2007 Ducati SportClassic GT 1000 Owners Manual - Page 38
2007 Ducati SportClassic GT 1000 Manual
Page 38 highlights
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. 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. 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. E 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. 38