2005 Ducati ST3, 992cc, desmodromic valves, heated grips, Ferracci exh, Brembo

Sport-touring has never been done any better than this, ither before or since. First, his is a Ducati. So it's an Italian racing bike at heart, ith 992 cc's and Ducati's signature desmodromic valve action, eaning that the valves are forced in both directions by cams ... no springs. The "3" in ST3 means that it's got 3 valves per cylinder. The engine is smooth and sweet, ith plenty of torque throughout the rev range. It's got that characteristic Ducati instant acceleration whenever you need (or just want) it. Chain drive. Brembo brakes are precise, trong, inear & fast.
None of this is surprising. It's a Ducati. The surprise is how wonderfully comfortable the bike is for all-day riding. If you're comparing to other years or other ST's, he seat was vastly improved for 2005 and forward. This is the stock seat, nd nearly every rider/owner agrees it's superb. No need whatsoever to drop big bucks on a Corbin or Sargent aftermarket seat. For added comfort, eli-bar risers are fitted. This gives a more upright riding position. Softer, ider overgrips are fitted, oo. And there's a larger, inted windscreen for additional protection. Finally, oth front levers are adjustable to suit the rider. (You'll get the original, lear windscreen and bar risers, oo, n case you prefer those.)
Heated hand grips (2-stage) extend the riding season. (I've always ridden this bike year-'round, ven here in the northeast.) A carbon-fiber hugger is fitted over the rear wheel. (Looks great!) A "Fast by Ferracci" exhaust system enhances the already-distinctive Ducati sound. The hard side bags work great and offer tons of storage. Note also that the original hydraulic fluid covers on these bikes tend to degrade and look bad after a few years. At the last service, upgraded to new, nodized covers on both sides.
This bike is just a blast to ride. There are plenty of Touring bikes available. And some of them are even somewhat Sporty. But if what you want is a true Sport-Tourer -- heavy on the Sport -- than this is the best that's ever been made, n my opinion ... and certainly the best you'll get at this price! :-)

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