Moving Off; Braking - Ducati DESMOSEDICI RR Owner's Manual

Moving off

1) Disengage the clutch squeezing the control lever.
2) Push down on gear change lever sharply with the tip of
your foot to engage the first gear.
3) Speed up engine, by turning the throttle twistgrip and
slightly releasing the clutch lever at the same time; the
motorcycle will start moving off.
4) Let go of clutch lever and speed up.
5) To shift up, close the throttle to slow down engine,
disengage the clutch, lift the gear change lever and let go of
clutch lever.
E
To shift down, release the twistgrip, pull the clutch control
lever, shortly speed up to help gears synchronise, shift down
and release the clutch.
The controls should be used correctly and timely: when
riding uphill do not hesitate to shift down as soon as the
motorcycle tends to slow down, so you will avoid stressing
the engine and the motorcycle abnormally.
Important
Avoid harsh accelerations, as this may lead to misfiring
and transmission snatching. The clutch lever should not be
pulled longer than necessary after gear is engaged, or friction
parts may overheat and wear out.
62

Braking

Slow down in time, shift down to engine-brake first and then
brake applying both brakes. Pull the clutch lever before
stopping the motorcycle, to avoid sudden engine stop.
Warning
Use both brake lever and pedal for effective braking.
Using only one of the brakes will give you less braking
power.
Never use brake controls harshly or violently or you may lock
the wheels and lose control of the motorcycle.
When riding in the rain or on slippery surfaces, braking will
become less effective. Always use the brakes very gently
and carefully when riding under these conditions. Any
sudden manoeuvres may lead to loss of control. When
tackling long, high-gradient downhill road tracts, shift down
gears to use engine braking. Apply one brake at a time and
use brakes sparingly. Keeping the brakes applied all the time
would cause the friction material to overheat and reduce
braking power dangerously. Underinflated or overinflated
tyres reduce braking efficiency, handling accuracy and
stability in a bend.