Ducati SPORT 1000 S, Owner'S Manual

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Moving off
1) Disengage the clutch by squeezing the control lever.
2) Push down the gearchange lever firmly with the tip of
your foot to engage first gear.
3) Raise the engine revs by turning the throttle twistgrip
while gradually releasing the clutch lever. The
motorcycle will start moving.
4) Release the clutch lever completely and accelerate.
5) To change to second gear, close the throttle to
reduce the engine revs, disengage the clutch, lift the
gearchange lever and release the clutch lever. To
change down, proceed as follows: release the twistgrip,
disengage the clutch, briefly rev the engine to allow the
gears to synchronize, shift down and release the clutch
lever. Use the controls intelligently and opportunely:
when riding uphill, change down immediately when the
motorcycle begins to slow down to avoid abnormal
strain on the motorcycle frame and the engine.
Important
Avoid sudden acceleration, as this may lead to
misfiring and transmission snatching. The clutch lever should
not be held in longer than necessary after a gear is engaged,
otherwise friction parts may overheat and wear out.
Braking
Slow down in time, change down to use the engine brake,
then apply both brakes. Pull in the clutch lever before the
motorcycle comes to a stop to prevent the engine stalling.
Warning
Use both the brake lever and the brake pedal for
effective braking. Using only one of the brakes will give
you less braking power.
Never use the brake controls harshly or suddenly as you
may lock the wheels and lose control of the motorcycle.
When riding in the rain or on slippery surfaces, braking
capacity is significantly reduced. Always use the brakes
very gently and carefully when riding under these conditions.
Any sudden manoeuvres may lead to loss of control.
When riding down long, steep downhill slopes, change
down to use engine braking. Apply the brakes intermittently
for brief periods only. Keeping the brakes applied
continuously causes the friction material to overheat
and dangerously reduces braking effectiveness.
Under-inflated tyres reduce braking efficiency and may
adversely affect handling and road-holding on bends.