|
Make Model |
Ducat ST4 |
|
Year |
1997-98 |
|
Engine |
Liquid
cooled, four stroke, 90°“L”twin cylinder, DOHC, desmodromic 4 valve per
cylinder. |
|
Capacity |
916 |
|
Bore x Stroke |
94 x 66 mm |
|
Compression Ratio |
11.0:1 |
|
Induction |
Marelli electronic fuel injection, 50mm
throttle body |
|
Ignition /
Starting |
- / electric |
|
Max Power |
105 hp 77 kW @ 9000 rpm |
|
Max Torque |
89 Nm 9 Kg-m @ 7500 rpm |
|
Transmission /
Drive |
6 Speed / chain |
|
Front Suspension |
Showa 43mm upside-down fully adjustable fork.
130mm front wheal travel |
|
Rear Suspension |
Progressive linkage with fully adjustable
Sachs monoshock with piggy back aluminum swing arm. 148mm rear wheal travel |
|
Front Brakes |
2x 320mm discs 4 piston calipers |
|
Rear Brakes |
Single 245mm disc 2 piston caliper |
|
Front Tyre |
120/70 ZR17 |
|
Rear Tyre |
180/55 ZR17 |
|
Seat Height |
820 mm / 32. 3in- |
|
Dry-Weight |
214.5 kg / 474 lb |
|
Fuel Capacity |
21 Litres |
|
Consumption average |
19.8 km/lit |
|
Standing
¼ Mile |
11.3 sec / 124 mp/h |
|
Top Speed |
156 mp/h |
|
Overview |
Motorcycle.com |
Ducati had launched its first
sports touring machine, the ST2, in 1996, and although it was a success in
many markets, it was also criticized for its lack of top-end power. So for
1998, Ducati expanded its sports touring range with a new ST4, while keeping
the ST2 in production as a cheaper option.
The ST4 was basically an ST2
chassis and bodywork with a 916cc eight-valve desmodromic engine fitted.
That engine installation was straightforward, although the front cylinder
head was modified from the standard 916 Biposto design in order to fit the
motor into the ST2 frame. The exhaust camshaft was moved down in the head by
10mm (0.3in), allowing the larger engine to fit.
The same steel-tube trellis
frame, Showa upside-down front forks and Showa rear shock as the ST2 give
the ST4 firm handling, although the more powerful engine places heavier
stresses upon it.
For 2000, the ST4 was modified
with several uprated parts. A wider rear wheel took a larger 180-section
tyre, and the brakes and dash were uprated over the ST2 parts. A new
sidestand design replaced the previous flip-up design and there were some
detail engine changes, mostly to improve reliability.
On the road, the ST4 makes a
capable sports tourer, although it is not as effective as Honda's VFR800.
The engine is very strong, allowing all-day high-speed cruising,
and the 21-litre (4.6 gal) fuel
tank gives a decent 320km (200 mile) range. Sporty handling makes short work
of twisty back roads, while the strong Brembo brakes and sharp steering are
even useful on the track.
Living with a Ducati ST4 is very
easy - the dash has a comprehensive set of instruments, including an LCD
screen with a clock and fuel gauge. The fairing provides decent weather
protection, and the optional factory hard luggage fit well. The exhausts can
also be moved up when the panniers are removed, increasing ground clearance.
