Ducati ST3 S ABS

Further refined with each new edition, the Sport touring range achieves a perfect balance with the three-valve per cylinder engine, featuring a broad flat torque curve and low fuel consumption. Both models feature Euro 3 emission compliance, achieved by adopting an integrated ignition, injection and exhaust system, with a special 3-way catalytic converter and heated Lambda oxygen sensor.

The evolution of the injection and ignition system, combined with automatic idle speed control, are among the most recent milestones in a continuous process of updating a range of machines specifically designed for touring enthusiasts who seek comfort and protection from the elements without sacrificing performance muscle.

First unveiled in 1997, the Ducati ST has been constantly upgraded to provide improved sports touring. From handlebars height adjustable by 20mm to optional heights for the exhaust system, the ST pulls out all the stops to satisfy every rider. Silencers can be mounted in a low-slung position enabling the machine to be equipped with spacious panniers, or raised to increase clearance for those seeking extreme lean angles. There have also been many more minor features introduced, such as the simplified fitting system for bodywork which enable the reduction of maintenance costs.

ST3 S ABS
The ST3 S ABS represents the flagship of the Sport touring family. While it shares many features of the ST3, the ST3 S ABS goes much further in terms of chassis components. Although frame and engine are the same, the differences lie in the suspension and brakes, which are designed for higher performance and feature ABS. Fully adjustable upside-down Showa forks with TiN coated stanchions ensure sure-footed handling up front, while an Öhlins shock not only helps smooth the way at the rear, but also uses a remote preload adjuster to enable rapid changes to suit luggage load or road conditions. Ducati's ABS system is designed for riders who insist upon the same level of control in emergency braking conditions as that available in most cars.

The ST3 S ABS is equipped with five spoke wheels instead of the standard ST3 three spoke design. Further differences are evident in the technically more advanced suspension systems and the logo on the bodywork claiming its 's' and 'ABS' status.. Otherwise all features are shared by both versions, from the colour range to the height adjustable handlebars and multi-function instrument panel.

Chassis
Although performance is identical to the standard ST3, certain components have been enhanced to emphasise the sporting nature of this 's' version touring machine and to help it achieve thrilling performance levels. The Trellis frame uses suspension derived directly from competition oriented Ducati models. Front forks are by Showa with the stanchions TiN coated - a process normally reserved for competition machines designed to reduce sliding friction to the absolute minimum. The forks offer full adjustment facilities for compression and rebound which enables maximum personalisation for riders seeking the ideal suspension set-up for all types of riding conditions. Similarly, adjustments to the rear Öhlins shock, offers the possibility to adjust preload by means of a remote adjuster, easily operated without tools. Brake discs are the same as those of the ST3, with a pair of semi-floating 320mm for the front and a 245mm for the rear. Apart from the ABS system, a further detail that characterises the 's' version is the lightweight aluminium alloy front disc carriers which help keep rotating mass down to the absolute minimum and so enhance the sports orientated handling.

ABS system
The anti-lock brake system developed by Ducati features more advanced functions than most other motorcycle ABS systems on the market. The system responds immediately in the situation of 'wheel-lock' or 'skid' and reduces the risk of losing control while braking on treacherous road surfaces or under emergency braking conditions. The device manages information transmitted to the ABS control unit from the speed sensors on the brake discs, and data is constantly analysed by dedicated software that compares average road speed with the instant speed changes measured at each wheel. If the ratio between the two values falls below specific safety limits the control unit acts exclusively on the brake caliper receiving excessive brake pressure. The immediate pressure adjustment on just one of the brake circuits eliminates wheel lock-up before returning pressure to its previous value when the ratio of measurements returns to within the safety zone. With respect to the average motorcycle ABS, the Ducati system developed for the ST3 S offers far more sensitive control for the rider, with a 'feel' very close to that of a conventional braking system.

Engine
The engine remains unchanged for 2007 maintaining the excellent balance between performance, flexibility, and fuel consumption, characteristics that have distinguished the magnificent Desmo3 since it was first introduced.