Ducati ST3S ABS : Sleeper of The Pack

You must have awfully short legs! I’m just 5’9″ with a 30″ inseam and I can just about flatfoot both legs on my ST4S with the ride height set at stock and 5mm of preload in the back (155# rider weight).

Perhaps I do have short legs, lol!… Strikes me that it’s also possible that my reaction to the height of the bike might be due to the amount of riding I’ve done on the 999. Getting off that bike and climbing aboard the ST is a night and day experience.

Thanks for that great review. I’ve been shopping the STS for a few days trying to figure out if I would miss the trade in HP from my current bike. It sounds like the gain would be in versatility. One question I have is what kind of fuel mileage where you averaging? Calculated or displayed? My wife is getting 50+ on her FJR commuting and I wonder if this would have the range to ride with her.

Excellent review and I’m as impressed with the ST3s as you are. I have extensively ridden the ST4s and have to say that the ST3 is (dare I say) a more refined and better all-around motorcycle. I too am vertically challenged with a 29″ inseam at 5’8″ and I’m no where flat-footed on the ST3. Even still, this is a bike that quickly makes me overlook this inconvenience as have many other motorcycles I’ve owned in the past (nothing is more challenging than my KTM 52s0SX). The ST3s is truely a superb sports tourer and in my opinion, better than the Honda Interceptor. Way more sport than tour when compared to the grossly overweight ST1300 & FJR1300(they should call these toursports bikes) and I’ll bet it handles better than the new K1200GT. Factor in the Ducati persona and what you have is the best sleeper bike around. Unfortunately, like ast Ducati ST’s, they probably won’t sell them in huge numbers and that my friend will keep the price down and the rarity factor high. Great review and a great bike.

Sachs shock????! Better have that eyeglass prescription checked. My ST3S has something gold and Swedish suspending the rear end.

:lol: After a lot of research on what bike to buy for the type of riding i do ,i decided to get a 2005 st3 , i have being riding it for 1 1/2 years and love it ,i compare it to my honda vtr ,and it”s like cadillac vs chev. impala ,don”t get me wrong the vtr is a great bike but the duck is way better,confort ,transmission,brakes,fuel injection,ecc.So the vtr is used for around town wek days,and thest3 for weekends trips,this way i get the best of both worlds!!!!

Nice catch Tom… All that proofreading appears pretty futile right about now…

Fun read, the ST3s ABS in its current set-up looks like it will replace my ’03 ST4s ABS when I get to 100,000 mi in 3 years (yah, I’m shopping early, but who doesn’t start thinking about the next bike before the new smell wears off the current one?). The ST4s has been a fantastic mount for the touring that I do, and the reliability in 35,000 mi has been more than I expected. No problems! Yes, I have to service it more than a Japanese bike, but I knew that going in and that difference will not change my enthusiasim for riding a Ducati. There are probably better interstate tourers, but for someone who bypasses superslabs for canyon twisties there is nothing better. My only concern in getting the the ST3s was the high end power loss, but after reading the reviews, I’ll be gaining grunt in the low end. Since I usually average 35 – 65 mph of all day riding on my twisty trips, that low end power sounds like its where I can really use it. I’m not ready for a trade yet, but after reading reviews of the ST3 like this one my mouth is starting to water. My only hope is that Ducati will continue to improve this sporty mount in the next several years.

But what bout the Triumph Sprint ST? It is also remarkable. This is probably the ST3′s most closely rivaling mount.

with over 22,000 miles on my 04 ST3 I am still as thrilled to get on as the day I picked it up. From 10 hour day rides to running around the city the ST3 preforms impecably.
The comfort on long trips makes enjoying the complet ride possible.
I have added the Ducati performace carbon pipes ,upgraded ECU and open top air box. The touque is incredable. I also changed my front and rear sprckets going up 1 on the fron and 2 on the rear. This makes 6th gear a whole lot more flexible. Did however reduce my top end but I find the overall result perfect for my riding style .
The ST3 is by far the best bike I have ever owned .

I too would like to hear any comments or comparisons between theDucati ST3 and the Triumph sprint ST. I’m going to buy one or the other but short of a test ride I cant split these two.

I will continue to visit enjoyed the reading thanks

What a good article. I am lusting after a ST3 after going to the Superbike races and getting to hear the Ducs on the track. I have always respected the Ducati marque, but hesitated due to the maintenance requirements that seem to follow any discussion.

I have 8 bikes and my current favorite is my Honda ST1300, but now I must have the ST3! I haven’t even riden a Ducati of any sort, but the Honda feels like an overweight “sport” to me now after 3 years. I had one older fellow “in the know” tell me that Ducatis can be set up on the tight side with the valve train and not be adjusted again. Any truth to this?

I’ve got it bad for this machine!

Happy riding!
Ron

I swear that is my BMW in the pictures with the ST3. I am ready to move on to my next bike and I will sorely miss my R1100S. Sorely because my arthritic hip make the S unrideable for the 500+ mile days. I am very interest in a great sportbike alternative and this article helps as I wrestle with alternatives. I would really like your opinion on the direct contrasts and similarities between the S and the 3. I love the Beemers, but the current crop doesn’t have what I am looking for. How about the comparo?

Thanks,
Geoff

Thanks for stopping by the site & leaving your thoughts… As someone who used to ride an R1100S before making the dive into the world of Ducati, I suspect I have an unusual understanding of what you’re curious about. While the ‘S’ and the ST3 are both wonderful bike, they’re built for different applications. I know folks do long days on the ST3, but I sure wouldn’t. It’s not a ride all day long bike imho. Certainly not like a beemer. Additionally, if you’ve got a bad hip the ST3 won’t make that feel much better I’m afraid to say. It’s a Sport-Tourer with the emphasis squrely on the ‘Sport’ part of that equation. I suppose ultimately the difference between these bikes boils down to a very simple question or perhaps equation – do you want to ride long stretches of the day in relative comfort or do you want to ride shorter distances and feel more viscerally connected with the bike. If the latter of those two thoughts is more intriguing to you, then the ST3 is a worthy bike to consider. But on the other hand if you’d rather enjoy all day adventures the BMW is still the way to go from my perspective. And I say that as someone who obviously bleeds Ducati red…

What a great review, especially for those of us who swear that if you listen carefully enough to a Ducati engine, you can hear the overtones of the great Caruso singing opera in Monte Carlo. I love my monster, but I am seriously thinking about trading it in for an ST3. I’ve been on some amazing rides on my monster through the twisties in the countryside (nothing but white fences and horse farms on either side of the road), and the moster is amazing for that. The problem is that I’m a ski racer and I periodically have this impulsive need to ride 2-6 hours north into the mountains, even in the dead of summer. That’s where the moster kills me, because I get all that wind in my chest and the ride just seems exausting. My only concern is that if I go with the ST3 I’ll lose that swift amazing “feel” of the monster in the twisties. Since you’ve ridden both bikes, I’m really interested in what you have to say about that tradeoff.

After riding a ST3s at the dealer demo I purchased a new 07. My first ride was 385 miles. The only thing that made me stop was the fact that it was getting dark. Anyone looking for a 04 Interceptor?

Dog – Obviously the ST3 and a Monster are not exactly an apples to apples comparison. That being said, the ST3 is a remarkably agile motorcycle for a sport-tourer, especially when you enter & exit a corner. In my mind it’s certainly much closer to the feeling that a rider feels when they’re on a full blown Ducati sportbike, i.e. The 999, then what the Monster elicits in the same spot in the road…

But ultimately what you’re really pondering is one of those holy grail motorcycle questions – What bike lets you have fun on most weekends, but also offers the opportunity to go on longer rides, be it all day or all week?

That’s not an easy question to answer in many respects and/or for most folks because it’s all about the trade offs involved. Is the ST3 as aesthetically pleasing to look at as a Monster, probably not for most folks. On longer rides does it work better and would it be more fun? Absolutely. At least in my opinion.

But on an average weekend, which would be more exciting to ride? That’s really the tough one now isn’t it???

I can only speak for myself, but if I was the rider in question given the scenario that you’ve outlined, I think I’d lean towards the ST3. It’s bulkier, less conducive to knee dragging, and not quite as ‘hip’ or ‘cool’ – but, and this is a big but, it’s the right tool for the right job if you’re trying to walk that thin line between weekend fun and longer riding. The bike has a wickedly enjoyable engine and certainly offers a very, sporty experience. Sometimes I think the phrase ‘sport-tourer’ has become a bit corrupted by the image of big bulky BMWs and the like. The ST3 isn’t that kind of bike – In many respects it’s a more comfortable 999 that just happens to have saddlebags…

Mark – Congrats, The ST3 is a fabulous bike! Welcome to the fast life & times of the Ducatista

I ride an 05, ST4s (sans ABS) and would like to know if I am the only rider that gets a painful clutch wrist and at times a very painful index finger knuckle in the palm of my clutch hand after riding for an hour or two on terrain needing much gear changig. I would also like to know if bar rises will help. I otherwise enjoy greatly every other aspect of my ST4s.

I’m writing from Italy, I bought a ST 3 one and half year ago, rode it for 25.000 Km (approx. 16.000 Miles) and I support 100% the review. I do not know any ST 3 owner who has not fallen in love with this bike. Think to trade it in for a ST 3S ABS. But the future of this model appears to be uncertain. I would suggest that who loves this bike send message to Ducati (you can do it through the DESMOBLOG in Ducati Website) encouraging them to dedicate proper attention to this model and develop necessary upgrading (particularly aestethical).

Paolo – The ST3 is an incredibly wonderful machine. I completely agree with you, it’s a shame that it seems to go so unrecognized in the Ducati product line…

Dylan,

Fascinatin article with all I wanted to know. It seems I fit a minority archetype in that I am looking to, not replace what I have been riding for the past 27 years but, buy a new bike. The BMW R100S has served me extremely well and still does. I bought it new in ’79 but circumstances have conspired to allow me another toy. I have looked at the various BMW’s like the K1200GT, R1200RT, R1200S and even a Guzzi, but nothing prepared me for how good the ST3s is. I test rode it with a mate’s son on a test R1200S – an ex Monster owner and past mechanic for a Duke/BMW dealer, and he claims the ST3s to be the best Ducati he has ridden and I agree that the BMW range has nothing that compares. I think that there is enough fight in this old dog yet to still enjoy fast blasts through the mountain roads we have here in the Australian highlands as well as the odd day or two in the saddle. As a recently departed friend said to me only days before he died, “life is too short not to have owned a Ducati”. He still had 2. So the time has come to let the Bee Em rest in favour of something modern and your article has helped me decide it will be the ST3s. Totaly agree with how good the BM panniers are and no doubt I will miss all the camping gear I can carry on the BM, but I will still have her for the bush trips!

Glad you enjoyed the review and found it helpful. The ST3S is a heck of a bike – certainly worthy of high regard and many discussions. In my mind the rub, so the speak, is that any discussion about the ST3S ends up with drawing comparisons to BMWs and that’s a tough bit since Beemers have so well established themselves as the de facto sport touring marquee. For me personally what it comes down to is quite simple – the ST3S is a more visceral, emotional machine where as the Beemers are far more reliable and trustworthy when you’re riding through the back country in the middle of no where.

Enjoy the new bike and let us know how it treats you!

I haven’t ridden the ST3, but purchased a “new” 2002 ST2 (zero miles with full 2 year warranty from Ducati) a year ago. Actually, when I purchased it, I believe there was another one in Utah, but yellow– mine is the dark blue. When I went to a Duc club ride, it doesn’t get the stares of the other bikes because of the better lines other Ducs, but because it’s blue. The 2 valves = less valves to adjust– I hear the ST4 is definitely more of a challenge when it’s time for adjustments, not sure on the 3. Also, some shops give you a break price-wise on the adjustments with a 2 valve vs. a 4 valve motor.

I’m a SoCal native and live amongst motorcycle paradise with all the twisty backroads, Malibu, etc. Much of riding is about ability vs. the actual bike. On twisty Malibu canyon roads I’ve ridden with Monster S4RS, Paul Smarts, etc. I didn’t have all the road armor they had, so I held back slightly for that reason and slightly because they ride through the canyons more, but the most they waited for me at a Stop sign after a road several miles long in the canyon was roughly 2 seconds. Had I spent more time through the canyons, they probably would have had a tough time losing me at all, but I’m not an advocate of pushing it on public roads, especially when I’ve seen the helicopter visit several weekends out there because of someone pushing it too hard, some of these resulting in death to the rider as well.

Regarding the clutch question, there are aftermarket add-ons to get you a lighter feel. I’m a pretty avid weight lifter, so it’s not been a real issue, but riding through LA (from Ventura) to Irvine, where the freeway lanes are narrower, my left wrist did get a little tired through stop and go traffic one day (narrow lanes with Excursions and Hummers next to each other = no lane splitting in several spots). If the lever pull required is a challenge to you (they’re dry clutches), go with the aftermarket add-on which reduces lever pull by 40%, I believe. Do a google on Richard’s ST2 pages and you’ll find a lot of information that will apply to the ST3 on his site, as other than the motor, they’re very similar bikes.

In about 10 months, I’m now just shy of 10,000 miles. I believe the ST3 has the “gel” version of my seat which may be more comfortable, but my research leads me towards the Sargent (vs. Corbin) aftermarket seat. With a passenger on back (wife, son, or daughter) riding through canyons, braking and decellerating, you’re pushed up to the tank which isn’t always comfortable. Additionally, the stock handlebars are situated more towards the sport position and with someone leaning on my back, I find pressure points on my wrists that I don’t have when riding solo.

I test rode some of the Beemer bikes through canyons in Santa Barbara– they’re heavier and have more power than my ST2, but I prefer my ST2 much more. The Beemers felt like a giant scooter to me. When you hit their 100 horsepower range at the higher revs, the power definitely kicks in and IS exhilirating. But, if you’re riding through a canyon I find a V-Twin that doesn’t really care what gear I’m in much more controllable and fun to ride. My year of the ST2 is about 85 hp and I can still get to 130mph pretty quick. However, if you’re going over 100 and aren’t assured there’s not a black and white car around, you’re looking at your bike being impounded for several months and a ticket that’s equivalent to a DUI and stays on your record for 7 years, increasing your insurance costs similar to a DUI, etc. I’d rather pay $150 several times a year and go to a track where it’s a controlled environment and void any potential tickets.

The steel trellis frame is rock solid and I can easily flick the bike side to side and have NEVER had a surprise bump the bike didn’t completely absorb (none of the Beemers are as flickable, they weigh about 100 lbs more). I like the looks of the ST2 a little bit better (the only difference is the front shield/headlight). The ST3 resembles more of a jap bike, but does offer more wind deflection. I remedied my wind blast with a Zero Gravity shield. I’m waiting for shipment of my new Remus aluminum pipes from a dealer back on the east coast that will give it that Ducati sound on weekends and probably be slipped back off for rides with my wife so the sound doesn’t annoy her. This also lightens the ass-end of the bike by about 10 pounds. Cyclecat handlebars will give you the adjustability in the bars if you’re looking at racking up several 100 miles in a day. Throttlemeister will give you manual cruise control, as well. Both of these are polished aluminum, as well, and have a better build quality look to them.

My dream bike would be the 1098 motor (coming out in February) with the trick looking single-sided swing arm that most bikes have now, in an ST-esque frame, allowing 2-up riding, with the ST gas tank (5.5 gallons vs. roughly 4 in the 1098). Preferably even a little larger, as I’m sure it’s more thirsty than my ST2 motor. 160 horsepower, 90 lbs of torque, on a bike that weighs less than 400 pounds dry– that would be the ultimate swiss army knife of bikes to me! I’m tempted to buy the 1098 and let my wife be the mule on my ST2 with the 3 hardbags.

Maybe more information than what you’re looking for, but you won’t go wrong with an ST3, that’s for sure. If you’re looking for a point and shoot bike for long interstate riding, the Beemer is the way to go. If you have windy canyons near you, though, and like the VTwin Ducati sound, etc, I’d go with a Duc. I haven’t ridden the Triumph Triple, but my reading indicated it’s a very nice bike as well. My recollection is it’s a tad heavier than a Duc, but I could be wrong. The torque of a VTwin probably isn’t there, either.

Enjoy your riding,
Steve
shumeston@gmail.com

Nice read. So, you act as if Ducati never built a sport-tourer prior to the ST series. I guess you don’t recall the Paso series? Actually, they didn’t get it right until the 907ie when the Paso name was dropped. But I owned one for several years. I good ride it comfortably for miles, and also never felt exhaust heat or had cooling problems, unlike on my 996. In fact, the riding compromises on the 996 made me seek at a 907 just so I could have a nice, enjoyable commuter. But the 907 turned out to be much more than that. Anyway, I just wanted to point out that Ducati made a very nice sport-tourer prior to the ST series.

Paso was/is nice, but to be a true sport-tourer I think you need the hardbags, which didn’t come ’til the ST2, I believe in ’98. At least I’ve never seen hardbags on the models you’re referencing.

Steve

Great review. I ran across it after i went to a dealer demo 3 1/2 weeks ago and got a ride on an ’06 ST3s. I was hooked in 1 mile. You pretty much summed up everything i was feeling about the bike from just the demo ride. After riding the ST3s, i got on the S4R Testaretta. That ride tempered my feelings about the ST3s, so i began an earnest search for an ST4s. I found a near perfect red 2002 ST4s (with Arrow Carbys, FIM chip and DP comfort screen & faring) on a Ducati dealer website within days of the demo and bought it sight unseen. My wife drove me the 500 miles south to the dealer and i rode it home. What a great chassis! The first 450 miles were highway, but the last 50 were all the backroads i know leading home. The sound of the bike is intoxicating and the thrill from the twist of the wrist is invigorating. The Ducati ST is the most fun you can have with your cloths on. I sold my Monster 620 already. Poor thing was destined to gather cobwebs, so it was best to let someone else enjoy it. I sure did, but my connection to the ST is much stronger. Like you I have no idea why Ducati marketing doesnt push this bike, unless of course they see it as a threat to SBK sales.

Great review………I’m selling my 05 St3 only so I can buy one with ABS!

I have a bunch of bikes…….all buying decisions are well thought out…..The St3 was bought to replace a BMW K1200RS that was involved in a total accident. I wanted all the ergos and performance of the big Beemer, but a lot less weight and more fun in the Twisties. I thought about the ST4, but the mainenance issues sent me toward the ST3. It was a wise decision.

Thanks for a great review….

RoyB
Dartmouth, Ma
2007 DL650 V Strom abs
2005 St3
2004 VFR abs
2003 Tuorno
2002 R1150RS
2002 MV Agusta F4 750
2001 MG Rosso Mandello
2001 MZ Baghira
1989 Honda NC27

Thanks for some great insights into my new favourite. I’ve been looking at bikes for several years, in preparation for retiring at 55. (Hey, that was four years ago!) So, it’s down to a red ST3 at a local bike store I’ve been haunting—they are so understanding of my demographic.
I was glad to see that you included your height. The bike fits you. My wife tells me I look like a circus act on most “lust” bikes. I’m 6’2″. If your wife is willing to tell you that you look stupid, well, she’s been right before…
I imagine myself, after a hiatus of…can it be 30 years?— riding around(alone, she says) for a few excitable hours every day, and once/twice a year, going from Ontario to California to visit my brother. I’ve spent the last twenty years riding 4-5000 miles/yr. on an Italian, racing bicycle. I’m stunned by how uncomfortable and unadjustable most motorcycles are. The ST3 seems to fit me perfectly, and have a few little tweakables to make it even better.
I was wondering if you’d recommend getting the ABS over the non. The one in the showroom is a straight ST3. While I have thousands of miles of highway experience (reading mile-counters on swaying tandem wheel hubs), I seldom manage more than 30mph on the flats, and the Italian attitude to cycling brakes is: “Why would you want to slow down?”. I’ve read that the ABS can be shut off for riding on the edge; but since I don’t see myself wearing out knee-pucks, is this an issue? The ABS would appear to be a good option for driving among The Enemy, especially in the wet.
Still, after all the research/dithering, it’s come down to sitting on that bike, looking at that red, and feeling an old song starting in my chest.
Hey, I should sign off, and just go buy the damn thing! Thanks for the encouraging article…bookmarking, now.
Yours truly,
RogerinON.

Hi from the Southern Tip of the Dark African Continent ))

I`ve previously ridden a Multistrada 1000S DS. Most probably the BEST handling bike I`ve ever come across. It is just that when going upwards of 180km/h that the buffeting really starts getting to you. Then…….. an unfortunate crash which landed me in hospital with a pulverised left leg and the Duc on the scrap heap ;-((

After some fight with the insurance I purchased a NEW 2006 ST3 cause they wanted to rip me off on the replacement of the Multi. Now I must confess that it seems to have been for the better !!!!!! The ST3 is the ONLY bike. So comfy even on long hauls. I did a 1659km stopping only for fuel and the international border between namibia & RSA in 12 hours from Walvis Bay to Postmasburg. Now I know this classifies as a short Iron Butt, but really there was NOTHING wrong with my butt ) The seat is So comfy that I`m going to do a 3000Km in 36 hours on 28th Dec. The only place that hurt was my right hand gripping the juice.

The bike handles exceptionally well. I`ve been doing evasive maneuvers at 200km/h. This is sooooooo cool.

Hey, RED, what do you think about ABS; is it worth the upcharge? Slowing down doesn’t seem to be a big issue with you; but I’m a pensioner and living longer is the best revenge.On the other hand, what are you evading at 120km/hr? We have a foot of snow here, and I didn’t get to the store to buy the bike—ditherditherdither.
RogerinON

Wow, what a great bike. I was looking for a new ride and took an ST3 S on a demo ride, fell in love and didn’t look back.

I have owned a Super Hawk and a FZ1, the Duc out handles, looks and rides better than either of those bikes. I still do not have the bike broken in yet but, what I understand is that the power is down low.

Additionally the bike came with bags and Ohlins for those long days of twisty mountain roads north of Atlanta.

I like the ABS, it does pulse so you know when it comes on so you can back off the brakes.

Roger,

I purchased my first motorcycle about two years ago now and it was a Ducati ST4s ABS. This was my first motorcycle after I took the Sheridan College Safe Riding Course(being from Ontario I’m sure you’ve heard of that) and I must say I got a lot of …….”You Bought What!!!!”…when I was asked what kind of bike I was getting. The ST4s, like the ST3, is considerably lighter than the other touring bikes I intially looked at, and this appealed to me. I didn’t want something that weighed 700 pounds and had just 60 HP….not interested, no fun. The big thing that attracted me to the Ducati was an article I’d read about the ST4s ABS and how the writer raved about the non-linked ABS system. This system is setup for aggresive riding and doesn’t come on easily and it can also be shut off if you so desire. I wanted it because I was a novice rider and I was worried about riding in wet weather. Just having it gave me the confidence to ride in the wet without worrying. Saying that, I’ve put almost 16,000 KM on my Ducati and I’ve never engaged it once….but I wouldn’t be without it, because I know if I need it, it’s there. My advise would be to get the ABS and make sure you negotiate the purchase price based on the US$ selling price converted at todays exchange rate of 14.5% or so, or you’ll pay to much. I saved several thousand dollars on my 04 ST4S ABS by doing that. Ducati North America tries to some extra profit out of Canada by boosting the prices here….won’t work with me. Anyway, good luck and I hope you get your ST3, I’m sure you’ll love it like I do. Oh and I’m 55 as we speak, so go for it you’ll never regret it.

Paul.also.in.Ontario.

Paul,
Thanks for the from-the-saddle insights. I’ve had the “You’re going to buy what?!!” comments, too. And, what happens when you break down in…Kamloops…FED-X? And, about the exchange rate: I didn’t buy a Monster in the Spring, because of the US/Cdn(!) difference. My Brother in California could buy the same bike for -$2,000. I sent several posts to Ducati, and explained my disgust to the bike store. I was so pissed, we never got to negotiating. The sales guy said that the’07 prices have come down over ’06s. I’ll check it out before going further. One visit to a California site makes me think that they are now closer to par, but it’s certainly a good card to play.
As far as the ABS, it may come down to the ’07 ST3 w/o ABS being on the floor, and one with ABS having to be new stock for them.
Regarding Sheridan, I’m thinking that my thousands of kms on skinny tires gives me some training. I certainly can handle two wheels in traffic and bad weather—snow/rain/ice (OK, I’m crazy. It’s the lycra). One funny memory is of a fully dressed ST1300 turning back after passing me because it had started to rain. He had EVERYTHING: red helmet, red/black suit/gloves, red bags, red bike. I pressed on in my Eddie Mercks/hard-man mode. He probably went home with his double garage door opener, and spent the day detailing.
I like your observation about the lightness of the bike. I love the look of 700lb bikes with 60hp (Road King?) but they don’t feel “alive” like my bicycle. The only one that did was a used R1, in the showroom, but…the rocket-boy fantasies are…all…behind me now? The ST3 doesn’t even seem like a compromise. Currently, however, the red plastic I’m dealing with, is a Toro snow-blower which won’t start. I don’t think I can get out of London for the TO bike show this weekend. And as far as making it to the steeper fifties—Isn’t it great! So many choices; so little time. Smells like Boomer Spirit.
RogerinON

Hi Ron,

My son and I went down to the Toronto Convention Center for the Bike Show yesterday and it was great. Wait until you see the new Ducati 1098, it is absolutely gorgeous and from what I’ve read it’s going to be the bike to contend with for Superbike honours in 2007. I also sat on a brand spanking new red ST3, which is exactly the same as my 04 ST4S ABS except the ST3 has a wet clutch and mine is the dry type and of course the 996 motor in ST4s. If you do buy the ST3 with or without the ABS, I think you will really love it. I wouldn’t sell or trade my ST4s for anything. I might add to the stable, but I’m keeping that bike forever. I thoroughly enjoy my weekend 7:30 am rides north of Oakville in the country with no traffic and the winding country roads with a covering of huge Maple and Oak trees. When I ride those roads a always think to myself, man it’s great to be alive…there’s no better feeling.

The Monster is a nice bike, but not what I would want for any long distance touring. The air pressure on you at 100-120 KM is not enjoyable over a long or short stretch for that matter.

About the Sheridan College Course (or similar), it’s really worth going to and very enjoyable. You won’t regret taking the course if you so decide, it was a real fun time. There was quite a range in our classes from young girls and guys to middle aged beginners, right up to old farts like me. You really learn a lot and I’d riden a few motorcycles before and I didn’t even know what push or counter steering was….scary.
You ride from about 8:00 am to 6:00 Saturday and Sunday and basically you learn how to safely control the motorcycle in fast manouvers and slow close quarters control…..I found the close quarters stuff, the hardest by far. One of the exercises was accelerating quickly along a curved line and stopping in a designated box at the end, ok sounds easy enough. Well I’d switched bikes after our lunch break and didn’t realize the brakes on the Suzuki were a lot stronger than the Yamaha’s I had been riding. So when I hit the brakes just before the box with the same pressure I’d used earlier, I ended up doing a stoppy, with the rear well up about 6 feet in the air. I new I wasn’t going to go over, so I kind of smiled at the instructor and said I was just trying to liven the class up with a few trick manouvers. The whole class had a good laugh, as did the instructor, thank god. You won’t regret taking the course and it’s very, very worth while. Remember controlling a 500 LB motorcycle is a lot different than a 25 LB bike and the course allows you to get a bit of experience, with professional guidance.

Hey, what year is the ST3, it’s got to be a least a year old now, you might be able to get a really good deal on it if you buy it now and save the dealer from paying interest on it all winter. That way you could sneak out in the garage at night and go for a pretend ride like the guy in the Honda commercial used to do…..I always found that
funny…..and quite frankly, something I could see myself doing.

Have a great day.

Roger,

Just noticed my mistake…..addressed you as Ron….sorry, must be the early onset!!!!!

Regards,

Paul.

I am VERY close to purchasing a new 06 ST3 and have read many positives and only one negative. Anyone have problems between 3 – 4000 rpms with coughing/hesitation ?
I will likely make the purchase but would appreciate any feedback.
(can’t be worse than my 99 Road King!)

Just got back from the International Motorcycel Show in NYC. I was hoping to see an ST3 ABS but no luck. Seems Ducati had so many new models out that they fealt the ST3 would sit in the corner unattended in the 1098′s shaddow. 1098 is gorgeous by the way. Nontheless I was able to eye two of them up at my local dealer. Both brand new 06 and 07 models. I read this year that Ducatis need 50% less maintainance than previous years so my question is, are there any differences between the 06 and 07 models. I’m thinking of beating them up a little on the price for the 06 if all things are equal.

Thanks
Mike

I’m still dithering and shivering.
The ST3 at my local is an ’07. I guess I believe them, they look the same. I’m not close enough to buying to ask for the papers.
I’ve read that the side cases will [NOT] take an XL full-face Shoei—They lie?
In a recent BIKE, they go on about the -50%, but they don’t include the ST3…hmmmm.
Of course the beautiful 1098 is a 1099, but they don’t want us thinking it’s related to the 999, so…they lie.
I keep hearing about the finicky nature of Ducatis and wonder about cross-country tours. Yeah, I guess I could believe the promises. I noticed the lads took R1150 GS’s the long way ’round. Maybe an ST3 was their second choice?
Then, I just sent a ten year old Meile washing machine to the dump. $2,000 plus and gauranteed for twenty years. So much for German tech. Maybe we wash too much. $582 for the motor, and a six week wait.
That’s me in the showroom, losing my religion.
Maybe what bitter, little men, really really need, is a motorcycle. Any motorcyle!
Time to read some more reviews,
Roger

Ducati, surely owes you big time! I have googling ST3 articles and no one has done better than the great job you have done this article. Congrats! My choice of getting a ST3 this spring will be greatly due to the fine job you have done here. Keep it coming.

Well… Tomorrow morning is the day. I am heading down to Commonwealth Motorcycles in Louisville, KY to ride my new ’07 ST3s home. I’ve read and re-read every article I come accross. This one seems the most informative. I will be posting comments after putting some miles on her.

Go Desmotre!

Ron

Dylan:

Thanks for the excellent review. Can you tell me more about the head lights? The Ducati site says they are adjustable for vehicle load, which is a nice feature, but what type of lights are they? An ST3 passed me last week and only had one head light lit, like a Yamaha R6. I really need a 2-light, 4-filament system for driving at night. Do you know what type of bulbs they are using?

The ride height thing is curious to me. I keep my rear susp at the highest setting to improve the sluggish turn-in of the ST’s, and I’m about where the author describes his feet (I’m 2″ shorter). I’m wondering if perphaps the Ohlins forks are set up or are diminsionally different. At any rate, it should be known that the ST’s all have more susp adjustment to them than many Jap sport bikes, even…Showa or Ohlins. For those considering the ST3, the Showa units of ST2/3/4 are only usuable at their limit of adjustment to firm & preload. It is likely worth the additional cost of the S model to get the Ohlins if you are hauling over 320lbs of human(s)….it would be a bargain over upgrading your non-S model.

On mpg’s, I don’t know any Ducati ST to get better than 39mph, in real life. If you are shopping for mpg’s, you’re probably in the market for a boxer BMW of sorts.

2 centavos!

I now have a ST3 thanks to your article…thanks again. The bike is everything you wrote about.

After riding 14 previous Ducatis from a ’86 MHR Mille through a series of Monsters (5), Superbikes (888, 996 & 749s) and Super Sports 750 Sport & 900 SS ,plus ’92 907, a Multistrada and a MH 900e, I finally reached a point where I need some semblance of comfort. After reading your article I decided to purchase a 2007 ST3S ABS. It should arrive in two weeks from Atlantic Motoplex. The DP cans will be installed to enhance throttle crispness (I hope) and provide that wonderful Duc sound.
I live in Newfoundland so we still have several feet of snow. I will update this after several rides. Please note: unfortunately I do not still own any of my older bikes…but that’s another story.
Great article.

Very good article and messages. Seems many people had the same experience as I. Have owned Honda CB 750 and CB 1000, then Beemer K1200RS (liked alot) then traded for K1200LT (total boat, wrong bike for me). Then I went to the BMW / Ducati dealer and for grins rode an 07 ST3S. OH HAPPY DAY. Smile still hasn’t gone away. Almost sure I am going to purchase, but, I still don’t have a good idea of the maintenance and reliability costs and time etc. Could anyone give me an idea of the reality of these issues. Are they MUCH different than for a Beemer or others??? Thanks, a great site.

I’m also interested in the avrg fuel mileage calculated or displayed on this Duc? I’ve been eyeing her for awhile and would mainly be in town riding and weekend long runs.

I had a Honda CB 750 before the purchase of an 04 Multistrada. The Multi weighs about twenty pounds lighter and has twenty horsepower more. Needless to say it is much more fun to ride and has that great Ducati feel and sound. It gets around 45 to 48 mpg most of the time and the ST gets a few better because of extra body work and the water cooling which makes the engine more efficent. It costs more than my Honda for maintence but is in no way a deal breaker. The ST 3 does not cost nearly as much as an ST 4 for valve adjustments and if you keep out of the upper rpm range they dont need valve adjustments as often, just checks.

If you set the gas consumption to current on the gauge you can get the milage down to the teens at least for a few seconds.

Hey,
Thought I’d give an update. I am about to roll up 2000 mi since picking up the bike on Feb 22. This bike is a hoot to ride and seems to be growing on me as far as comfort is concerned. It reminds me of my old dirt bikes in many ways. I find myself wanting to look things over and cleaning it. I haven’t had a bike that draws me in like this one. I am starting to understand all the hoopla over Ducati maintenence issues. My left mirror lost a mounting bolt a few days after new, my battery went flat after a ride in hard rain, and I have had a screw back out of my front brake master cyl a couple of times. It makes me smile just thinking about it though, and smiles are why I ride motorcycles in the first place. I think anyone riding one of these just needs to keep an eye on things and work out the little bugs along the way. The light weight is a major part of why this bike is so much fun, and the fact that this engine is fantastic in it’s willingness to rev and that lovely sound. I’ll keep in touch as I pile up more miles. Oh, and for you drive shaft guys scared of chains. I haven’t even had to adjust mine yet.

Ron

Someone asked about fuel mileage. I just bought a cherry used ’05 ST3 last Saturday (only had 700 miles on it then). What a blast of a bike! It’s got 1500 miles now, Friday. Three tank fill ups, and it’s gotten 47 mpg on the highway twice, and 44 in the city once. Thats in 45-55 F weather. Still breaking it in. Summer mileage should be better. It seems the computer is awefully optimistic in reporting fuel mileage. It always calculated I was getting 53-55mpg average for those tankfulls. Oh well, it at least gives a benchmark to go by for the instantaneous mileage, if I want to pay attention to that. My bicycling mileage has dropped drastically since I got this thing. Gotta find a balance…

Having owned my 04 st3 for 2 years now, I have thoroughly enjoyed the ride. The only complaint I had was the flat spot if I had to really get out of the way on the freeway and I was already cruising at 60-65. So I did a little homework and contacted Ferracci in PA and talked to the service manager. We decided to put on a set of slip on exhaust, add the power commander, and upgrade to the large airbox. After a trip on the Dyno, my bike went from 104 rear wheel horsepower to 110. The flat spot was gone and bike explodes when I ask it to. The only other change I made was to have a custom made Corbin seat put on, and the long cruises at 80-85 are a dream. For anyone who wants a little bit of cruise, yet still ample sport. Don’t miss this bike.

Here I am again…my 07 STS ABS now has over two hundred kilos on the odometer. Finally the snow has melted. It has not been without the usual Ducati electrical drama. I have had to pull the side panels off and disconnect the battery twice to reset the ECU. Bike refused to start on two occasions; battery was fully charged. Then…on this very morning it decided to run on one cylinder…hmmm…a five hundred pound sport touring 500 c.c. single isn’t what I had hoped for. After riding it toward to the dealer who had agreed to look at it (there are no Ducati dealers in Newfoundland)the mega-single resumed its twin-like behaviour.
Troy LeBlanc of Atlantic Motoplex has been most helpful…Ducati Canada is fully aware and I am hoping that the new DP pipes, ECU and filter will pep up the response and start-up procedure. When the bike warm ups and runs on both cylinders it is an absolute joy to ride. I am used to the tempermental nature of Ducatis, but I would clearly hope that this annoying issue will soon be cleared up. I will keep you posted as our motoring relationship evolves.

not an ST3 owner, but a facelift ST4s owner, after 13000 miles (4500 of these touring europe, 2 up with full luggage) of smiles this is still great motorbike, whether your plogging down a country lane or out for a sunday thrash, this bike has replaced my trusty vfr750fv (that i toured the year before last and to say the least is a bit weak overtaking 2 up with luggage) and also replaced a cbr954rr3 that’s almost not turned a wheel since i got the Ducati, everything about the bike is surperb, you even get a smile closing the throttle.

the only issue is not with the bike but with the datatool alarm that drains the battery if you leave the bike in the garage for a long time, but the CBR is the same as that also has a datatool alarm.

http://www.bikepics.com/members/venturer/

I

whot’s the price of da massien ST3s

And of the per coffer(s)?

Are there payments a maand en howmutch dan?

Mat

I suspect that the disparity in your calculated mpg and the bike is that the bike is working on REAL imperial gallons not toy-town US ones ! That’s the trouble with you ex-colonials, can’t leave anything well enough alone

Toodle Pip
PAul

Sunny Scotland, no really it is…..

Just wondering, I am going to buy a ST3 in the near future, but am really concerned about maintenance costs. I am a buddy with a Duc 799 and his 6000 mile was right at $1000. He does not take care of his like I will mine, but has anybody else had this experience? The reason I am buying the ST3 is because it seem like more bike for the buck compared to the BMWs. Great bike at a better price, but if I spend thousands at every service, not much of a deal in the long run. I would like some opinions.

Thanks, Tristan

I just sold my 2003 K1200LT-E BMW Cruiser because I wasn’t doing any cruising and frankly the bike is way too heavy for short trips (7500 miles in 3 years) so I’ve decided to buy a lighter, more nimble sports tourer and have settled on either the FJR or a 2006/7 Ducati ST3. I love the idea of the Ducati plus we have an excellent Ducati shop close by here in Central Florida, without whom I wouldn’t give the Ducati a second look, given the service and small quality issues this bike seems to have. My head says buy the soulless FJR because it’s like a Camry or an Accord, excellent all round, high in quality and low in maintenance costs, but like those Jap cars, it exhibits little passion.

2 concerns I have that someone could elevate for me? What is the passenger comfort like? Although my wife doesn’t go along very often any more, she does like her comfort and the Yammi looks more comfortable? Also the riding position on the Ducati seems to be leaning forward on your wrists, anyone found this to be a problem? Last I have a 30″ inseam, and concerned about flatfooting, any comments?

Thanks

Cor

Cool…awesome….wish i had one…

I currently have a Monster 900. It does just about everything well, except for longer-distance touring. On rides over 1.5 hours, my rear-end hurts pretty badly, and my legs feel tight and sore. Thus, I’m now considering selling it and buying either a Multistrada 1000 or an ST3.

I’d like a bike that feels as flickable as the Monster, but I plan to do some 6-8 hour days on freeways and country backroads. Given such requirements, which bike would be more suitable….the ST or the Multi?

I have yet to read a comparison between those two bikes. Does anyone know where I can find such an article?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

Hey Jason-

If you want a flickable feeling the Multistrada is not the way to go in my opinion – don’t get me wrong, it’s a great platform and a wonderful ride, but I wouldn’t call it exactly flickable compared to a Monster or ST3.

As sport-tourers go the ST series offers a remarkable amount of the Superbike experience but with less of the extreme traits usually associated with full blown liter bikes.

>>>>I wouldn’t call it exactly flickable compared to a Monster or ST3.

Interesting. I would have thought the opposite…..that the Multi would feel more flickable than the ST.

Thanks for the input, Dylan. Your site and writing are very impressive, and have earned a permanent place in my top bookmarks. Keep up the nice work.

Hey Jason – Appreciate the kind words. If you’re interested in the Multi, it’s worth taking a demo for a spin. It’s a fun bike and offers quite a lot of enjoyment but in a different manor — it’s a bike that you ‘swoop’ into corners and countersteer towards the apex with. It’s a very confidence inspiring ride and has many of the same Ducati qualities: key among them perhaps its great stability, good sight lines and the wonderful 2 valved air cooled motor.

The ST series on the other hand replicas more of the superbike feel. Its got more extreme ergos then the Multi, which while much better then a full blown race bike when it comes to longer distances, has you cantilevered over a bit more. It offers greater acceleration — more of a toss you back into the seat sensation imho. And it offers something remarkably close to sportbike nimbleness.

So I think if I was to boil it down to a simplistic point of view, one bike is more comfortable and less aggressive, while the other one at times touches on the softer edges of extreme yet lets you hit the curves with the best of them.
D

Hey Dylan,

I have been considering buying an 07 ST3s ABS for some time & your article has been a great help – many thanks for an indepth review!

Just a bit about myself – I am very new into biking – biologically old (53 years) but young at heart! Living in India; which incidentally, has the largest production of two wheelers in the world, but mostly small scooters & max 200 cc motorcycles and any imports just add 200% to the cost!! I have in the last 9 months, first acquired a Suzuki 2005 Intruder (800cc) and recently. about 4 months ago imported a brand new 07 Honda Goldwing with ABS, Navi & Comfort package. Having driven four wheels all my life (& all kinds of – Porsche, Mercedes, Lexus, Bentleys etc.); riding a bike has been very cathartic experience. The first bike being the Intruder, I loved it’s classic looks & it was the initiation that I needed in biikng. The roads & weather (Bad & Hot) being what it is in India, at best I take the bikes out only during weekends for a short ride early in the mornings. It is the cruiser or the touring types that I am most comfortable on as we do not have the freeways like route 66!!

However, I have always loved the Ducati marquee and was looking for an appropriate model to add to my collection.

The question that I have for you is this – Both my bikes are shaft driven; the Goldwing actually drives like a car!! Would I have a problem with a chain drive and is it as comfortable? Second, I am not tall (5′ 9″; inseam 29″), would that create a problem in riding ST3s ABS?

I have in any case, gone ahead to import one. Hopefully, it should arrive in three weeks. Shall keep you all posted.

It is amazing that for someone, who has never posted any comment on a blog, what bikes can do!!

Take Care

Red Indian.

Picked up my new ST3 last week. 1000 miles later I am crazy about this thing. After reading all of the posts I can only say, DAMN. This is an amazing motorcycle. Yes, it’s bitchy in city traffic under 4000 rpm’s, but why are we driving this curve carving monster in the city anyway? This bike can carve up a road with the very best in motorcycling. And the ergo’s seem fine to me. I have a 29″ inseam and can stand flat footed at the corners. When I went to my local BMW shop they wouldn’t even speak to me. I guess I didn’t look like I could afford their products, even though I paid cash for my new DUCATI. The rest of the field in Sport Tourers is certainly fine. Sophisticated, comfortable and quiet. But this is Ducati’s ST. The hot rod of sport touring motorcycles. It’s shameless and quite snarly (sp?) compared to the rest of the old guy sport tourers. I’m 53 and have been riding almost my entire life. I’ve ridden all brands and vintages. But this thing puts a big smile on my face every time I light it up. So, to all the C.P.A.’s out there on the Davidson’s, Beemers and Asian touring bikes, ya better get used to the look of my license plate.

FWIW – I owned a 2000 ST2 which I really enjoyed riding, but as I got older and the few bits of arthritis bothered me more, I traded it for a BMW R1150RT expecting that its more upright riding position would help, but it just doesn’t work for me. I’m 5′ 10″ with a 30 – 31″ inseam depending on the pants and I find the BMW too tall, too wide, and too heavy. The seat-pegs-bars relationship just doesn’t work for me at all and I can tip toe it at best. Everyone said I’d get used to it, but no luck – my back kills me after 45 minutes unless I start out with 2 Aleve. I test drove an ’07 ST3S a couple of weeks ago, and I can’t believe what an improvement it is over the ST2, both in the engine compartment and ergonomically. The engine was smooth and pulled willingly from 2500 rpm, I can flatfoot it around, and the weight appears to be centered lower than the Boxer. And while I’m not sure I like the new fairing, it works way better than the original and the lights are way better also. I found it much quieter than the windshield on the Beemer, even at its highest setting. I think that with a set of Cycle Cat or Heli Bars risers the ST3 will be great as an all day rider. The only decision left is used or new, and what year. A 2006 or 2007 in the Senna colors looks sweet to me!

Great review. I picked up my new ST3Sabs on Thursday, rode to Monterey (400 miles) for business and back to Pasadena the next day. As an avid off-road and motocross rider the Ducati as a first street bike was a very different ride. I had HUGE buyers remorse after I signed on the dotted line. After 800 miles on the bike I am an absolute convert. Three days to do my break in service and now I am headed to Salt Lake City, Ut. Lets see if I am still so enthusiastic after 11 hours in the saddle each way!

Happy Trails,

Jess

Hey Jess, I would love to hear your remarks after 11 hours on your seat. I’m heading to New England in Sept. for several weeks of twisty mountain roads from Penn., N.Y., Vermont, N.H. and ocean views in Maine. Any input would be helpful about the comfort problems perhaps associated with an old turd like me. I’ll probably be doing about 8 hours a day. I can hardly wait to ride. Thanks, Bob

Hi Guys,
I just read on another web site that the ST3 series bike has been discontinued for 2008. Do any of you know if this is true? It’s a deal breaker for me if it is, I was just ready to sign for a 2007 ST3s but now I’m having doubts. I don’t want to be the last goat to enter the barn if you know what I mean.
LL75

Hey ya Larry-

Most folks do expect the ST3 to be discontinued for ’08, but don’t let that stop you from picking one up — it’s a great bike imho…

After 7000kms of riding my 07 ST3s simple get betterand better. As the last chap stated, don’t let the fact that Ducati is dropping these “sport-touring” bikes from its line stop you from buying one of these bikes. Count yourself lucky that you can still get one at a reasonable price.
I have had 15 Ducatis and this one is simply the best combination of comfort, handling and performance I have owned. I have the DP pipes, ecu …kit installed and am in the process of ordering slightly higher bars for a little more highway comfort. This bike handles the open road with the stlye of a touring bike and the rigors of the Cabot Trail with the zest of a sport bike with equal aplomb. If you want precise handling and braking order the “S” version with the Ohlins and ABS.

I also own a Paul Smart Replica for brisk forays into the performance nostalga vein. Ciao for now.

Great review! I have an ’06ST3, over 6000 on it now, and it just keeps getting better, and better. This is my first “new” bike ever (after fixing up older ones, etc.), and couldn’t be happier.

I was told by a Ducati dealer in NJ that that the ST3 is being discontinued. According to other sources Ducati just finished up their dealer meeting. I would like to have been a fly on the wall when that was discussed. This is a real shame; I was looking forward to getting many more ST3’s. Looks like the BMW K1200S will get my money when I’m ready for my next bike.

My wife has been bugging me to get a new bike. Multistrada or ST3? I still have my ST2…1998, original owner, with 34 thousand miles. Still going strong.
Most of the mileage was logged on the first two years I owned the bike. Ridden from LA, CA to Vancouver, BC and back a couple of times. Sweet rides! Very comfortable.
Now that I’m hearing that the ST3 is being discontinued, should I just go Multistrada or should I wait and see what Ducati is up to?

I don’t know who your questions is directed at, but I now have had both the Multi and the ST3, and I really love the ST3. The bike as you know rides and go a lot smoother than the Multi. If you like the dirt bike up-right position you will like the MS, but if you like the full fairing wind protection you will go with the ST3. I just love everything about it.

Now the sad news…yes Ducati is doing away from the Sport Touring category. The word is that they want to concentrate more on SportBikes and I guess that includes the MS.

I’m just going to ride it and ride it and buy more stuff and gadgets for it.

If you have room for two bikes… get them both! Best of Luck, but Ducati is not doing ST’s any more? I personally think it’s a mistake. After I’m done with my ST3…BMW will get my money.

I just test-rode a Multistrada 1100S last weekend. I have yet to ride a ST (I currently own a Monster 900), but that upright position just wasn’t for me. Although the most comfortable spot to sit was in the middle/back part of the seat, I kept sliding up into the gas tank. It was almost as though the seat was angled forward and dumping me off. Not very secure feeling, at all. As others have said, the wind protection wasn’t very impressive, either.

I’m looking forward to test riding a ST3.

Do any of you know of a ST-dedicated website and/or forum? I can’t seem to find any.

Dylan – You touched on the differences between the ST3 and the R1100S….can you elaborate? Which BMW would you say compares best to the ST3, in terms of power, handling, and wind protection?

A friend highly recommended the 2002-2004 K1200RS. How do you think those would compare?

Thanks so much for the great writing and resource!

Hey Jason-

There isn’t a dedicated ST forum the way there is for the Monsters (at least that I know of) – though the Ducati.ms forum’s ST board is quite active, so I would check them out…

As for your question about the BMW R1100S & the BMW K1200RS: My immediate reaction is that both of those bikes feel a lot heavier then the ST3 and neither offers the same kind of power or control in the brakes imho.

The KRS has a snapper engine then the R1100S and I would say from a seat of the pants sensation, probably offers more acceleration then the ST3 as well. But man is it a ‘big bike’. My old man has got one and whipping that thing through the corners is hard work. The upshot to that bike however is that it is more plush, has better wind protection and is perhaps more ergonomically friendly – so you can haul some pretty lengthy distances with no trouble. But all in all I think the ST3 is a better compromise between a sportbike and a sporttourer…

D

Dylan is right-there isn’t a dedicated ST forum or at least that I have found; The “twistingasphalt” is the closest thing to it.

Regarding MS forums the best one that i have found is http://www.multistrada.net/

It’s pretty good and you will find all you want to know from a global perspective.

I haven’t driven the BMW K1200S but it feel no heavier than my ST3, and the specs tell of it being a rocketship…and you will pay for it as well.

> totally agree

Jason…Sport Touring is relative small category amongst bike manuf. Every company has at least one. BMW I would say has the most, as Dylan would say, “old man bikes”.

Ducati, has what I think “the” nicest one out there, based on all aspects and category one who consider ready to pull the tiger. This Blog, the one we are on…was the decision factor for me. It basically confirm everything I suspected by a guy who did a great job reviewing the Bike.

I happen to be really lucky to have a great Ducati dealer near by which has a great service dept. Not the I’ve needed it. I have 4,500 miles and counting and I lover it and I average 48-50 MPG on country roads. It offers speed, looks/style…did I say looks, it’s reliable and oh yes it doesn’t break the bank.

Take one out and let us know how it goes. I suspect you be riding one soon. Best of luck

Carlos – Appreciate the kind words…

I would only offer this thought — BMW used to be an ‘old man’s bike’ (though I owned two in my mid twenties fwiw) but as a brand they’re getting younger every day and with every model introduction. The ‘new’ R1100S was a definite attempt to attract younger riders to the marquee and now with their entry into World Superbike, one has to think it won’t be long before we see a full blown Superbike… Personally I can’t wait… That being said most of their bikes do seem to attract / appeal to an older segment of the riding population…

D

D, I hate to talk about other bikes on this Blog out of respect fo rthe find job the reviewer did on this blog. I ended up buying my ST3 as a result.

And yes the K1200S does look interesting. I was hoping to getting the next ST3 that Duc would come out with but that wont be happening.

I had a feeling something was wrong when I attended the Bike show in NYC last winter and walked…well I tried to walk into their booth…it was packed with people (The rocket scientist who designed their booth built walls around it with a skinny door to do through, it actually kept more people out of it than anything). But, in any case the ST3 was missing from the floor. I had a feeling they unconsciously were sending a message.

Ducati just had their dealer/owner’s meeting and the news is out now. Triumph’s got an interesting ST as well, looking very much like the ST3. Check it out

I posted in here the first week I picked up my ST3. That was back in June. I just returned this week from a 7000 mile tour of New England, the Adirondacks in N.Y., Greens in Vermont, Allegheney’s in Penn. White mountains in N.H. and the coast and central mountains around Katahdin in Maine. I would find a place to stay for a couple of days, stash all of my bags and gear and ride light everywhere I could. Ran the “Kanc” and the notches so much in the White’s that I had to replace the front tire. It was cooked from all of the front only braking I did in the twisties. Finally, letting this great motorcycle do what it was made to do, fly. And that’s really my point here. This bike is completely as it was when it came from Bologna. I was tempted, at first, to change the handlebars a bit and maybe change the suspension. I decided the factory absolutely knew what they were doing and left everything as it was. PERFECT. It tore up the mountains like an animal! I must have passed 500 BMW’s and 5000 of those Harley parade floats. Getting stuck behind a Harley on a twisty mountain road is worse than getting stuck behind a motorhome. The greatest moto roads in the Northeast are no place for parade floats. Anyway, Don’t be afraid of buying any of the ST series just because Ducati’s stopping production on this model. I met several ST riders out there the road. One guy told me he had owned a BMW before his Ducati. He said he would buy another BMW….. when he was an old man. About sums it up for me. They all talked passionately about their bikes and how well they toured. Like a G.P. bike with luggage. And Dylan, I ordered my bike before I read your great review. You just confirmed what I expected this bike to be. You were completely right. By the way, I never got a speeding ticket! Thanks again, Bob

Well, I took a BMW K1200GT out for a test ride and walked away amazed.

Amazed that a motorcycle can provide such a soulless, dull riding experience.

The machine had absolutely no rider involvement. I kept looking down at it expecting to see an “Amana” or “Whirlpool” decal on the side. It truly is an appliance designed to transport one or two human beings from point A to point B.

Compared with my (or any) Ducati, it felt as though you could simply press the “TAKE ME HOME” or “TAKE ME TO WORK” button and contemplate your tax bracket and mortgage structure along the way.

I know now what Dylan means when he uses the word “visceral” to describe the Ducati riding experience. On a Ducati, you can feel the gear teeth mesh together when changing gears. You can sense how much torque is being applied to the clutch, and accurately judge whether the it’s necessary to pull the clutch in for the next gear change. You can hear the valves doing their job, and you can feel the flow of air through the engine.

Riding a Ducati is like having a backstage pass to the show. You get to enjoy the performance as a spectator, but you also get to participate in the performance as a member of the band.

Now, who wants to trade their ST3 for my Monster 900?

Well, I have certainly enjoyed partaking in this enjoyable blog. But, once Ducati decided to leaving me and all others that have purchased ST3′s hanging, I have decided to move on to BMW’s K1200S. Yes it costs more than the ST3, but the bike after only riding it for no more than 200 miles has proven to me to be a better bike. Fairwell, and thanks to this blog introduce me to a wonderful ride the ST3….shame on Ducati for canceling the Sport Touring class bikes.

Greetings from the Land Down Under.
Thank you all for this very enjoyable blog. I have been following the comments for a few months now…

Just like many of you, I can’t find appropriate words to express my disappointment with Ducati’s decision to kill the production of the STx line.

I was so disappointed that, ergh… how do I say this… that I went to a Ducati dealer and got myself a new ST3S, while they still have some left.

Read your blog last night and went and got an ST3 today….I have 24 miles on it. Traded my GT1000 in and rode away happy!

Read all the posts thanks to everyone!

Chris

Thanks to all of you for an informative blog on what seems to be an exciting bike. I am currently on a high end Moto Guzzi (2004 Cafe Sport) that I truly love…but… I would like to add a little more “tour” to my “sport” and I don’t want a character-less “sewing machine” bike. Sure, I like the Sprint ST , the VFR and the FJR, but I have always admired the ST3 and now feel the urge to savor that visceral experience that the Ducati offers. I rode a 07 ST3 this past summer during the Ducati demo days in the Atlanta area and I was stunned how comfortable and yet how sporty it was. More recently in Charlotte, NC I rode a used 05 ST3 (w/ 8,500 mi on the clock) and was again impressed with the motor/gearbox/ergonomics combination, but was a little disappointed in the handling in bumpy curves. I chalked it up to the suspension not being optimally set up, so I think it’s still the right bike for me. I would have to get the ABS model, since I am partial to Ohlins, having tasted that fruit on my Guzzi. The only problem besides the availability,is the price…the best discount I have found is hardly a $1000. I know what you’re all thinking: “stop your bitchin’ and just buy it!” Wise advice, I am sure. Alternatively, I do have a couple of used ST options in my area: a near-new 01 ST4 with barely 1,000 miles on it for about $6500 (no bags), or a 03 ST4s ABS with 16k on it for $7500. Should I cut my teeth on a quattrovalvole?
Thanks!
Philippe

Hi Dylan,

Any chance you could get a demo Triumph Sprint ST for a few days and review it? As I understand it, every Triumph dealer has one as a demo. Anyway, I’d love to hear your impressions of it versus the ST3.

Why not look at BMW’s K1200S…I bought a ST3 rode it for 5,000 then purchased the K1200S when ducati got out of the ST market and I never looked back. The K1200S kills the ST3 and I’m sure Triumphs Sprint as well. The difference is like day and night! Good Luck…stay safe

This review was a significant part of my decision to buy a ST3 in March ’07 for weekend riding (I was already spending more than I ever imagined I would for a motorcycle, so the ST3-S was out of the question).

5400 miles later I’m convinced it was one of the most brilliant decisions I’ve ever made. The bike is perfect for me (52 and getting back into motorcycles after a 10 year hiatus due to wife and kids – no complaints about that).

In addition to weekends on Angeles Crest, I’ve ridden up and down the California coast (LA to Monterey) and did a track day at California Speedway (highly recommended). Just recently I acquired the Ducati/Termignoni exhaust system kit which includes a different ECU and airbox; awesome. Last week I took the pannier brackets off and raised the pipes (in total a 90 minute job the first time I tried it; easy enough to reverse).

I can’t imagine ever selling it. Thanks for the compelling review.

I gave up street riding for over 20 years ago after a bad crash which scared the s___out of me but I got the fever again last year after riding with an good ol’friend of mine who owns a Monster. I test rode a lot of different bikes, BMW, Honda, Suzuki, but when I hopped on the ST3 I knew immediately that I had found the perfect bike for me.
Your article describes the bike beautifully and I couldn’t agree more that it’s probably one of the most versatile motorcycles out there. It’s unfortunate that Ducati discontinued the ST3 for 2008. I feel fortunate that my 2007 is now a collector’s item.

Hi Dylan
As others have said, your excellent review and the posts that have followed have had some considerable influence in my own decision to sign on the dotted line and buy one of these beautiful bikes. I turned 50 on March 7 and the next morning went along to City Ducati here in Melbourne, Australia. Picked up my red ST3 the following Saturday.

I decided that as I’d managed quite well without panniers in the past, I would save the $1600. As part of the trade in of my FJ1200, they gave me a Ventura rack and bag. These are a quality and well designed, New zealand made luggage carrier.

In many hours searching the web, I was fascinated by how so many people had such a similar field of “sports tourer” contenders as I was looking at. The notable ones such as the ST Sprint and VFR were joined by what I thought were less obvious inclusions such BM’s R1200R, R1100S and Guzzi 1200 Sport.

I think that what many riders are looking for in a sports tourer, other than comfort and performance, is that very hard to define trait called character. You read in magazines that this or that model has little or no character, or as is often the case, describing a bike as having some character can be a back handed compliment as a prelude to criticsism of other aspects of the machine.

What I’m trying to say is that the typical Guzzi test will bag it, but praise its character, while the Honda does everything you ask of it , but is called too bland.

Many factors contribute to the perception of character, but maybe as with other forms of attraction, it really only fully develops with time and the experiences you have with your machine.

My old FJ had heaps of character, as does the even older XT 550 I still have.

I test rode a VFR800, an R1200R and the Guzzi 1200 Sport and looked at the Sprint, all of which are great bikes, but since having my first ride on a pre-owned 01 ST4 and two following rides on the demo ST3s, my mind and heart were heading to that red motorcyle from Bologna !!

I was a bit like “Goldilocks” in the children’s nursery rhyme trying out the chairs….this one was too smooth, the other too big, I don’t like that colour……but this one is just right !

I’m about 5’8″ and find the comfort great, though I’ve still not done any longer rides yet. The seat height at 820mm is a whisker high, but as it is considerably lighter than the FJ, I’m easily getting more familiar with parking and manuevering it.

Many Thanks

Wayne

Nice review. Definate help for the decision to go ST3.

Bonus is that my local Ducati dealer have lowered the price of the ST3 to shift them out of the shop.

Traded my 2005 MTS 1000DS for a brand new 2007 ST3S-ABS, including carbon fiber cans, hard full luggage, touring seat, tinted screen, et. al.

The after-market clutch slave, heated grips, sliders and HID are getting transplanted.

Roll on summer.

Hi I’m from the “Land Down Under”
Am seriously looking at buying an ST3s ABS. Have ridden a few ST2′s, ST4′s and 1 ST3. Am mighty impressed by the various attributes of all of them, some better than others.

I’ve narrowed my next bike down to either a Triumph ST Sprint, or the at this stage favoured Ducati ST3s ABS.

If somebody can answer a few questions on the Ducati for me, would be much appreciated.

1/ Are there any inherant issues/faults that I should be looking for ?
2/ Any factory recalls that should have been carried out ?
3/ How good or bad are the panniers ? I’ve been told the locks are ordinary, and the shape diminishes the “real” carrying capacity
4/ Does anybody have the factory rack and topbox, and if so, opinions please
5/ Does anybody have the Becker or H&B panniers and topbox fitted ? And if so, opinions please.
6/ Service intervals on the ST3s ABS. I’m told these are critical for longevity, but are fairly expensive, especially the 10,000 kilometer ones that involve doing the valves. A VERY reputable mechanic who is not at a Ducati dealer, but who has serviced many of them, told me that every time he’s checked the valves on them, they have been OK, but it still takes time, so costs money. Any thoughts please ?

Cheers from OZ

1) I’ve not heard of any major issues with the latest models of the ST3S, although I did manage to get myself a “Friday Job”.

First a connector came loose so the fuel-pump wouldn’t start, then the flywheel moved too far from the timing sensor so the engine didn’t start, and finally a partially cut wire (during their last checking on why it wasn’t working) snapped.

All 3 times I was out-and-about and called Ducati Assistance to come collect the bike. Even now, I hear some weird sound (like gravel hitting the inside of the mudguard) from the front when breaking.

But don’t let that put you off. It’s very uncommon to have issues with the ST3S, and overall I’m happy with the bike, just not as worryless as I was with the MTS which never had a single problem.

2) I believe my dealer did do one factory-required change. Just don’t remember what it was. Of course, I’ve heaped DP parts on it.

Oh yeah. Get the DP mufflers and ECU. If not, you’ll find it “hunts” around 2500 rpm and when riding slow you’ll get a slight jerking back-and-forth cos of fueling problems. The race cans smooth everything out perfectly.

3) Panniers are good. Strong enough to sit on without deforming. Big enough to fit a helmet inside. Locking mechanism is OK, but a bit fiddly in the rain with gloves.

4) I have the DP rack and topcase. Looks good without the case, still good with it, although it sticks out from the back quite a bit. Plenty of room for 2 helmets. Has the padded backrest with is well liked by the lady.

5) No comment as I don’t have them.

6) I can’t comment on the cost of the 10000Km service since I’ve only just had the 2500Km one done, but that was about US$150. Oil, filter, etc. Will look up the service receipt for details.

Greetings all. It’s now just over one year on from my purchase of the ST3. I have clocked up about 6,500 k and have been extremely happy with this machine.

The stock ECU was replaced at the 1000 k service under warranty, due to less than ideal running in city traffic. Out on the open road, not much could be faulted, but in City traffic I had the occasional engine cut-out at idle and an annoying hesitation when starting off at the lights or from low revs. The replacement ECU was only slightly better.

Then, one morning whilst stopped at a stop sign on my way to work, I was rear-ended by a guy in a Commodore. After I told him what I thought of his driving ability, judgement etc, I then “asked…what were you thinking”. The answer ” I thought you were going to go !! “.

The short story is that I now have the DP kit of Pipes, fully tunable ECU, new airbox etc and the result is like chalk and cheese. It runs beautifully at all speeds and sounds better into the deal !

It was done just a couple of days before the Ducati Turismo 08 in South Australia. I had a fantastic 4 days on Turismo, along with the 299 other participants. Plus the travelling over and back to Melbourne. 3,500 ks in 8 days. So many Ducati’s all in one place….well not exactly one place all the time !

I had bought a new pair of Alpine Star touring gloves prior to Turismo and these addressed, along with adrenalin, the palm discomfort I had been experiencing in my right hand. It may seem obvious to many of you, but the big thing I discovered about the gloves was to tighten up the wrist strap when I put them on, especially the right one. I don’t really bother as much with the left one.

With the poor running of the bike at low speed initially, combined with the throttle sensitivity of a modern fuel injected V twin and my old loose fitting gloves, I had developed a tension inspired discomfort and found it hard to settle the right hand into a good position. I have read about another rider on a Ducati forum with the exact palm position problem and I couldn’t believe the solution for me at least was so simple !( as tightening the wrist strap )

The ST3 proved to be beautifully comfortable on even the longest days I rode of about 500 k’s. I felt no need for a gel seat or sheepskin cover.

I also get the gravel in the front mudguard sound under braking that Andrew mentions, but this only seems to occur when there is actually small stones etc sticking to the tyre at low speeds. There is very little clearance under the guard and I’m going to try and make some Stainless Steel modified “raisers” for the mounting brackets.

Thanks for the great site

Cheers Wayne

any updates coming ?

I attended a PR event at my dealer a few weeks ago where they talked the current models, and the factory, and Ducati in MotoGP. All in Japanese of course, so I hardly understood any of it. But the pictures were gorgeous!

Anyway, they had that spy shot of the new Multistrada, and asked us politely not to blog about it (about a month too late in my case).

Nothing about a new sports tourer, but I’m pushing for them to give me any hints on what might be unveiled at Milan.

I like so much to ridding the bike in any high way road…its a very good experience for me…thank you so much to post this type of blog.