I was looking for a 916 for a long time, i kind of got to thinking right 998 as you say testastretta motor and all that, and as everything seemed to be miles from me(southampton) it became frustrating and annoying at the same time!! Then out of the blue a 996 came up just 14 miles from me rung him immediately and it's now mine, full service history, full termi pipes with eprom chip, 15,000 miles and recent desmo service(over £1,200). I love it, patience(i don't do patience but had no choice) and a gut feeling about something seems to work for me with my choice of bikes(i have a 900ss ie, just clocked over 50,000 mile)in the past, good luck with your choice.
Congratulations - it sounds as if you have bagged a winner there. I am finding myself drawn to the 996, as a balance between newer bike, availability and price. We shall see.... I will (try and) stay patient and do let us know how you get on with your 996.
Cheers, it's all good at the moment and as soon as the weather gets better i might get to do a good and proper ride out on it, forecast is thunder storms todaybut looking good for next week at the mo, 996 updates will happen.
I love the 996 bikes , the desmo motor is a but more raw in um. Nothing wrong with the 998 but I just prefer the 996 personally.
I've not had the pleasure of riding a 998 but like you say raw, i get that too and on my 900ss ie, it's ALIVE!!!!
