2001 Ducati SportTouring ST4 Owners Manual - Page 127

Cleaning the motorcycle To preserve the finish of metal parts and paintwork, wash and clean your motorcycle at regular intervals, anyway according to the road conditions you ride in. Use specific products only. Prefer biodegradable products. Avoid aggressive detergents or solvents. Important Do not wash your motorcycle right after use. When the motorcycle is still hot, water drops will evaporate faster and spot hot surfaces. Never clean the motorcycle using hot or high-pressure water jets. Cleaning the motorcycle with water cleaners may lead to seizure or severe failure of front fork, wheel hub assembly, electric system, front fork seals, air inlets or exhaust silencers and adversely affect the operation of motorcycle safety features. Clean off stubborn dirt or exceeding grease from engine parts using a degreasing agent. Be sure to avoid contact with drive parts (chain, sprockets, etc.) Rinse with warm water and dry all surfaces with chamois leather. Warning Braking performance may be impaired immediately after washing the motorcycle. Never grease or lubricate the brake discs. Loss of braking and further accidents may occur. Clean the discs with an oil-free solvent. 62 E Storing the bike away If the motorcycle is to be left unridden over long periods, it is advisable to carry out the following operations before storing it away: clean the motorcycle; undo the drain plug with its seal and empty the fuel tank; pour a few drops of engine oil into the cylinders through the spark plug seats, then crank the engine by hand a few times so a protective film of oil will spread on cylinder inner walls; place the motorcycle on the supplied service stand; remove the battery and keep it well charged and efficient. Battery should be checked and charged whenever the motorcycle has been left unridden for over a month; protect the motorcycle with a suitable canvas available from Ducati Spare Parts Department. This will protect paintwork and let condensate breathe out.