Really been spending some time, soul searching & research on finding a new bike to replace/ go with my 900sl. Noticed a local dealer had a couple of 999 for sale, both standard but some nice bits + good price. So thought I'd go & view to see if it rekindled the love I had for old 749 that was sold in 2010. Like meeting a old ex it was ok & I'd probably would still hop on board, but even the thought of 136bhp & look didn't get me excited like I'd hoped. Think I've turned me into a number plaque, limited edition snob, need to find a 998 to oggle next or maybe late model 851....if that don't work it going to get VERY expensive & superlight will get probably get sacrificed.
Goat, the thread titled left me deeply troubled. Glad to see it's about Ducatis. I would love an 851. I would also love a 906/907. Christmas soon, folks. No pressure!
IMO a 999 is a very special thing... they ride in a way that's simple and honest, like the SL, and they're charismatic. My own 999s is going nowhere. I'm in the process of selling up my 900SSk 750SS and YBR125 Custom to make way for the fat-cheeked charm of an early 851 Strada, so I certainly understand the appeal of those. Of the modern stock; I've ridden Panigales and 1198s and TBH they're very impressive, but not that engaging if you're more into the ride than the timings. The 999 delivers a perfect glob of power to make the rear end squirm and dick about coming out of a bend, getting on the power soonest is where the fun is, and it's a hoot getting it right or wrong. That said, don't discount a smaller, pluckier ride. A 748 lets you take crazy liberties, it's like a 250 in terms of you getting away with piling into corners at silly speeds, knowing you can carry it. Those 748s have a glint in their eye, a bit like the SL you already know and love... let's not underplay the capabilities of the SL, as mine has been more than happy to keep a 916 and an MV clinging onto its coat-tails this year. It mightn't have outright grunt on its side but knows how to make the best of what it has. No matter what you have though, more than a 749 but even more manners and precision than (R aside) those middleweight bikes deliver, a 999 will egg you on... you'll feel more willing to push your luck, and more like you've still got an ace up your sleeve... 999 FTW IMO.
