User manual DUCATI ST4S ABS-2004

[. . . ] Owner's manual E DUCATISPORTTOURING ST4s ST4s ABS 1 E 2 Hearty welcome among Ducati fans!We think you will ride your Ducati motorcycle for long journeys as well as short daily trips. We are steadily doing our best to improve our "Technical Assistance" service. For this reason, we recommend you to strictly follow the indications given in this manual, especially for motorcycle running-in. [. . . ] Braking Slow down in time, shift down to engine-brake first and then brake applying both brakes. Pull the clutch lever before stopping the motorcycle, to avoid sudden engine stop. ABS system (ST4s ABS) Using the brakes correctly under adverse conditions is the hardest ­ and yet the most critical - skill to master for a rider. Statistically, the risk of a fall or an accident is highest during braking. A locked front wheel leads to loss of traction and stability, resulting in loss of control. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) has been developed to enable riders to use the vehicle's braking force to the fullest possible amount in emergency braking or under poor pavement or adverse weather conditions. ABS uses hydraulics and electronics to limit pressure in the brake circuit when a special sensor mounted to the wheel signals the electronic control unit that the wheel is about to lock up. This avoids wheel lockup and preserves traction. E 59 E Pressure is raised back up immediately and the control unit keeps controlling the brake until the risk of a lockup disappears. Normally, the rider will perceive ABS operation as a harder feel or a pulsation of the brake lever and pedal. The front and rear brakes use separate control systems, meaning that they operate independently. Likewise, the ABS is not an integrated braking system and does not control both the front and rear brake at the same time. The ABS may be turned off by pressing the button incorporated in the LH switch (see page 31). Warning When the ABS is off, the vehicle provides the standard braking force offered by the regular braking system. As a result, using one brake at a time will reduce braking efficiency. Never use brake controls harshly or violently or you may lock the wheels and lose control of the motorcycle. When riding in the rain or on slippery surfaces, braking will become less effective. Always use the brakes very gently and carefully when riding under these conditions. When tackling long, high-gradient downhill road tracts, shift down gears to use engine braking. Keeping the brakes applied all the time would cause the friction material to overheat and reduce braking power dangerously. Underinflated tyres reduce braking efficiency, handling accuracy and stability in a bend. 60 Stopping the motorcycle If you let go of the throttle twistgrip, the motorcycle will slow down gradually and smoothly. Then, shift down releasing the clutch, and finally change from first to neutral. Important Never leave the key in the ON position when engine is stopped, or this will damage the electric components. 50 Parking Stop the motorcycle, then put it on the centre stand to park it (see page 44). [. . . ] The liability of Ducati under this Emission Control Systems Warranty is limited solely to the remedying of defects in material or workmanship by an authorized Ducati motorcycle dealer at its place of business during customary business hours. This warranty does not cover inconvenience or loss of use of the motorcycle or transportation of the motorcycle to or from the Ducati dealer. Ducati shall not be liable for any other expenses, loss or damage, whether direct, incidental, consequential or exemplary arising in connection with the sale or use of or inability to use the Ducati motorcycle for any purpose. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of any incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you. [. . . ]