Ducati Monster Forum

So i love seeing all the inner workings of our bikes.. like the dry clutch spinning. But I was curious why it is only the 2 valvers that ride coverlessly and even have special parts to bling their cam belts up while the desmoquattros hide them.. I think I've only seen a couple s*r without their covers.. Is there any particular reason NOT to take the covers off?  ???

A lot of guys will say no.
I will say, use logic and common sense.
They are covered from the factory for a reason, right?
Not to say that can't go bad inside the covers, but it seems that stories of shagged belts always involve open covers...
Not to mention that guy that got his finger stuck in a belt, jumped a couple teeth, and had is bike running like crap because of it...

I've also heard stories of older bikes tossing belts because the rubber weatherstrip between the motor and belt covers would break, and get sucked into the pullies, and bam. No more motor...

The inner workings ARE cool...
But they are INNER workings...

I haven't used belt covers on any of my, or customer's bikes in about 8 years. Never had a problem, but all my experience has been with 2V motors. There are a couple of companies that make really cool spider covers for the pullies themselves so you can still see everything go around. I forget the maker's names, but I'm sure a few people on the list have them.

There's going to be a lot of varying experience on this, i'm sure.
I myself, personally, have none.
I think there are a lot of variables that can effect your belts and their condition.
Heat, water, debris, TENSION...
Alot of this stuff can depend on where your are geographically.
Just be careful where your sticking your fingers ;D

Ran mine with no belts for the last 4 years and had to replace two of the rollers that were beginning to seize. I rode in every imaginable weather on a frequent basis however.

Yea, I went with my modified covers (and without for a while and it really wasn't good for the rollers.  I also notices some corrosion on those little rectangular covers (not sure what they are).  I am confident they would get that way covered or uncovered, but when covered, at least they are hidden.  I think that the weather you ride in should be part of your decision.  All said and done, I like my carbon covers. 

I think it's mainly because the 4Valve bikes don't look that []sleek[/i] without covers...

I've heard a bad story as well, but that being said, I am looking at the Rizomas. You get to look and still have protection. Just cuz she says she cant' have kids doesn't mean you should walk in the rain with-out a shovel.

I hear you man.  ???

I like the way you think, mind if I use that?  [moto]

I wouldn't suggest it.  Just had one helluva weird experience this weekend, and was glad I had most everything covered (near tornado weather patterns).  Even if you live in dusty /dry areas, the crosswinds pick up bits and pieces that I wouldn't want in the gears and belts.

My 2 pesos, though.