for long trips as well as short daily excursions.
Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. wishes you smooth and enjoyable riding. wishes you smooth and enjoyable
riding.

Your motorcycle is the result of constant research and development by Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A., so it's
important that the standard of quality is upheld through careful observance of the scheduled maintenance
chart and the use of original spare parts. In the Owner's Manual you'll find instructions for performing small
maintenance procedures. The most important servicing and maintenance procedures are contained in the
Service Manual available at Authorized Service Centers of Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A..

In your own interest, for your safety and in order to guarantee product reliability, you are strongly advised to
refer to our authorized Dealers and Service Centers for any operations listed in the scheduled maintenance
chart, seepage 160.

Our highly skilled staff has access to the special tools and equipment needed to perform any servicing
procedure with expertise. They use only Ducati original spare parts as the best guarantee for full
interchangeability, smooth running and long life.

All Ducati motorcycles come with a Warranty Card. The warranty does not apply to motorcycles used in racing
competitions. Any tampering or even partial modification of the components will result in automatic
invalidation of Warranty rights. Incorrect or insufficient servicing procedures, use of non-original spare parts
or parts not explicitly approved by Ducati may lead to the invalidation of the Warranty, besides potential
damage and reduced performance.

2

Table of Contents

California emission control warranty statement 25
Your warranty rights and obligations 25
Manufacturer’s warranty coverage 26
Owner's warranty responsibilities: 26
California evaporation emission system 27
Ducati limited warranty on emission control
system 28

Introduction 6

Safety guidelines 6
Warning symbols used in the manual 6
Intended use 7
Rider's obligations 8
Reporting of safety defects 10
Rider's training 11
Apparel 11
Safety “Best Practices” 13
Refuelling 15
Carrying the maximum load allowed 16
Dangerous products - warnings 17
Vehicle identification number 19
Engine identification number 20
Nameplate position 21
Noise and exhaust emission control system
information 25

Instrument Panel (Dashboard) 32

Instrument panel 32
LCD - Main functions 36
LCD - How to set/display parameters 38
“Odometer” total mileage indicator 42
“Speed” indicator 43
“TRIP” mileage indicator 44
“TRIP FUEL” mileage on reserve indicator 45
Clock indicator 46
Air temperature indicator 47
Engine oil temperature indicator 48
Service indicator 51
Battery voltage indicator (BATT) 52
Engine idling setting (RPM) 54
Back-lighting setting 55
Lap timer display (LAP) 57
Saved data display (LAP Memory) 59

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DDA data logger 61
Erase DDA 63
ABS disabling 65
Clock setup 66
Instrument panel diagnostics 68
Headlight “smart” switch-off 74
Headlight “smart” switch-on 74
The Immobilizer system 75
Keys 76
Code card 77
Immobilizer override procedure 78
Operation 80
Duplicate keys 81

Controls 84

Position of motorcycle controls 84
Key-operated ignition switch and steering lock 85
Left-hand switch 86
Clutch lever 87
Cold start lever 88
Right-hand switch 89
Throttle twistgrip 90
Front brake lever 91
Rear brake pedal 92
Gear change pedal 93

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Adjusting the position of the gearchange and rear
brake pedals 94

Main components and devices 96

Position on the vehicle 96
Tank filler plug 97
Seat lock 98
Helmet holder cable 99
Side stand 100
Rear shock absorber adjusters 102

Riding the motorcycle 104

Running-in recommendations 104
Pre-ride checks 106
Starting the engine 108
Moving off 111
Braking 112
Stopping the motorcycle 114
Refuelling 115
Parking 116
Tool kit and accessories 117

Main maintenance operations 118

Changing the air filter 118
Checking brake and clutch fluid level 118
Checking brake pads for wear 120
Lubricating joints 121
Adjusting the throttle cable 122
Charging and maintenance of the battery during
winter storage 123
Removing the battery 125
Refitting the battery 133
Checking drive chain tension 144
Chain lubrication 146
Replacing the bulbs 147
Beam setting 148
Tyres 150
Check engine oil level 153
Cleaning and replacing the spark plugs 155
Cleaning the motorcycle 157
Storing the motorcycle 159
Important notes 159

Maintenance 160

Scheduled maintenance chart: operations to be
performed by the Dealer 160
Scheduled maintenance chart: operations to be
performed by the customer 163

Technical data 164

Weights 164
Overall dimensions (mm) 165
Engine 168
Timing system 168
Performance data 169
Spark plugs 169
Fuel system 169
Brakes 170
Transmission 171
Frame 172
Wheels 172
Tyres 172
Suspensions 172
Exhaust system 172
Available colours 173
Electrical system 174

Routine maintenance record 180

Routine maintenance record 180

5

Introduction

Attention

Failure to observe these instructions may lead
to a hazardous situation and cause severe injury to
the rider or others, or even death.

Safety guidelines

Your safety and that of others are very important.
Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. urges you to ride your
motorcycle responsibly.
Before using your motorcycle for the first time,
please read this manual carefully from start to finish
and closely follow the guidelines. This will allow you
to obtain all information regarding a correct use and
maintenance. If you have any doubts or questions,
consult a Dealer or Authorized Service Center.

Warning symbols used in the manual

Different forms of information regarding potential
hazards that may affect you or others have been
used. These include:

- Safety stickers on the motorcycle;

- Safety warnings preceded by a warning symbol
and by one or the two words Caution or
Important.

6

Important

Possibility of damaging the motorcycle and/or

its components.

Note

Additional information regarding the job being

performed.

The terms RIGHT and LEFT are referred to the
motorcycle viewed from the riding position.

Intended use

This motorcycle must be used only on road surfaces
with asphalt or flat and even pavement.
This motorcycle may not be used on dirt roads or for
off-road riding.

Attention

Using the bike off-road may cause the rider to
lose control, which in turn may lead to vehicle
damage, injury or death.

Attention

This motorcycle must not be used for towing or
for the addition of a sidecar, since this may cause a
loss of control and consequent accident.

This motorcycle carries the rider and can carry a
passenger after the supplied kit is installed. It can only
be installed at a Ducati Dealer or authorized Service
Center.

Attention

The total weight of the motorcycle in running
order including rider, passenger, luggage and
additional accessories should not exceed 390 kg/859
lb.

7

Rider's obligations

All riders must hold a driver's license.

Attention

Riding without a license is illegal and punishable
by law. Make sure you always have your license on
you when setting out on the motorcycle. Do not allow
inexpert riders or those not in possession of an
authorized driver's license to ride the motorcycle.

Do not ride the motorcycle when under the influence
of alcohol or drugs.

Attention

Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is
illegal and punishable by law.

Avoid taking medication before riding the motorcycle
if you have not consulted your doctor about potential
side effects.

8

Attention

Some medications may induce sleepiness or
other effects that impair reflexes and the ability of the
rider to control the motorcycle, which may lead to
accident.

Some countries require mandatory insurance
coverage.

Attention

Check the laws applicable to your country. Take
out an insurance policy and keep the policy in a safe
place along with the other motorcycle documents.

To protect the safety of the rider and/or passenger,
some countries have made it a law to wear a
homologated helmet.

Attention

Check the laws applicable to your country.
Riding without a helmet may be punishable by a fine.

Attention

Failure to be wearing a helmet in case of
accident increases the chance of serious injury and
even death.

Attention

Make sure that the helmet is in compliance with
safety specifications, provides excellent visibility, is
the correct size for the head, and has the DOT
(Department of Transportation) label affixed to the
helmet surface. Laws regulating traffic vary from
country to country. Check the laws in force in your
country before riding the motorcycle and pay strict
adherence to them .

Attention

Tampering with Noise Control System
Prohibited. Federal Law prohibits the following acts
or causing thereof:

1) the removal or rendering inoperative by any
person, other than for purposes of maintenance,
repair, or replacement, of any device or element
of design incorporated into any new vehicle for
the purpose of noise control prior to its sale or
delivery to the ultimate purchaser or while it is in
use; or

2) the use of the vehicle after such device or
element of design has been removed or
rendered inoperative by any person.

Among the acts presumed to constitute tampering
are those listed below:

1) Removal of, or puncturing the muffler, baffles,
header pipes or any other component that
conducts exhaust gases.

2) Removal or puncturing of any part of the intake
system.

3) Lack of proper maintenance.

4) Replacing any moving part of the vehicle, or parts
of the exhaust or intake system, with parts other
than those specified by the manufacturer.

This product should be checked for repair or
replacement if the motorcycle noise has increased

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significantly through use. Otherwise, the owner may
become subject to penalties under state and local
ordinances.

Reporting of safety defects

If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which
could cause a crash or could cause injury or death,
you should immediately inform the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to
notifying Ducati North America, 10443 Bandley Drive
Cupertino, California, 95014, Tel: [phone],
Fax: [phone]. If NHTSA receives similar
complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it
finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles,
it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However,
NHTSA cannot become involved in individual
problems between you, your dealer, or Ducati North
America. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the
Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or
366-0123 in Washington, D.C. area) or write to:
NHTSA, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE W43-488,
Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other
information about motor vehicle safety from the
Hotline.

10

Rider's training

Accidents are frequently due to inexperience. Riding,
maneuvering and or braking are carried out differently
from other vehicles.

Attention

A rider's lack of preparation or an inappropriate
use of the vehicle may result in a loss of control, death
or serious damage.

Be sure you know the "RULES OF THE ROAD",
carefully read and familiarize with the contents of the
M.O.M. (Motorcycle Operator Manual) for
information on your State and which can be viewed
on the M.S.F. (Motorcycle Safety Foundation)
website (www.msf-usa.org).
You are strongly recommended to take a riding
course approved by the M.S.F. (Motorcycle Safety
Foundation).

Apparel

Clothing in the use of the motorcycle plays an
important role in safety, as the motorcycle provides
a person no protection from impact in the same way
as an automobile.

Suitable clothing includes: helmet, eye protection,
gloves, boots, long-sleeved jacket and long pants.

- The helmet must have the requisites as listed on
page 8, if the helmet model has no visor, use
suitable goggles;

- Gloves must have five fingers and be made of
leather or other abrasion-resistant material;

- Boots or shoes used for riding must have non-slip
soles and ankle protection;

- Jacket and pants, or even riding suits, must be
made of leather or abrasion-resistant material
and in a color with inserts that are very visible.

Important

In any case, avoid wearing loose or floppy
clothing that can become stuck in the motorcycle
parts.

Important

For your safety this type of clothing must be
used in both summer and winter.

11

Important

For the safety of the passenger, make sure that

he or she also wears appropriate clothing.

12

Safety “Best Practices”

Before, during and after use, remember to follow
some simple rules that are extremely important for
safety and for maintaining the motorcycle at top
efficiency.

Important

Closely follow the indications provided in
chapter "Riding the Motorcycle" during the running-in
period.
Failure to follow these instructions releases Ducati
Motor Holding S.p.A. from any liability whatsoever for
any engine damage or shorter engine life.

Attention

Failure to perform checks may cause damage to
the vehicle and serious injury to the rider and/or
passenger.

Attention

Start the engine when outdoors or in a well
ventilated place. Never start the engine in a closed
environment.
Exhaust gases are poisonous and may lead to loss of
consciousness or even death within a short time.
During the ride, assume a correct body position and
make sure the passenger does the same.

Attention

Do not ride the motorcycle unless you are well
familiarized with the controls to be used during the
ride.

Before starting the motorcycle, always performs the
checks detailed in this manual (see page 13).

Important

The rider should ALWAYS keep both hands on

the handlebar.

Important

Both rider and passenger should keep their feet

on the footpegs when the motorcycle is in motion.

13

Important

The pillion passenger should always hold on to
the grab handles on the frame under the seat with
both hands.

Important

Be very careful when maneuvering
intersections or when riding in areas near exits from
private grounds, parking lots or access roads to
highways.

Important

Be sure you are clearly visible and do not ride in
the blind spot of the vehicles ahead.

Important

Visually inspect the tires at regular intervals for
cracks and cuts, especially on sidewalls, bulges or
large spots which are indicative of internal damage.
Replace them if badly damaged.
Remove any stones or other foreign bodies caught in
the tread.

Attention

The engine, exhaust pipes and silencers remain
hot for a long time 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.).

Important

ALWAYS signal your intention to turn or pull
over to the next lane with due warning using the turn
indicators.

Important

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.

14

Attention

When you leave the motorcycle unattended,
always remove the ignition key and make sure it is
inaccessible to anyone unsuitable to ride the
motorcycle.

Refuelling

Refuel the motorcycle in an open area and with the
engine switched off.
Do not smoke or ever use flames during refueling.
Be careful never to drop fuel on the engine or exhaust
pipe.
When refueling, do not fill the tank completely: fuel
should never be touching the rim of filler recess.
When refueling, avoid inhaling fuel vapors and take
care that they do not come in contact with eyes, skin
or clothing.

Attention

The vehicle is compatible only with fuel having
a maximum content of ethanol of 10% (E10).
Using fuel with ethanol content over 10% is
prohibited. Using it could result in severe damage of
the engine and motorcycle components. Using fuel
with ethanol content over 10% will render the
Warranty null and void.

Attention

In case of malaise caused by prolonged
inhalation of fuel vapors, stay outdoors and consult a
physician. In case of contact with eyes, rinse eyes
thoroughly with water. In case of contact with skin,
wash the area immediately with soap and water.

Attention

Fuel is highly flammable. If it accidentally spills
onto clothes, change them.

15

Carrying the maximum load allowed

Your motorcycle is designed for long-distance riding
with the maximum load allowed carried in full safety.
Even weight distribution is critical to preserving these
safety features and avoiding difficulties when
performing sudden maneuvers or riding on bumpy
roads.

Attention

Do not exceed the total permitted weight for the
motorcycle and pay attention to the information
below regarding load capacity.

Information about carrying capacity

Important

Arrange your luggage or heavy accessories in
the lowest possible position and close to motorcycle
center.

Important

Never fix bulky or heavy objects to the steering
head or front mudguard, as this would affect stability
and be dangerous.

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Important

Be sure to secure the luggage to the supports
provided on the motorcycle as firmly as possible.
Improperly secured luggage may affect stability.

Important

Do not insert any objects you may need to carry
into the gaps of the frame, as these may interfere
with moving parts.

Attention

Make sure the tires are inflated to the proper
pressure and that they are in good condition.

Please, refer to paragraph "Tires" in page 150.

Dangerous products - warnings

Used engine oil

Attention

Prolonged or repeated contact with used engine
oil may cause skin cancer. If exposed to used engine
oil on a daily basis, make it a rule to wash your hands
thoroughly with soap immediately after use. Keep
away from children.

Brake lining debris
Never attempt to clean the brake assembly using
compressed air or a dry brush.

Brake fluid

Attention

Avoid spilling brake fluid onto plastic, rubber or
painted parts of the motorcycle to avoid the risk of
damage. Protect these parts with a clean shop rag
before servicing the motorcycle. Keep away from
children.

Attention

The brake fluid used in the brake system is
corrosive. In the event of accidental contact with eyes
or skin, wash the affected area with generous
quantities of running water.

Coolant
Engine coolant contains ethylene glycol, which may
ignite under particular conditions, producing invisible
flames. Although the flames from burning ethylene
glycol are not visible, they are still capable of causing
severe burns.

Attention

Take care not to spill engine coolant on the
exhaust system or engine parts. These parts may be
hot and ignite the coolant, which will subsequently
burn with invisible flames. Coolant (ethylene glycol)
is an irritant and is poisonous when ingested. Keep
away from children. Never remove the radiator cap
when the engine is hot. The coolant will be scalding
hot and is under high pressure.

17

The cooling fan operates automatically: keep hands
well clear and make sure your clothing does not get
caught in the fan.

Battery

Attention

The battery gives off explosive gases; keep it
away from any source of ignition such as sparks,
flames and cigarettes. Charge the battery in a well­ventilated area.

18

Vehicle identification number

Note

These numbers identify the motorcycle model
and should always be indicated when ordering spare
parts.

We recommend that you note the frame number of
your motorcycle in the space below.

Frame number

Fig. 1

19

Engine identification number

Note

These numbers identify the motorcycle model
and should always be indicated when ordering spare
parts.

We recommend that you note the engine number of
your motorcycle in the space below.

Frame number

20

Fig. 2

Nameplate position

1 2 3

4

5

6

7

Fig. 3

21

1

3 4

7

2

6

5

22

Fig. 4

8

10 Only Canada9

Fig. 5

23

8 9

10 (Only Canada)

Fig. 6

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Noise and exhaust emission control system information

Source of Emissions
The combustion process produces carbon monoxide
and hydrocarbons. Control of hydrocarbons is very
important because under certain conditions, they
react to form photochemical smog when subjected
to sunlight.
Carbon monoxide does not react in the same way,
but is toxic. Ducati utilizes lean carburetor settings
and other systems to reduce carbon monoxide and
hydrocarbons.

Exhaust Emission Control System
Exhaust Emission Control System is controlled by an
Electronic Control Unit (ECU), and no adjustments
should be made except idle speed adjustments with
the throttle stop screw. The Exhaust Emission
Control System is separate from the crankcase
emission control system.

Crankcase Emission Control System
The engine is equipped with a closed crankcase
system to prevent discharging crankcase emissions
into the atmosphere. Blow-by gas is returned to the

combustion chamber through the air cleaner and the
throttle body.

Evaporative Emission Control System
The motorcycles are equipped with an evaporative
emission control system which consists of a charcoal
canister and associated piping. This system prevents
the escape of fuel vapors from the engine and fuel
tank.

Problems that may affect motorcycle emissions
If you are aware of any of the following symptoms,
have the vehicle inspected and repaired by your local
Ducati dealer.
Symptoms:
Hard starting or stalling after starting.
Rough idle.
Misfiring or backfiring during acceleration.
After-burning (backfiring).
Poor performance (drivability) and poor economy.

California emission control warranty
statement
Your warranty rights and obligations

The California Air Resources Board is pleased to
explain the emission control system warranty on your
MY 2012 motorcycle. In California, new motor

25

vehicles must be designated, built and equipped to
meet the State's stringent anti-smog standards.
Ducati North America, Inc. must warrant the
emission control system on your motorcycle for the
periods of time listed below provided there has been
no abuse, neglect or improper maintenance of your
motorcycle.
Your emission control system may include parts such
as fuel-injection system, the ignition system, catalytic
converter, and engine computer. Also included may
be hoses, belts, connectors and other emission­related assemblies. Where a warrantable condition
exists, Ducati North America, Inc. will repair your
motorcycle at no cost to you including diagnosis,
parts and labor.

Manufacturer’s warranty coverage

Manufacturer’s warranty coverage

- 5 years or 18641 miles (30,000 kilometers),

whichever first occurs.

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Owner's warranty responsibilities:

- As the motorcycle owner, you are responsible for
the performance of the required maintenance
listed in your owner's manual. Ducati North
America, Inc. recommends that you retain all
receipts covering maintenance on your
motorcycle, but Ducati North America, Inc.
cannot deny warranty solely for the lack of
receipts or for your failure to ensure the
performance of all scheduled maintenance.

- You are responsible for presenting your
motorcycle to a Ducati dealer as soon as a
problem exists. The warranty repairs should be
completed in a reasonable amount of time, not
to exceed 30 days.

- As the motorcycle owner, you should also be
aware that Ducati North America, Inc. may deny
you warranty coverage if your motorcycle or a
part has failed due to abuse, neglect, improper
maintenance or unapproved modifications.

If you have any questions regarding your warranty
rights and responsibilities, you should contact Ducati
North America, Inc. at 001.408.253.0499 or the

California Air Resource Board at 9528 Telstar Avenue,
El Monte, CA 91731.

California evaporation emission system

Attention

In the event of a fuel system malfunction,

contact a Ducati Authorized Service Center.

Fig. 7

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Ducati limited warranty on emission control system

Ducati North America, Inc., 10443 Bandley Drive
Cupertino, California, 95014 warrants that each new
1998 and later Ducati motorcycle, that includes as
standard equipment a headlight, taillight and
stoplight, and is street legal:

A) is designed, built and equipped so as to conform
at the time of initial retail purchase with all applicable
regulations of the United States Environmental
Protection Agency, and the California Air Resources
Board; and
B) is free from defects in material and workmanship
which cause such motorcycle to fail to conform with
applicable regulations of the United States
Environmental Protection Agency or the California Air
Resources Board for a period of use of 18,641 miles
(30,000 kilometers) or 5 (five) years from the date of
initial retail delivery, whichever first occurs.

I. Coverage
Warranty defects shall be remedied during
customary business hours at any authorized Ducati
motorcycle dealer located within the United States of
America in compliance with the Clean Air Act and

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applicable regulations of the United States
Environmental Protection Agency and the California

Air Resources Board. Any part or parts replaced under
this warranty shall become the property of Ducati. In
the state of California only, emissions related
warranted parts are specifically defined by that
state’s Emissions Warranty Parts List. These
warranted parts are: carburetor and internal parts;
intake manifold; fuel tank, fuel injection system; spark
advance mechanism; crankcase breather; air cutoff
valves; fuel tank cap for evaporative emission
controlled vehicles; oil filler cap; pressure control
valve; fuel/vapor separator; canister; igniters; breaker
governors; ignition coils; ignition wires; ignition
points, condensers, and spark plugs if failure occurs
prior to the first scheduled replacement, and hoses,
clamps, fittings and tubing used directly in these
parts. Since emission related parts may vary from
model to model, certain models may not contain all
of these parts and certain models may contain
functionally equivalent parts. In the state of California
only, Emission Control System emergency repairs, as
provided for in the California Administrative Code,
may be performed by other than an authorized Ducati

dealer. An emergency situation occurs when an
authorized Ducati dealer is not reasonably available,
a part is not available within 30 days, or a repair is not
complete within 30 days. Any replacement part can
be used in an emergency repair. Ducati will reimburse
the owner for the expenses, including diagnosis, not
to exceed Ducati’s suggested retail price for all
warranted parts replaced and labor charges based on
Ducati’s recommended time allowance for the
warranty repair and the geographically appropriate
hourly labor rate. The owner may be required to keep
receipts and failed parts in order to receive
compensation.

II. Limitations
This Emission Control System Warranty shall not
cover any of the following:
A. Repair or replacement required as a result of
(1) accident,
(2) misuse,
(3) repairs improperly performed or replacements
improperly installed,
(4) use of replacement parts or accessories not
conforming to Ducati specifications which adversely
affect performance and/or

(5) use in competitive racing or related events.
B. Inspections, replacement of parts and other
services and adjustments required for routine
maintenance.
C. Any motorcycle on which odometer mileage has
been changed so that actual mileage cannot be
readily determined.

III. Limited liability
A. The liability of Ducati under this Emission Control
Systems Warranty is limited solely to the remedying
of defects in material or workmanship by an
authorized Ducati motorcycle dealer at its place of
business during customary business hours. This
warranty does not cover inconvenience or loss of use
of the motorcycle or transportation of the motorcycle
to or from the Ducati dealer. Ducati shall not be liable
for any other expenses, loss or damage, whether
direct, incidental, consequential or exemplary arising
in connection with the sale or use of or inability to use
the Ducati motorcycle for any purpose. Some states
do not allow the exclusion or limitation of any
incidental or consequential damages, so the above
limitations may not apply to you. B. No express
emission control system warranty is given by Ducati

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