Ducati SPORT TOURING ST3, Owner'S Manual

Page: 150 / 403

53
E
Moving off
1) Disengage the clutch squeezing the control lever.
2) Push down on gear change lever sharply with the tip
of your foot to engage the first gear.
3) Speed up engine, by turning the throttle twistgrip and
slightly releasing the clutch lever at the same time. The
motorcycle will start moving off.
4) Let go of clutch lever and speed up.
5) To shift up, close the throttle to slow down engine,
disengage the clutch, lift the gear change lever and let go
of clutch lever.
To shift down, release the twistgrip, pull the clutch
control lever, shortly speed up to help gears synchronize,
shift down and release the clutch.
The controls should be used correctly and timely: when
riding uphill do not hesitate to shift down as soon as the
motorcycle tends to slow down, so you will avoid
stressing the engine and the motorcycle abnormally.
Important
Avoid harsh accelerations, as this may lead to
misfiring and transmission snatching. The clutch lever
should not be pulled longer than necessary after gear is
engaged, or friction parts may overheat and wear out.
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.
Warning
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.
Any sudden manoeuvres may lead to loss of control.
When tackling long, high-gradient downhill road tracts,
shift down gears to use engine braking. Apply one brake
at a time and use brakes sparingly. 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.