Jack Digan

Air Filters, Forks, and a Whole Lot of Swearing — Ducati Desert Sled Prep for the DGR

Monday 12th May 2025

 

With the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride coming up, I decided it was the perfect time to knock out some maintenance on the Desert Sled. One of my front forks had started leaking and was already off getting fixed, so I figured, "Why not change the air filter while I’m at it? Should be easy with half the front end already apart."

Famous last words.

What I thought would be a simple air filter swap turned into a 4-hour wrenching odyssey. The tank stayed on, but getting to the air box meant removing the front mudguard and then wrestling with a mess of stubborn, awkwardly placed bolts—seriously, Ducati must’ve had a laugh designing these. Every fastener felt like it was positioned by someone who’s never had to actually service the bike.

When I finally cracked open the air box, I was greeted by a mini Sahara. Sand everywhere. The OEM filter looked absolutely shot—definitely overdue for retirement. I swapped it out for a fresh K&N air filter and tossed in two new spark plugs while I was elbow-deep.

Despite the hassle, the bike should be breathing easier now—and just in time for the DGR. Here’s hoping the ride goes smoother than this “simple” bit of maintenance.

Have you ever opened a small job on your bike, only to find yourself in a full-scale teardown?

I'm Riding for Men's Health in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride

Tuesday 6th May 2025 On Sunday the 18th of May 2025, I'm riding in The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride with fellow men and women across the globe to raise funds and awareness for prostate cancer and men's mental health on behalf of Movember. Men die on average 6 years earlier than women and for largely preventable reasons. The number of men that are suffering is growing, and we need to do something about that. So, before I press my tweed and polish my boots, I'm asking you to join me in raising funds and awareness for these causes by donating what you can for this meaningful cause and to help the men we love, live happier and healthier lives.