When did the red key start?

[williamj]

What year did Ducati start with the red key? I was going to go look at a 99 748 and he hadn't heard of the red key. If it doesn't have it and needs it I won't even look. But I am not sure if they even had it in 99.

Any help would be great.

Thanks Jami

[Shez748]

I'd Like to know that myself.

[eviltwin]

'02?

[williamj]

Just got off the phone with BCM Ducati in NH. He thinks they started in 03 but 99 would definitely not have one.

[ducati2242]

my 2001 st4s has got one

[DucNoh]

my 2000 748 does not have a red key. i did buy it used, but the previous owner gave me everything he got with the bike. i read through the manual once, and i don't remember it mentioning the red key

[safetyfish]

No red key on my 2002 model 998. It alreay has the new ECU on it, but still has an analogue speedo and rev counter. If it has the digital display then I think it has the red key.... bunt dont quote me on that.
SF

[cpageIII]

I actually bought an 01' 748 brand new from the dealer in 07'. They said it was a left over. It did not come with a "red key". I inquired about it because at the Superbike races at Infineon Raceway at the Ducati tent, they were no longer accepting red keys as proof of ownership to get into the hospitality tent.

[Andrew]

Originally Posted by williamj

What year did Ducati start with the red key? I was going to go look at a 99 748 and he hadn't heard of the red key. If it doesn't have it and needs it I won't even look. But I am not sure if they even had it in 99.

Any help would be great.

Thanks Jami

The RED Key was introduced with the 999 and then followed in the 749. The 916/996/998 never had red keys neither did the 748. The red key functionality is controlled in the instrument panel introduced with the 999.

Yes the 998 ECU is the same as the 999 unit. On the 999 the key sends a signal to the instrument panel which determines if the key is correct and then the instrument sends a signal to the ECU to activate the bike. As the older 916/996/998 and 748 bikes don't have the newer instrument panel they also don't have the immobiliser.

Andrew...

[spotcom]

Does the 848 have a red key? I can't remember getting one - I have two black keys.