749s from 2004 does have the tapered valve collets like 749r that require the head to be removed if closing shims need changing-but Ducati are expecting double the intervals for any adjustments so the dealer is quoting a worst case scenario and its most unlikely that it would be the full amount quoted

Do what I do and it can save you a few bucks here and there. On my 749s, I take it to the dealer and request valves and belts only...not a 6,000 mile or 12,000 mile service. Everything else is straight foward oil change and visual checks. Give or take a loose nut or chain adjustment here and there. If the fuel system needs servicing (TPS reset, balance T/B's, idle mixture, etc...) request that separately as well. A fuel system service at my shop is like an hours labour and that's it. I forgot the actual quote but valves & belts only on my bike was a couple hundred dollars (US) cheaper than a standard , full 6,000 mile service. Just an idea.

thx for all the advice,
but really puts me off buying the bike after i learn off the maintenance cost.

That's Ducatis for ya!

r models get belt change after 2 years or 12k
mine didn't have its changed at first year service back in June! phew!
:D

servicing costs aren't that much higher when you take into account that most inline jap bikes need servicing more often i.e. 4 or 4.5k:eureka:

Chillo,

How much did you get stung for your 1 year service, mine is going in today for its 1 year check up.

If they do not change the belts how the hell do they justify the prices for an 'oil change' and check over ?

got stung £559! but that did include £120 for new front brake pads:barfy::sniff:

£120 for brake pads !!!!!

My slipper clutch and engine braking is going to be used more severely if that is the price of pads. ( Or remove the front brake lever )

So about £440 for the service, I still cannot see how they justify the prices though, did the bike 'feel' any different when you got it back ?

749S
 

Had my first service at 600 miles and was charged £244, bloody expensive for an oil change + filter and a few other minor bits.

[Edited on 19-9-2005 by itexuk]

Yeh itexuk and that was your 'free' service the one that is meant to be cheap, although it was from my dealer they only charge for parts ( £43)