Another from Boulder, CO

[DucHunt]

Hi,

Aram Malinich
Boulder, CO. 
2003 Ducati Monster 800 sie

My first experience with motorcycles was just this May, taking the MSF beginner course, so I've only been riding for about 6 weeks but it has been great. 

I wasn't going for so much bike right away, but it was a heck of a deal.  $3700 for a bike with only 3400 miles.  I've already got her passed 4k.  Pretty much been riding this bike everywhere as I've used my car 3 times since I got it.  I love the 800.

Look forward to meeting other duc owners in the area.

-Aram

[Slide Panda]

Very clean 800 there.

So if you didn't know already, the cam drive belts on Duc are spec'd to be replaced at two years from install, or 12k miles. Whichever comes first. Obviously, 12 isn't an issue, but age might be. If you're not sure they have been replaced relatively recently, you'll want to get on that.

If you're mechanically apt, its and easy DIY job and will run about $80 in parts for the belts. If you don't have the capability or mind to take it on, you'll probably pay an hours labor + parts at a shop.

[DucHunt]

Very clean 800 there.

So if you didn't know already, the cam drive belts on Duc are spec'd to be replaced at two years from install, or 12k miles. Whichever comes first. Obviously, 12 isn't an issue, but age might be. If you're not sure they have been replaced relatively recently, you'll want to get on that.

If you're mechanically apt, its and easy DIY job and will run about $80 in parts for the belts. If you don't have the capability or mind to take it on, you'll probably pay an hours labor + parts at a shop.

That was definitely one of my concerns, so I had Boulder Motorsports do an oil change, change the belts and give it a general lookover.  I could have done that myself, but I really wanted to see if they'd find anything else. Nothing else was needed at the time. I'll probably need to do the first valve adjustment sometime in the fall, but I may try to do that myself if I plan appropriately and do enough research.

[BerettaMato]

Very nice bike. Funny thing is that almost the same look I am trying to get out of mine. Love the 70's logo. We will definitely have to hook up and go riding. I am just waiting for my Shoei Matte Black RF1100 to show up. I got a steal on it for $285 brand new but it shipping from Alaska ground. Still need to find a jacket.

[BerettaMato]

I am going to do my my belts and valve's myself as well. I will let you know when and you can help and learn if you want to. I am buying some of the tools needed so you can borrow them when its time.

Sorry about the double post you posted while i was typing LOL.

[DucHunt]

Great, I'd love to help (and borrow tools occasionally).  I have the Desmodue maintenance guide (2 valve) on order from Desmo Times and it should be here any day.

Oddly enough, I have a Shoei Qwest...in matte black. 

[Curmudgeon]

Very nice bike. Funny thing is that almost the same look I am trying to get out of mine. Love the 70's logo.

70's???!!!  Try 80's, one of the best times for Ducati. 

[BerettaMato]

1978 Ducati 900SS had that logo but yes your right Ducati calls it there 80's style. I just bought a Ducati 80's Leather Jacket by Dainese with same logo.

[BerettaMato]

Had a great ride with you and cant wait till next time. Hope we can get some more guys in the forum to go next time.