Got my ST4S... Now what?

[Kierantaylor]

Got a fantastic deal on an 02ST4S. 4k paid to second owner for a cosmetically perfect red model with 11k miles. The bike runs like a top; only mod is CF cans and Barnett clutch.
Only records are a kevlar belt change at 6k and the clutch at 8k. PO said he was a mechanic and did all oil, fluid changes and valve checks.
I know most would say take it to a duc dealer for service but do I ask for a specific service interval or just have them go through the bike, check rockers, steering head, etc.

As the airbox is stock, should I just go K&N or is there another/better mod for that? I am not mechanically incompetent but all previous experience is from a 77 triumph (adjusting carbs, etc.)

I would prefer to give the dealer specific areas to inspect and actions to perform but don't know what the go to checklist would be (or whether I let them determine that in which case I'm afraid of handing a blank check over)

BEst
Kieran
PS- if there are any boston/NH riders out there interested in getting a ride in before the leaves and snow falls, please PM me

[Kierantaylor]

I should have mentioned that I have an order in for the DD light and would get a battery tender connection installed too.

[pgeller]

Nice find, Kieran! You will have a ball with that 4S!

If the belts were changed in the last 2-3 years, and its got clean oil, maybe just wait till the 12K to service it.

Not sure about the air filter - what's to gain? The K&N might flow a tad more air, but also flows more dirt. Without exhaust and FI mapping to match, you might not gain a thing.

Everyone I know uses the accessory power socket (left side under seat) to connect a tender. 2002 was fused for only 3A, but that's plenty for a BT. You can upgrade that wiring/fuse to support heavier loads (heated gear, coffee maker, leaf blower, etc) with a kit from Powerlet.

pg
DD

[erikrichard]

Actually, most here would recommend you buy a service manual and service the bike yourself. Forums like this generally attract enthusiasts, rather than simply owners.
That is a heck of a deal, for sure.

[SS904]

At 11K miles, you're 1K away from a major service. Belts, valve adjust, fuel and oil filters plus all the little (normal) stuff like head bearing check and the like. For now, with winter approaching us like a freaking freight train, just ride it. Pick up the Desmo times manual to see if you feel you might want to tackle this work yourself. Most of us here do our own. It isn't nearly as hard as you’ve probably heard. There are a few tools you may need, but nothing crazy. Read around this forum, there are things to look out for but nothing out of the ordinary for any bike.

Ducati Parts by Desmo Times - The Home of DIY Ducati Maintenance. Look under written and promotional for the DIY manual.

And also look into NEDOC.NEDOC.org Local owners club. Free to join, frequent events, great group of riders.

[SS904]

Oh, and welcome! One of the best Euro bike shows in the area is right in your back yard at Larz Anderson. NEDOC sets up there, normally right next to the Duc Truck. You've probably been, but just in case you haven't, look for it next Sept.

[what broke now]

If I was in that circumstance, I would check the obvious items and ride it until the weather makes it unpleasant. You will get a sense of the bike and how it performs. Even if you exceed the 12k service mileage by 30% doesn't mean the thing is going to grenade, that is just a benchmark. Winter is coming soon enough, that's a good time to work on it.

[mlukason]

"Got my ST4S... Now what?"

Ride it like you stole it!

[Kierantaylor]

vat a nice asylum dis is!
Thanks for the comments. I'll ride her like I stoler (which I almost did) and have a nice winter project to keep me downstairs ; )
Thanks all

[mcd]

Originally Posted by Kierantaylor

I should have mentioned that I have an order in for the DD light

One of your 1st moves sure was a good one. Paul makes one hell of a product and is an asset to this site.