Ducati Sporting Club UK > Model Specific - Discussion, Technical Problems and Help > 998 / 996 / 916 / 748 > questioin on idle sound

[Vlud]

Just went and looked at the 996 S i'm still thinking about buying. Havent spent much time around Ducati's yet but had a question about idle on these v twins. It sounded like a rough idle, almost like a harley, ya know kinda had that low lope sound. Is this normal?

[ziggi]

Ah vlud - you really have been riding inline jap fours for a while haven't you

Your next question will be about the bag of spanners left in the clutch area.

Seriously, that's how they sound, you wait 'til it's on full chat though. And a lower tickover speed is a good thing. Probably means it's setup reasonably well.

thump, thump, thump, thump, thump, thump, thump ....

luuuuurvely ......

[Vlud]

Thanks guys, that sums it up quite well, and yes, been riding Jap bikes for about 14 years now, and never really been up close to a Ducati. Want to give them a try, because they are way rare in this part of the US and i just love the prestige that goes with them. I knew the sound was gonna be different, but i was amazed at how much that difference was At first i didnt like it, but it really grew on me fast listening to it idle. I think i really started liking it because it was something "different". You guys are so helpful on this site, I'm so glad i joined it. Should have the bike next week, weather permitting of course, since it could still snow a ton here.

[marksduc748]

ah ah only worry when it goes quiet.

[Vlud]

[Nigel C]

get yourself an open clutch cover as well then you WILL be surprised at the noise

[Vlud]

I'm sure that does make it even louder, but i dont think i can even use those. My driveway is gravel and i'm not sure if that dust will hurt the clutch or not.

[uncle porry]

hit the kill switch when you get home, then push it up the gravel path...the extra noise of an open cover will be worth it.....

[Vlud]

I could always do that. So, do you guys think I'll have to stick with the closed cover, since my driveway is gravel, or isnt the dust going to hurt the clutch as much as i think it will?