Ducati ST3 1000 2007 — Specifications

The ST2 has retired, and now a three-valve engine powers Ducati’s sport touring line. For this ST3 1000, engineers took the Multistrada’s L-twin, equipped it with liquid cooling, and fitted it with three-valve cylinder heads. The result is a power increase to 92 horsepower, a good gain compared to the previous model, even though the torque, at 91 Nm, shows a slight restraint. The price at the time, around €11,200, clearly positioned it in the realm of demanding sport tourers.

The first obvious point is that Ducati listened to the criticisms. The new nose fairing is much more effective, finally protecting the rider properly beyond a simple city ride. The cockpit has been redesigned, with a comprehensive digital dashboard and adjustable controls, a sign that the brand wants to appeal beyond purists. Even the silencers are cleverly movable, to free up ground clearance when the cases remain in the garage. However, don’t be fooled, this ST3 has not denied its DNA. The 82.5 cm high seat imposes a certain stature, the turning radius remains generous, and the clutch requires a firm wrist. It is not comfortable in the city; it much prefers winding national roads, where its temperament can be expressed.

On the road, the twin reveals its character. It is more civilized than the engines of the SuperSport models of the time, but it retains that typically Ducati liveliness. Vibrations are present without being aggressive, and the rev range, especially after 6000 rpm, is frank and exhilarating. The chassis, with its trellis frame and Showa and Sachs suspension, offers reassuring stability and surprising agility for a motorcycle weighing 182 kg dry. It doesn’t have the muted comfort of a BMW R 1200 RT, but it brings a dose of passion and engagement that the German competition simply doesn’t offer.

So, who is this Ducati ST3 1000 for? It is the ideal sport touring motorcycle for those who refuse consensus. It demands more from its rider than an equivalent Japanese motorcycle, whether in terms of maintenance budget or attention at low speed. But in return, it offers a visceral riding experience, a raw connection with the road, and an inimitable style. Today, when we wonder what the price of a 2006 Ducati ST3 1000 is on the used market, it is often to find an alternative full of character to overly sanitized touring bikes. It is not perfect, but it has a soul, and that is priceless.