need advice from st3 owners

[st ryder]

The major differences are the '04's, the first year of the desmotre, they are all desmos, that's a big part of what makes them Ducatis, have a dry clutch and open loop efi, whereas the '07 has a wet clutch and closed loop efi, and the '04's headlamps could be electronically adjusted through the dash. Cosmetic differences are the 06 and later frames are red and wheels are black as opposed to the 04-05 silver frame and grey wheels. Otherwise, the bikes are the same. The 04-05 ST3 did not have the premium suspension, aluminum swing arm AND abs brakes that were available in 06-07 ST3"S" models. The 04-05 open loop models do not require a DP ecu if adding slip-ons, whereas the 06-07 closed loop models will needs a DP ecu, and perhaps a PCIII to tune them with aftermarket open pipes. The '04 was the only year ST3 with a dry clutch.

[ZED]

If the '07 was an ST3s, that could explain the difference in price.  In addition to the ABS, the ST3s has a fully adjustable front suspension, aluminum swing arm, lighter Marchesini rims, and a fully adjustable Ohlins rear shock.

[GooseMan]

No, the 07 was just a normal ST3. I found out the 04 has 40,000 km, and the 07 has 11,000km. I guess thats the main reason for the price difference.

Personally, I dont find 40,000km to be a lot, but is it a lot for a Duc? Are there any major items that will be in need of service soon? What about valve adjustments....what are the intervals again?

With my riding, I'd probably be doing around 10,000 km a year, so if its one valve adjust per year, then thats not that big of an issue.

Also...about the dry clutch, whats the difference between wet and dry? Are there any advantages or disadvantages to either? Is it possible to put the newer, wet clutch into the 04?

Sorry for all the dumb questions!  

[ZED]

After 10-12k I had my second servicing and noticed a difference in the engine.  It was much smoother with the valve adjustment, so I recommend an annual adjustment for that sort of millage. (in the winter when you can't ride anyway)

I'm on my first Ducati and it only has about 13,000km on it so I can't comment on the longevity.  I hope it's high.  I really like my ST3 and look forward to all the miles it will take to mile it out.  

[GooseMan]

Why dont ya take a nice ride out to Montreal?  

Well, thanks for all the info guys! The ST3 is not my new object of obsession!  

[Major 662]

Haven't noticed the heat, but then I haven't ridden mine in much heat yet.

I also haven't noticed the kite phenomenon, but then compared to my other bikes the ST3 is very sleek and aerodynamic.  So, I guess it's a relative thing.

I've commuted in 100F degree heat and my biggest issue was sweltering inside my gear, but that's not really related to the bike.  Heat on the legs was never an issue with jeans/boots.

I haven't had any crosswind problems either, and my ST3 has been through a few storms.

The accessory jack (for heated gear) and good bags make it a decent commuter.  The biggest shortcoming -- the clutch pull -- can be fixed with an aftermarket cylinder if it becomes an issue.

[btcooksr]

We have 2 ST4's that have open air boxes with K&N filters, Remus cans remapped ecu's and replaced front sprockets to 14tooth bit. These bikes are awesome, very sporty all arounders and not bad in city traffic.