[billhpowell]

I'm new to the site, and new to Ducati. The closest thing I've owned is an SV650, which I was totally dedicated to. I've wanted a Ducati since I first saw a Ducati cafe race style bike in the early 70's. I've already harvested information from the site, and appreciate the incredibly good nature of the contributers. I perform all service on my own bikes and cars, and your contributions have already helped.

A search of the "archive" forum has several claims of using belts made by BUCCI, for half the price of Ducati prices. I can find no such belts listed under any of the references, except for these models, "851/888/748/916/996." I read that the 996 and 916 engines in the ST4 have a belt that is a tooth off the length of the standard 996 and 916 engines, and are not interchangeable, so I'm wondering what I have missed.

So, is there a valid choice in ST4s belts, or am I stuck paying through the Ducati gouge program? (I've already unsuccessfully tried Desmotimes, Lockhart Phillips (130 for the pair), and San Diego House of Motorcycles.

By the way, I just took possesion of a Red ST4s from Minnesota, with history totally unknown. I'm doing the valves/belts prior to putting it on the road. If by any chance, you have dumped a red 2002 on the market in the last four months with about 17k miles, drop me a private email please. I really would like some history on this beast. (Speaking of dumped, this bike was has damage on the right side from being dumped!)

Thanks

 

[billhpowell]

No pictures, yet. Though fairly mechanically inclined, I'm worried about the body work this needs. (Scratches on right, only.) The original finish is super, and I doubt that I, or any of my contacts, can match it. Thanks for the feedback on the belts. I'll bite the bullit. (Or should I say let the bullit bite me!)