2005 Ducati 749 Review

The 2005 Ducati 749 is the third and penultimate model year of the sports bike that Italian manufacturer Ducati produced from 2003 to 2006. For the 2005 model year, the 749 – also known as the ""seven-four-nine"" – received four models. They consist of the regular version (749 Base); 749 Dark, a less expensive version of the Base model that made its debut that year; the sporty 749S and the racing-oriented 749R. Ducati set the manufacturer""s suggested retail prices for the four models at $13,495, $11,995, $14,795 and $21,995, respectively.

Although each 2005 Ducati 749 is powered by a four-stroke liquid-cooled L-twin (two-cylinder) Testastretta engine, most of its specs differ depending on model. The engine on the 749 Dark and 749 Base generates 108 horsepower at 10,000 revolutions per minute (RPM) and 59 pounds-feet (lb-ft) of torque at 8,500 RPM. The one on the 749S and 749 R produce 116 horsepower at 10,500 RPM and 61 lb-ft at 8,500 RPM. Each engine has eight intake valves. However, the ones on the 749R are larger, and the engine has a longer bore and shorter stroke to maximize its racing abilities. While the number ""749"" stands for the displacement of the engine measured in cubic centimeters (cc), only the one on the 749R actually displaces at 749 cc; the engine on the other trims displace at 748 cc.

Each engine on the 2005 Ducati 749 is fueled by a 54-millimeter Marelli fuel injector and is ignited by an electric starter on the bike. Paired with the engine is a six-speed manual transmission. A 4.8-gallon (18.3-liter) gas tank goes on the 749R model; the others have a peak fuel capacity of 4.1 gallons (15.5 l).

Made of a solid steel frame and covered in sharp-edged plastic with a rear spoiler to give it an aerodynamic feel and look, the 2005 Ducati 749 sports a Matte Black color finish. The digital dashboard at the front of the bike is loaded: with a clock, tachometer, trip odometer, lap timer, shift light, speedometer, service reminder indicator, temperature, and fuel level warning lights. Seating is restricted to the driver on the 749S and 749R trims; two people can sit on the 749 Dark and 749 Base. Other standard features on the 2005 Ducati 749 include an engine immobilizer for the bike""s security and a tinted windshield for warding off wind and flying debris.

The 2005 Ducati 749 is basically a less powerful version of the 2005 Ducati 999, so it offers what the latter has: great performance and impressive styling. For even more engine power, though, it is recommended that you go for the 749S or 749R, especially the latter for you are a racing fanatic.