Costs of owning a Ducati?

[Castaway]

Hey Ducatisti,

I've been considering a Multistrada 1000DS for my next bike. It would be my first Ducati (first Euro bike) and I'm wondering about parts availability and cost for basics like air filters, chain and sprockets. I've been searching around for rear sprockets and they're much harder to find than those for the 'big four.' Where is a good place for parts?

Does anyone here do their own valve adjustments? Is the difficulty more myth than reality?

I've read that the Multi had some valve guide problems in the 2004 era. Do you have any knowledge and/or experience with this?

Are there any aftermarket luggage systems for 'em? (I didn't see any over at Twisted Throttle.)

Are there any quirks with this bike that would be good to know about before buying one? (Aside from the looks.    )

Thanks for the help!

[atadaskew]

Parts are easy to get, whether from a dealer or mail order.  I use:

www.desmotimes.com

www.ca-cycleworks.com

Regular maintenance items like filters actually are cheaper than those for many Japanese bikes.

[Castaway]

Thanks for the help, atadaskew. I'm trying to figure out the 'quick change' sprocket design - I assume that's for those who have to have everything?  

I've come across some warnings about the gas tank deforming due to ethanol. Any info regarding this would be appreciated.

[falconati]

If you don't do the service (I don't), it's relatively expensive.  It really depends on the Duc that you buy, but on average I'd say somewhere between 75-100% more expensive to maintain than a Japanese bike.  A major 20k service for a Japanese brand will cost the same (or perhaps even more) than a major service on a Ducati due to all the plastics you have to take off to get to the engine; however the Duc is more expensive because you're supposed to check the valves more frequently.

That said, it's just money.  You can't take it with you, so spend everything you have while you're still alive.  Life is too short to not ride the motorcycles you want to.  If it's financially in reach, just go for it.  There's nothing worse in the realm of motorcycling than pining over 'the bike I should have bought.'  My Duc is expensive, but I love it.

[kendenton]

Head over to multistrada.net for the answer to all your questions.

[Castaway]

Head over to multistrada.net for the answer to all your questions.

Yes indeed, I'm digging about over there. Saw your posts too, Ken.