2005 Ducati Motorcycles

DUCATI: MODEL YEAR 2005

Photos and text courtesy of Ducati.com S.r.l.

Ducati presents an entire lineup of new advances for 2005 that once again raises the art of motorcycle production to new heights.

With improved models like the redesigned Ducati 999 Superbike and new models like the Multistrada 620 and 1000S DS and the Monster S2R, Ducati continues to create bikes that matter, bikes that raise the pulse of enthusiasts everywhere. Discover where tradition meets state-of-the-art technology and timeless Italian style. Discover Ducati’s 2005 model range.

DUCATI MONSTER FAMILY
Great news for Monster fans! The Monster range for 2005 has doubled in size. The Monster S4R, a real naked superbike dedicated to the most demanding Ducati fans, will be joined by another just as mean, aggressive and exclusive Monster, the S2R.

The arrival of the S2R heralds the birth of the SR family of Monsters, an innovative re-interpretation of the original Monster concept. And the S2R is not the only news in the Monster world. Fans of this unique motorcycle will be delighted to learn of the many developments that have taken place both in the 620 and 1000 models. The Monster Cromo is back, the bike made for riders who never want to go unnoticed. Great to look at, more than original, in fact quite unique, the Cromo will be available in a limited edition destined to command unlimited interest.

Only one year after the launch of the S4R, the most powerful and exclusive Monster ever made, built using a large number of superbike components, a sister has appeared in the form of the S2R.

The idea behind the S2R remains that of an exclusive, high performance motorcycle capable of defining the very concept of a naked sport. Built around a less extreme engine, the S2R nevertheless shares the same uncompromising components as the S4R, and is equipped with everything you need for an amazingly exciting ride.

With the addition of the S2R, Ducati has created the SR family within the Monster range. Ducati's naked range, loved by tuners everywhere, has therefore expanded to offer more choices than ever before and to satisfy an even larger number of fans and enthusiasts of this great motorcycle. The SR Monsters at the top of the 2005 range are accompanied by other more classic models, continuing the evolutionary cycle begun over ten years ago.

The 2005 range includes Ducati's most advanced 620 and 1000 cc power units. Both the 1000 and the 620 ranges are made up of three models each. The 620 range in particular now includes the Dark Monodisco model that carries the lowest price tag of all Monsters.

Ducati S2R Dark

MONSTER S2R, S2R DARK
The tremendous success that the S4R has demonstrated the need for a new family of more sports oriented nakeds, stylistically and technologically advanced Monsters capable of delivering competition level performance.

This is the ethos of the new Monster S2R, less extreme in terms of power but just as able to deliver all the excitement and fascination of its bigger sister. The engine selected for the entry level to this new family of Monsters is Ducati's air-cooled twin valve 803 cc twin.

The colour schemes of this new Monster are highly recognisable and mirror the eye-catching graphics of the S4R. The S2R is available in 5 new colours: black, black with tangerine red stripe, acid yellow with black stripe, Ducati red with white stripe and tangerine red with black stripe.

MONSTER 620 (620 Dark single disc, 620 Dark, 620)
The lightweight Monsters are available in three different models, each with its own price tag to satisfy all pockets. The version with the lowest price of all is the Monster 620 Dark single disc, finished exclusively in matt black like all Dark models. In terms of components the single disc is the closest of the new models to the original Monster.

One step up from the single disc is the 620 Dark. Then comes the most classical of all, the Monster 620, in a choice of three colours. All 2005 620's are equipped with the APTC clutch that proved such a success when it was introduced a year ago. All 620 Monsters therefore now benefit from smoother clutch action plus an anti-skid “slipper” device. Novices will immediately feel the benefit of this exclusive new clutch because the bike has become much easier to ride, and more expert riders will gain from the fact that it is also ideal for sports riding.

Ducati Monster 1000

Ducati Multistrada 620

Ducati Multistrada 620 Dark

Ducati Multistrada

MONSTER 1000 (1000 DS, 1000S DS, 1000 Cromo)
The same engine has been chosen to power three significantly different models.

Ducati's brand new 1000 cc twin spark engine has been incorporated in three quite different Monsters, one mean, essential naked, one for the refined rider who demands perfection in every detail, and a third, uniquely styled model with a shiny chrome tank.

DUCATI MULTISTRADA
With the Multistrada, Ducati invented a whole new motorcycling concept, that of a machine capable of tackling all types of road and performing superbly on them all, a highly personal motorcycle able to combine touring comfort and sports performance.

The Multistrada burst on to the motorcycling scene and in some ways redefined versatility and performance, and offered a true alternative to traditional motorcycles. Now, with the arrival of its 2005 models, Ducati provides more alternatives.

The Multistrada family has expanded in two directions, with even higher performance in the form of the new 1000 S DS with a more sophisticated chassis to satisfy the most demanding riders and to a wider audience with the introduction of two new entry level models.

The real news for 2005 is the arrival of the Multistrada and Multistrada Dark, with nothing in their names to identify the engine size but actually powered by the latest 620 cc engines.

The Multistrada is designed for fun on all types of road, and adapts with perfect versatility to smooth asphalt surfaces, rough mountain twisties and city centre cobblestones.

Its winning characteristics include light weight and fantastic agility on the one hand and the sort of stability normally only found in thoroughbred racers on the other, the latter being indispensable if a bike is to be used on high speed roads in total safety.

The Multistrada concept is a previously unattempted combination of two completely different types of motorcycle, the enduro and the sports.

The revolutionary Ducati Multistrada incorporates the key characteristics of both, the comfort and versatility of the enduro plus the precision frame and engine power of the sports, combined the way only Ducati knows how.

In just over one year of life the Multistrada has conquered an enviable slice of the market and the experience gained has enabled Ducati to make the bike even better still.

That is why the 2005 Multistrada range has redesigned seats, better shaped and more comfortable for the rider and with a new anti-slide system for the passenger.

The cockpit fairing now boasts a taller, more protective screen and the rear view mirrors have been moved outwards by 40 millimetres for improved active visibility. There is also a new side stand for more stable parking.

All Multistrada models in Ducati’s 2005 catalogue have a long list of options to enhance their touring or sports vocations. Owners can fit dedicated panniers, a rear luggage rack, a GPS navigator, a racing exhaust system and many more enhancements.

MULTISTRADA AND MULTISTRADA DARK
The Multistrada and Multistrada Dark share the same 620 cc engine and a number of dedicated components that set them aside from the 1000’s, but still maintain the same personality and versatility of the Multistrada concept.

The Multistrada and Multistrada Dark are the perfect machines for riders who demand the versatility of these unique motorcycles that is even easier to ride than its 1000cc counterparts.

MULTISTRADA 1000 DS
The 1000 DS is the evolution of the bike that revolutionized motorcycling by introducing a whole new type of machine in 2004. All the qualities that riders have so appreciated are still there while the 2005 models have also improved on a number of points as suggested by owners of the first series.

MULTISTRADA 1000 S DS
Ducati has developed an even more advanced machine on the basis of the 1000 DS, made to measure for riders who appreciate the Multistrada mainly for its sports abilities. The difference between the 1000 DS and 1000 S DS lies in the special equipment of the latter, like its special handlebars, multi-adjustment Öhlins suspensions, and carbon fibre body parts, taken directly from the Superbike world.

Ducati 999

DUCATI SUPERBIKE
Two years after the “red-volution”, all the models in Ducati’s Superbike family, in both engine sizes, have been dramatically improved. Updates have involved not just restyling but a series of major improvements to chassis and engine aimed at bringing the 749 and 999 closer still to Ducati’s ultimate sports motorcycle concept, making them meaner, faster and more competitive than ever.

But even though Ducati's SBK range now looks almost identical to the bikes that dominate the world's championships, they are still just as comfortable as ever. Because comfort is not just something you need on long road rides. Comfort is also essential if you want to maintain high speeds for any length of time on the track.

And stylistic improvements are only part of the story. Performance has got substantially better too. The basic 999 is more powerful, the 999 S more exclusive than ever, and the 999R now delivers an incredible 150 HP. Supersport motorcycles, from which Supersport and Superbike machines are derived, represent a segment of the market that has exploded in recent years. Supersports have now reached a level of performance totally unimaginable only a few years ago.

That is why, just two years from the launch of the 999, Ducati's most high-tech twins, the Superbike family has been completely renewed. All 999's and 749's (the basic models, the S and the R), have been substantially improved The objective is clear, to confirm Ducati's supremacy in terms of racing and street performance, and to bring the specifications of these latest models closer to the bikes ridden by the official Ducati racing team.

The inspiration behind these changes is Ducati's return to AMA racing, the North American Superbike Championship that sets far stricter limits on modifications than the World Superbike Championship. Involvement in the AMA championship has inspired Ducati's engineering team at Borgo Panigale to develop a new range of bikes capable of performing as excellent racing mounts in every model and engine size.

Ducati's 2005 Superbike models are dramatically better as a result, starting with their looks. Fairings have been redesigned in size, level of protection and volume, and the new fairing is radically different in appearance.

All 999's and 749's now feature a higher and wider cockpit fairing with a higher screen but without the two upper side air ducts. This provides a far higher level of protection and is more aerodynamic than its predecessor at high speeds. The air ducts on the previous cockpit fairing were extreme styling solutions adopted to deviate the air flow away from the rider's body.

The cockpit fairing and screen on the latest bikes protect the rider's head and shoulders and prevent annoying vortices from forming at high speed. The new cockpit fairing is the most evident stylistic change but far from the only one. The new streamlined lower fairings with their more protective spoilers, like those previously used only on the exclusive and sophisticated R models, are other eye-catching innovations. Other developments, derived from Ducati's last two highly successful racing seasons, include the new box section swing arm designed to reduce weight and increase torsional strength. This race-developed swing arm is a major contributor to the great appearance of Ducati's 2005 Superbikes, and makes them look more than ever like the factory racing machines.

Then there is the rear of the bike. This is still characterized by an under-the-tail exhaust system, but for 2005 a protective heat shield in black anodized aluminum has been added. These modifications have made the already incredible lines and performance of the 999 and 749 better than ever. The new bikes provide a range of opportunities for personalizing ergonomics and setup that goes well beyond conventional suspension adjustments.

The latest Superbikes allow owners to adjust footrest and handlebar lever position and steering head angle (something no other bike of this type offers). On the single seat versions, even the fore and aft position of the seat-tank assembly can be adjusted. As you can imagine, these adjustments allow you to set your bike up just as you want it for any type of road, track or riding style. Ducati therefore has no qualms about stating categorically that the 999 and the 749 are the most race-oriented production bikes on the market. But don't assume that sports performance means low levels of comfort.

Over the last two years Ducati has shown that rider comfort is just as important for sports bikes as it is for road going machines. Good wind protection and ergonomics help you explore the limits of your motorcycle and above all else enable you to maintain at-the-limit speeds for extended periods without fatigue. Major improvements have also been made to the engines of Ducati's 2005 Superbike range.

Ducati 749

Ducati 749 Dark

While the 749 models have kept all the updates made early in 2004, the 999's have seen a real engine revolution. The basic 999 has received a tremendous injection of power with the adoption of the twin cylinder engine previously reserved for the S model. The S itself has maintained a power margin of 3 HP thanks to more sophisticated internal components and can deliver even more power still with the addition of the racing kit supplied with the bike.

The R, the model specifically designed for track racing, holds an even bigger surprise. In addition to its absolutely top of the range components and technology, the R now boasts the most powerful Testastretta engine of all production bikes with an incredible 150 HP. These increases in power have not diminished the 999 and 749's respect for the environment.

All Ducati's Superbikes, even the race-oriented R, still comply with rigorous Euro2 emission control standards. These incredible results have been achieved by using the latest, most advanced technical solutions, including highly sophisticated electronics.

In fact, their advanced electronics remains one of the strong point of Ducati's Superbikes, which were the first motorcycles ever to use CAN line engine management technology. CAN line technology use only two wires to manage all main and accessory functions has led to a dramatic reduction in weight, and has enabled the use of multi-functional instruments capable of providing riders with a great deal of essential information.

749
Identical in looks to the rest of the 749 models, for many riders the basic 749 provides easy access to the wonderful world of Ducati Superbikes. The new 749 boasts impressive performance for both the track and road use. The Dark model offers an even better price to performance ratio.

749S
More powerful than the basic 749, the S also stands out for top level chassis components that turn it into a race-ready machine capable of excellent lap times from the word go.

749R
This uncompromising sports machine is only available in the single seat version and is the perfect bike for all those who want to own a real middleweight racer. The Testastretta engine is more highly developed than ever before to maximize performance and minimize weight.

Chassis components have obviously been selected for maximum competitiveness on the track, and special materials like magnesium, carbon fibre, and titanium abound to make the 749R unbeatably light and mean.

Ducati 999

Ducati 999S

Ducati 999R

999
Two years ago the 999 was the production bike from which Ducati's winning Superbike adventure began. Now, everything that has been learned from competition has been implemented on the production models.

Like the S and R versions, even the basic 999 has been updated in looks and technology, making it meaner than ever on the track, while maintaining its ability to make newcomers to competitive riding feel perfectly confident. The 999 has been given a major increase in power.

The S is equipped with the best sports chassis available, but is nevertheless homologated for normal road use. This splendid style icon is also a sophisticated track racer, capable of satisfying even the most demanding sports rider.

999R
With the arrival of the 2005 model, the differences between the 999R and Ducati's competition bikes have almost disappeared.

The R features the latest, most advanced Testastretta engine, radically redesigned from the cases up. The result is an engine that delivers 150 HP, the most power of any Ducati production engine and a safe bet for anybody who wants a bike that leaves the competition standing.

DUCATI SPORT-TOURING
2004 was a year of major change for the ST family, and riders have certainly not failed to appreciate the many major stylistic and functional improvements, including the ST3’s exclusive new three valve head engine.

Now, with the arrival of the 2005 models, the ST family has gotten better still. Various innovations have been introduced, all aimed at perfecting Ducati’s offer in this important market segment.

Maintenance is now even simpler and a new oil-bath clutch makes gear changing smoother, more efficient and easier on the hand. Clutch life is also extended, making Ducati’s Sport Touring machines more enjoyable and more functional than ever on long journeys. Renewal of the ST family began twelve months ago. Major development work was needed to meet the needs of an attentive and demanding public if success was to be ensured in this crowded market segment.

That was why the new ST range was introduced, characterized by eye-catching looks and enhanced rider protection to guarantee comfort on long journeys, even at the sort of speeds these powerful Ducati twins are capable of. New styling and improved ergonomics for the whole family were further backed up by the introduction of a completely new motorcycle, built around a brand new engine.

With the three valve, twin spark 992, the new ST3 was bound to please for its ability to deliver competitive performance combined with magre fuel consumption. This revolution in the world of Ducati sport tourers met with the unanimous approval of riders who know how to appreciate touring motorcycles with great sports performance, in line with Ducati tradition.

Development did not stop there. Many other details have since been perfected on the basis of suggestions by riders who had clocked up high mileage on STs. This is why the fairing fasteners have been improved on 2005 model for example. Though the change may go unnoticed, it sensibly reduces the time needed for scheduled maintenance like checking and topping up oil and battery service.

This is a blessing not only for Ducati mechanics but also for the large number of riders who service their own machines before setting off on a journey. Another modification that has made a major contribution to reliability and comfort is the new oil bath clutch introduced on all models of the ST family.

The new clutch has reduced clutch noise, made clutch lever action easier and smoother, and made shifting gears more precise than ever. The new clutch incorporates new dampers to extend transmission life and demonstrates exceptional wear resistance. Under normal conditions, clutch life could easily last for hundreds of thousands of kilometres, far longer than the average life of most bikes.

These improvements, introduced with the first 2005 models, successfully complete a renewal process that has already led to the adoption of a new complex double beam headlight, with lighting power at the top of its class. The new headlight cluster features electric beam height adjustment from an easy to operate control on the instrument panel, permitting ideal beam angle to be achieved under all load conditions. Remote headlight adjustment is just one of the many functions provided by the modern electronic instrument panel on which just two buttons give access to a whole range of information.

Merit goes to the ST3 and ST4S’ sophisticated electronics based on CAN technology, with a wiring loom consisting of just two wires. Ducati Sport Touring motorcycles also lead the field in ergonomics, thanks to front brake and clutch levers that can be adjusted to four positions and half-bars that provide 20 mm of height adjustment to adapt to riders of all statures.

To prove how Ducati ST motorcycles really have combined the previously incompatible vocations of tourer and sports bike, ST exhausts are variable in height. A simple operation lets you change the angle of the exhaust terminals. In raised position, they let you achieve angles of lean worthy of any racing circuit. Lowered, they facilitate installation of Ducati’s dedicated touring panniers.

ST3
When it was introduced as the entry machine to the Sport Touring range, the ST3 received immediate acclaim as a bike that delivers what it promises. Its new triple valves engine is smooth, powerful and economical, too. Though designed to provide relaxed long distance touring, the ST3 is also capable of pretty impressive sports performance.

ST4s
The ST4s provides an amazing mix of characteristics. Its 4 valve engine, designed for relaxed touring on long journeys even at full load and constant high speed, is complemented by a frame derived directly from the Superbike series. Handling is made even better by fully adjustable suspension and a riding position that guarantees comfort and control for riders and passengers of all heights. When it comes to fast touring and total control, the ST4s knows no rivals.

ST4s ABS
The ST4s ABS has exactly the same incredible stability and handling in the bends as the ST4s, but with an even greater safety margin guaranteed by Ducati’s own sophisticated ABS system. ABS plus brakes worthy of any racing machine means increased confidence in using the bike’s fantastic engine power, and handling to the fullest.

DUCATI SUPERSPORT
The Supersport remains a reference point in the world of Ducati dedicated to motorcyclists who seek the thrills of sports riding from a truly thoroughbred, agile machine. The Supersport’s strong links with the past have certainly not held back its development. Over the years the bike has become a perfect synthesis in design, combining the looks and riding style of yesteryear with the most modern, flexible two valve engine in the entire Ducati range.

The Ducati Supersport represents the essential link between the unbeatable superbikes of today and the V-twins that dominated the racing scene in the nineteen seventies. Though the Supersport remains faithful to tradition in looks, it has nevertheless evolved constantly to fully satisfy the many motorcyclists who want more from a sports bike than just speed.

Supersport riders understand how much pleasure can be derived from riding a super-agile motorcycle with an engine that exudes character and a reliable and effective chassis. The 1000 DS, the only Supersport model for 2005, is the definitive synthesis of a family of bikes that have given riders tremendous satisfaction in the past, and are still admired today by those who cannot resist the fascination of a traditional Ducati.

The 1000 DS combines unashamedly classical lines with an advanced high-tech, air cooled, twin cylinder engine, in a clear contrast that has tremendous appeal for the fans of ‘Italian style’ riding. The bike also has all the essential qualities of a thoroughbred sports motorcycle thanks to an engine that guarantees silky smooth power and enviable control with bags of torque right across the speed range. And flexibility and power are not just perfect engine characteristics; they also complement the exceptional handling delivered by the chassis.

Despite its essential appearance the 1000 DS’ frame is technically sophisticated enough to guarantee a level of rigidity that few other solutions can equal. With all this plus beautifully simple mechanics and easy maintenance, what more could you want? The 2005 Supersport 1000 DS will only be available fully faired.

The braking system is all Brembo Serie Oro, and comprises two 320 millimetre disks at the front and a single 245 millimetre disk at the rear. This top of the range combination delivers plenty of braking power with perfect “feel” under all riding conditions. The system also features steel braided brake hoses that resist deformation under use and ensure far more instant braking response than the conventional rubber hoses used on other motorcycles. Standard equipment also includes a totally electronic lightweight instrument panel and engine immobilizer.

SUPERSPORT 1000 DS
The 1000 DS is the bike that maintains contact between the past and the future of Ducati motorcycling. Styled like and inspired by the machines of the seventies, it nevertheless boasts the same brand new DS twin spark engine as the Multistrada. The Supersport 1000 DS delivers all the sensations of an uncompromising sports machine with character to spare. Thanks to its first class chassis, the 1000 DS is the ideal motorcycle for riders who look for maximum fun and satisfaction from all types of road.

DUCATI SPORTCLASSIC
On the heels of the remarkable public and media success that followed the presentation of the new SportClassic family of bikes at the Tokyo Motorshow, last October 2003, further acclaim arrived from all over the world in the next months. In January 2004, the factory decided to produce the bikes, creating a new product of motorcycles in the Ducati line-up.

Due to overwhelming requests, Ducatisti were able to reserve a SportClassic of their choice from March to July. Incredibly, the first year of production of the Paul Smart has ‘sold-out’. The first bike to roll off the production lines will be the limited edition Paul Smart 1000, which will be in the showrooms from November 2005. This machine was inspired by the legendary “750 Imola Racer” with which Paul Smart won the historic Imola race in 1972.

This initial limited edition series features top level components, including Öhlins rear shock absorber and front forks. Subsequently the "Sport 1000" will enter production starting from March 2006; handsome, original, fascinating, and keenly aggressive, this bike has all it takes to become a cult icon and trendsetter. A muscular Café Racer style distinguished by the unmistakeable Ducati bright yellow colours, timeless beauty coupled with all the performance that true enthusiasts have come to expect. And just six months later customers will be able to purchase the GT 1000, scheduled to enter production in September 2006. The new GT 1000 is the perfect expression of a long tradition of stylistic elegance and top-level components, with the ease of handling associated with modern machines.

APPAREL
With the new collection, the Ducati look for men take a big step towards outright fashion. Without loosing sight of its identity and the history that elevated the Ducati marque to its legendary status, the apparel in the new 2005 collection is flavored with 1970s styles, historic logos, and colors and treatments used to age the materials.

Thanks to these additions, the collection has attained a good degree of crossover where Ducatisti and admirers of the Ducati marque can find the article of clothing that best suits their taste. This year, as in the past, the new collection has been designed in collaboration with Drudi, a designer of renown in the world of motorcycling, who has fashioned exclusive garments, thanks to his intimate knowledge of motorcyclists and riders.

The 2005 collection, in addition to expanding the "Old Style" line, which used the Ducati Meccanica logo, includes a 1970's line of articles that have in common the use of marques that carved the history of Ducati. This further design innovation stems from a desire to offer fashion forward styles that can be adapted to any need, on the seat of the bike or for leisure time. The apparel, men's and women's leather jackets, fabric jackets and sportswear, stand out for their high-tech features and trendy lines that make them perfect for any fashion need, and for their appeal to enthusiasts who wants to "dress Ducati" any time of the day.

The '05 collection has also been added with a set of apparel that complements the existing lines. Among the new offerings is the new line of leather and fabric jackets noted for the attention to the look and to the technical features. All articles of the Ducati collection will be distributed from the autumn in the best dealerships and Ducati stores.