The best description of these bikes has to be a 916 in touring mode. The ST4 is based on the ST2, but substitutes the powerplant with an eight-valve, DOHC V-Twin from the 916. The extra four valves from the SuperSport boosted power by 30%. It's Ducati's answer to those that desire a balance between sporting superiority and touring capability.

For the ST2, the displacement has been bumped up to 944cc with a high compression ratio (10.2:1) for increased performance. The ST4 corrects many of the original ST2's flaws and features electronic fuel injection, a steel trestle frame, lower footpegs, and higher handlebars. The lockable hard luggage bags are excellent and provide adequate room to stuff things for short touring trips. And when you decide to ride one up in the twisties, the cans are adjustable for increased lean angle. A wonderful similarity to the 996 is Ducati's infamous stability and steering precision inspiring a great deal of confidense in its riders. This sport tourer allows its driver to to tear up those distant twisties and still have energy left for the ride back home. Simply stated, the ST4 puts the "sport" back in sport-tourer.

Overall, a fantastic Ducati that by far blows the competition away in almost every respect. Then again, for about $15 large it should obliterate the others out there! Here are the specifications.
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