So I got my 1198S on Sat am. It's only done 1,100 miles! When I finally got out on it on Sun, I noticed the shift lights started coming on v early; perhaps 3/4,000 rpm. Having a look through the manual, I can only assume (it doesn't say specifically) that the bike is not run in yet and up to 2,500 km, the rev ceiling is 7,000 rpm. Would this be the case? I'm sure on my Aprilia RSVR there was an option to determine where the shift light came on. (Can't find anything on the search!) As a part 2 to my newbie questions... Starting it up seems to take 2 or 3 attempts with the screen cutting out. Is this an inherent trait or is it likely to be a low batt? Again, my Aprilia did this but only when the battery was on its arse. Thanks
Shift Lights??? First job would be to take the bulb out of that ridiculous contraption - if a motorcyclist needs to be told when to change gear he should put his bike on e bay and buy an automatic Golf diesel
Starting thing is normal when cold Cant really help re the shift lights but thought they were adjustable but could be wrong
Well exactly... But as they come on so early I presumed it was to do with the running in. Manual is no help though!
That's your problem. The shift lights & DTC use the same lights. I would start the DTC on level 4 at the highest for road riding; above this, its very intrusive & makes for a very jerky throttle. Also make sure the tyre sizes are correct as this can upset the DTC. Also, the 1198 doesn't have a servo start so 2 or 3 attempts isn't unusual in my experience. Don't touch the throttle until is starts & make sure the battery terminal & leads are good; you can upgrade them for reasonable cost.
Defo sounds like DTC is cutting in. On level 8 it's second guessing that it's going to slip rather than spinning up. Try level 4 for starters
I came from an aprilia rsv as well .... 1198 is an awesome bike ... first thing i did was upgrade the battery and check earth cable connection and stick iridium plugs in .. starts better
Ok... Thanks. That is a great help. The main dealer told me today it is the cold weather that lowers the cranking amps. I've had a search for the earthing cable... I've seen reference to it but not sure where I'm looking. Could anyone point it out? And what is a suitably upgraded battery? Something like this with a higher cranking output? Battery Ducati 1198 2008-09 (Motobatt) - Motorcycle Products UK
Earth cable is on the engine case screw, to the right from the battery ... just follow the cable from the battery... easy to find I put this in mine ... Yuasa YTX14-BS Motorcycle Battery You can take the spacers out of the battery box and it fits in easy
I too had a hundred questions when i got mine in October some good info vids on youtube with servicing. .. oil change ..belt change . etc
I have never gone above 4 on mine as it is just too intrusive, as mentioned above. 4 seems just about right. You'll be wanting Exact Start cables for it to start better, pm @Exige on here. Any pictures?
Thanks Pavey. I'll give him a shout about the cables. I'm used to traction in a car where it only intervenes once it detects slip. I'll give it a crack when I next take her out of hibernation. No proper pics yet, just some I took at the dealer... (That won't upload from my phone)
Further info here :smileys: http://ducatiforum.co.uk/threads/exact-start-hi-cap-cables-range-and-forum-discounts.36761/
