ST3 / ST3 ABS

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Ducati ST3 ABS

The ST3 S ABS represents the flagship of the Sporttouring family. While it shares many features of the ST3, the ST3 S ABS goes much further in terms of chassis components. Although frame and engine are the same, the differences lie in the suspension and brakes, which are designed for higher performance and feature ABS. Fully adjustable upside-down Showa forks with TiN coated stanchions ensure sure-footed handling up front while an Ohlins shock not only helps smooth the way at the rear, but also uses a remote preload adjuster to enable rapid changes to suit luggage load or road conditions. Ducati's now well proven ABS system needs no introduction. Specifically designed for riders who insist upon the same level of control in emergency braking conditions as that available in most cars, the ST3 S ABS offers a system which actuates with a much finer operation threshold so as not to restrict more extreme riders.

Style

The ST3 S ABS is equipped with stylish five-spoke wheels instead of the standard ST3 three-spoke design. Further differences are evident in the technically more advanced suspension systems and the proud logo on the bodywork claiming its 'S' and 'ABS' status.. Otherwise all features are shared by both versions, from the colour range to the height adjustable handlebars and multifunction instrument panel. Although performance is identical to the standard ST3, certain components have been enhanced to emphasise the sporting nature of this 'S' version touring machine and to help it achieve thrilling performance levels. In this context, the Trellis frame uses suspension derived directly from competition-oriented Ducati models. Front forks are by Showa with the stanchions TiN coated - a process normally reserved for competition machines designed to reduce sliding friction to the absolute minimum. Needless to say, the forks offer full adjustment facilities for compression and rebound which enables maximum personalisation for riders seeking the ideal suspension set-up for all types of riding conditions. Similarly, adjustments to the rear Ohlins shock, offers the possibility to adjust preload by means of a remote adjuster, easily operated without tools. Brake discs are the same as those of the ST3, with a pair of semi-floating 320mm for the front and a 245mm for the rear. Apart from the ABS system, a further detail that characterises the 'S' version is the lightweight aluminium alloy front disc carriers which help keep rotating mass down to the absolute minimum and so enhance the sports orientated handling.

Chassis

The antilock brake system developed by Ducati features more advanced functions than most other motorcycle ABS systems on the market. The system responds immediately in the situation of 'wheel-lock' or 'skid' and reduces the risk of losing control while braking on treacherous road surfaces or under emergency braking conditions. The device manages information transmitted to the ABS control unit from the speed sensors on the brake discs, and data is constantly analysed by dedicated software that compares average road speed with the instant speed changes measured at each wheel. If the ratio between the two values falls below specific safety limits the control unit acts exclusively on the brake caliper receiving excessive brake pressure. The immediate pressure adjustment on just one of the brake circuits eliminates wheel lock-up before returning pressure to its previous value when the ratio of measurements returns to within the safety zone. With respect to the average motorcycle ABS, the Ducati system developed for the ST3 S offers far more sensitive control for the rider, with a 'feel' very close to that of a conventional braking system.

Powerplant

With the excellent performance of the super-modern three-valve per cylinder powerplant, there was clearly no reason to make any changes for 2007. Rather than increase power, designers chose to maintain the excellent balance between performance, flexibility, and fuel consumption, characteristics that have distinguished the magnificent Desmo3 since it was first introduced.