Ducati SBK 848Evo USA MY13 2012 Owner's manual

This manual is an integral part of the motorcycle and must remain with it for its entire life.
The manual must accompany the motorcycle if it is sold or transferred to a new owner.
Please store this manual in a safe a place. In case of damage or loss, request a new copy by contacting:

Ducati North America, Inc.
10443 Bandley Drive
Cupertino, California, 95014
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Web site: www.ducatiusa.com

Quality and safety standards of Ducati motorcycles are constantly being updated consequent to the
development of new design solutions, equipment and accessories. Although the manual includes fully
updated information at the time of print, Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. therefore reserves the right to make
changes without prior notification or without incurring obligations. For this reason, you may note
discrepancies when comparing some illustrations with your motorcycle.

Any and all reproduction or dissemination of the contents in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. All rights
are reserved by Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A. Requests for authorizations shall be made in writing to this
company with specification of the reason.

Owner's Manual

US/CANADA

1

Introduction

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.

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..

2

In your own interest, for your safety and in order to
guarantee product reliability, we strongly
recommend that you go to an Authorized Dealer or
Service Center for any servicing included on the
scheduled maintenance chart (see page 124)

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
Booklet.

The Warranty does not extend to motorcycles used
in competitions or competitive trials.

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.

Table of contents

Introduction 2

Safety guidelines 6
Warning symbols used in the manual. 6
Permitted use 7
Rider's obligation 7
Reporting safety defects 9
Rider education 10
Clothing 10
“Best Practices” for safety 11
Refueling 13
Carrying the maximum load allowed 15
Dangerous products - warnings 16
Vehicle ID number 18
Engine ID number 19
Plate positioning 20
Noise and exhaust emission control system
information
California emission control warranty statement Your
warranty rights and obligations
Manufacturer’s warranty coverage 27
Owner's warranty responsibilities: 27
California evaporation emission system 28
Ducati limited warranty on emission control
system

26

27

28

Instrument Panel (Dashboard) 31

Dashboard 31
LCD unit functions 33
LCD – How to set/display parameters 35
Total distance covered indicator: “Odometer“ 37
Air temperature indicator 38
Vehicle speed indication 39
Engine coolant temperature indicator 40
Partial trip meter “TRIP A” 41
Partial trip meter “TRIP B“ 42
Distance traveled on fuel reserve: “TRIP FUEL“ 43
Maintenance indicator (SERV) 44
Battery voltage indicator (BATT). 45
Engine idle RPM setting (RPM) 46
LAP timer 47
Stored data display (LAP Memory) 49
DDA data acquisition 51
Erase DDA 52
Clock setting function 53
Dashboard diagnosis 55
Instrument panel backlighting 61
Headlight “smart” auto-off 61
Headlight “smart” switch-on 61
The Immobilizer system 63
Keys 63
Code card 64
Immobilizer override procedure 65
Operation 67

3

Duplicate keys
Service menu - unit of measurement (UNIT SET) 68

67

Controls 70

Position of motorcycle controls 70
Key-operated ignition switch and steering lock 71
LH switch 72
Clutch lever 73
RH switch 74
Throttle twistgrip 74
Front brake lever 75
Rear brake pedal 76
Gear change pedal 76
Setting the gear change and rear brake pedals 77

Main components and devices 79

Position on the vehicle 79
Fuel tank plug 80
Seat lock 81
Side stand 82
Steering damper 83
Front fork adjusters 84
Rear shock absorber adjusters 86

4

Riding the motorcycle 88

Break-in recommendations 88
Pre-ride checks 90
Starting the engine 91
Moving off 93
Braking 93
Stopping the motorcycle 95
Parking 95
Refueling 96
Tool kit and accessories 97

Main maintenance operations 98

Removing the fairing 98
Changing the air filter 102
Checking and topping up coolant level 103
Checking brake and clutch fluid level 104
Checking brake pads for wear 106
Lubricating cables and joints 107
Adjusting throttle control free play 108
Charging the battery 109
Checking drive chain tension 110
Chain lubrication 111
Replacing the high and low beam bulbs 112
Replacing the parking light bulb 114
Rear turn indicators 115
Number plate light 115
Beam setting 116

Rear view mirror adjustment
Tubeless tires 118
Checking engine oil level 120
Cleaning and replacing the spark plugs 121
Cleaning the motorcycle 122
Storing the motorcycle 123
Important notes 123

117

Maintenance 124

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

124

127

Technical data 128

Overall dimensions (mm) 128
Weights 128
Engine 130
Timing system 130
Performance data 131
Spark plugs 131
Fuel system 131
Brakes 132
Transmission 133
Frame 134
Wheels 134
Tires 134

Suspensions 135
Exhaust system 136
Available colors 136
Electrical system 136

Routine maintenance record 142

5

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.

6

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.

Warning

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

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.

Permitted 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.

Warning

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

Warning

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

Warning

The total weight of the motorcycle in running
order with rider, passenger, baggage and additional
accessories must not exceed 882 lb (400kg).

Rider's obligation

All riders must hold a driver's license.

Warning

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.

Warning

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.

Warning

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.

7

Some countries require mandatory insurance
coverage.

Warning

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.

Warning

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

Warning

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

Warning

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.

8

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 .

Warning

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

Reporting safety defects

If you believe your vehicle has a defect that could
cause a crash or 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.

9

Rider education

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

Warning

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).

10

Clothing

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.

Important

For the safety of the passenger, make sure that

he or she also wears appropriate clothing.

“Best Practices” for safety

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

During the break-in period, carefully observe the
instructions contained on page 88. Failure to follow
these instructions releases Ducati Motor Holding
S.p.A. from any liability whatsoever for any engine
damage or shorter engine life.

Warning

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 90).

Warning

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

11

Warning

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.

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.

Important

The passenger should always hold on to the
strap on passenger seat with both hands.

12

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

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.

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.

Warning

The engine, exhaust pipes and mufflers stay hot
for a long time after the engine has been turned off.
Be especially careful not to touch the exhaust system
with any part of the body and never park the
motorcycle near flammable materials (wood, leaves,
etc.).

Warning

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

Refueling

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.

13

Warning

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.

Warning

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.

Warning

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

14

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.

Warning

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.

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.

Warning

Make sure tires are inflated to the correct
pressure indicated at page 118 and that they are in
good condition.

15

Dangerous products - warnings

Brake fluid

Used engine oil

Warning

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.

16

Warning

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.

Warning

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.

Warning

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.

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

Battery

Warning

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.

17

Vehicle ID number

DUCATI

TYPE OF
MOTORCYCLE

MODEL
YEAR

PLANT OF
MANU FACTURE

SEQUENTIAL
NUMBER

{

{

{

Varies-can be Ø thru 9 or X (Check digit)

ZDM 1 X B M V X B 0 0 0 0 0 0

fig. 1

fig. 2

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

18

Engine ID number

XBG ? *000000*

ENGINE
TYPE

MODEL
YEAR

SEQUENTIAL
NUMBER

fig. 3

fig. 4

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.

Engine number

19

Plate positioning

1

3

2

3

Canada only

fig. 5

20

31

1.2 ÷ 1.3 in

÷ 33 mm

1

2

3

3

(Canada Only)

fig. 6

21

4

5

6

fig. 7

22

6

5

4

fig. 8

23

7

8

fig. 9

24

7

8

fig. 10

25

Noise and exhaust emission control system information

combustion chamber through the air cleaner and the
throttle body.

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

26

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 2013 motorcycle. In California, new motor
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

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

whichever first occurs.

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.

27

California evaporation emission system

1 5

3

6

2

4

CANISTER

fig. 11

This system consists of (fig. C):

1) Warn air inlet;

2) Canister;

3) Dell’Orto jet;

4) Fuel tank;

5) Breather pipe;

6) Intake manifolds.

Important

In the event of a fuel system malfunction,

contact a Ducati Authorized Service Center.

28

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 30,000
kilometers (18,641 miles) 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
applicable regulations of the United States
Environmental Protection Agency and the California