Anyone else have a junk ST3 ????? - Ducati.ms

Ducati-Harley · Aug 9th, 2007, 5:16 pm

Hi! I purchased a new 2007 ST3s Jan 07.
Here's a list of the roblems I am having with this bike

1. Constant Stalling - fixed after 4 weeks and 3 attempts in the shop.
2. O2 sensor - fried since "Day One".
3. Constant smell of gasoline while riding.
4. Horn ... Doesn't work all the time
5. Mirror .. wiped it with Windex --- it fell off!!! Replaced under warranty
6. Just Last night (8-8-07) - Rear brakes just suddenly stopped working!! .

What a piece of S**t !!!!!!

In a world of robotic manufactoring... how can the Italians let this happen???

(PS: I was born in Italy)

As an attorney - it already qualifies under the Lemon Law in my state (PA), so I think I'm going to pull the trigger on this one. I know it is a relatively cheap bike to buy new ($12,500), but this is getting ridiculous. I have 3 other motorcycles, and combined over the last 2 years I've had no problems with any of them (Harley, BMW, FZ1).

Oh well - venting session is over... thanks for listening!

John · Aug 9th, 2007, 6:52 pm

I'm not an ST owner, but I think your engine problems are addressed in another thread here; specifically the gas smell and stalling/surging with the ST3. Unfortunately I understand your frustration, no argument there. However, too bad your bike is acting up and you can't experience the potential others rave about in regards to the ST Ducati.

motocrotts · Aug 9th, 2007, 7:56 pm

Sorry to hear of your dilemma. My 07 ST3S has been trouble free except for one shorted battery. I have the DP kit on mine, still it only had a slight surge between 3 and 4K rpm's when it was stock. I have over 5K miles on her now and I must say it's the most perfect running motorcycle I have ever owned. I suggest you take it to another dealer who knows how to work on it. Don't feel bad, even in it's current state of dis-repair it's better than ANY Harley.

wfo · Aug 9th, 2007, 8:04 pm

Don't put Windex on mirrors, car windshields, etc. For those that wonder why their good wiper blades kinda smear their windshields in the rain, instead of wiping cleanly, suspect Windex. A proper application of Rain-X will usually remove the Windex and allow you to see again.

Are you certain you're latching the gas cap completely closed? (it has happened before that someone didn't; Remove the key before the cap is fully latched, push down and listen for the latch to "snap" shut.)

**milznmilz** · Aug 9th, 2007, 9:14 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by wfo

Are you certain you're latching the gas cap completely closed? (it has happened before that someone didn't; Remove the key before the cap is fully latched, push down and listen for the latch to "snap" shut.)

Yeah......that would be me

It's true: When you close the cap on an ST3, (maybe other models too), just press the cap with a finger and you'll hear it 'click'....no click, and on your first turn you'll be wearing gas on your leathers.

The litany of other mechanical woes sound like a really bad set-up from the dealership. How good are the wrenches at your dealer? Between the two mechanics at TT Motocycles/ Ducati-MV here in MI, they've got over 70 years experience, and my 05 ST3 has been flawless from day one. It's easily the best sport touring bike I've ever owned.

All the problems you mentioned (stalling/surging/o2 sensors) have been written about here, and can be remedied by experienced mechanics. Whatever you do, don't give up on Ducati.....there's just too many of us livin' the dream to make a case against Ducatis as a whole. Good luck.

driven · Aug 9th, 2007, 9:43 pm

Wow. This is scaring the crap outta me on a potential deal I made on an '04... Better do some more research I guess!

Ducati-Harley · Aug 9th, 2007, 10:45 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by driven

Wow. This is scaring the crap outta me on a potential deal I made on an '04... Better do some more research I guess!

Hey Driven - I shouldn't have given the impression that Ducati makes bad motorcycles. I was just mad because I have one that needs to be sorted out. And, believe it or not, if I had to have only one bike, it would be a Ducati.

One thing, even with my rant that started this, Ducati makes bikes that really grow on you - they have real personalities. The exhaust growl, the turns, even the vibration from the Desmo when the bike is telling you didn't shift right, help you really bond with the bike. Ducati owners are usually lifetime owners.

Plus it's hard to beat the Italian designers when it comes to style and good looking machinery.

So - I would make the deal on the '04. If it has had any problems, I'm sure they were corrected by now. If you want to feel safer, I've seen aftermarket extended warranties that are really good and not that expensive.

Good Luck!

deuxeasy · Aug 9th, 2007, 10:54 pm

06 st3. No trouble of any sort from day one.Never surged farted or ran roughly.Had the D.P. kit installed and, after half an hour of sorting, what was once a great bike became a stunning, ripping, fighter-bomber that I'm proud to ride.A spiritual transportation device like none I have ever owned. The single best decision I have ever made.I could easily go on and introduce a few superlatives but I think I have made myself clear.