I have an itch that I might be able to scratch later this year. I have a couple of older Ducati bikes at the moment, an M900 Monster and 900SS, both air cooled Carbies, but really fancy something newer as well. I have had newer bikes in the past but have been enjoying my older stuff for a while. It looks like a 1098 or 1198 will be where I'm at price wise, but I've no idea what I'm looking at. Is there an idiots guide to the difference between a 1098 and 1098S for example? Unfortunately I've not got the cash yet, otherwise I'd be looking at the 1198 Timmywimmywoo is selling. Thanks Nasher
Usually, S means Ohlins suspension and forged wheels with maybe, a smattering of bling. Early 1098’s gained a reputation for lunching gearboxes and the odd crank. Certainly the 1198 seemed to address most of the weaknesses in the 1098 but not as many were sold so tend to be a bit harder to find. If you have an option on an 1198, I don’t think you will be disappointed. Andy
So by by 'Base' is that non-'S' Is there any other spec than 1198 and 1198S? Shakeys Dad, it's looking like @November before I'll be in a position to buy. Nasher
I'm not actively trying to sell it, just not using it. Could do with the space but not in a rush. Took me a long time to to find a good one
I'm not sure it is better in the looks department. Looks more like a generic Japanese bike than the 1198. Nasher
I had the 1098 Street Fighter and now own the 1198, the engine on the 1198 is smoother and heaps more powerful. Not just more powerful, but more manageable too, going through a 30mph is way easier on the 1198, open it up and it's wonderfully savage and blisteringly addictive too. I would say 1198. Mine is the base model (I do wonder how much better Ohlins would be on the road) but very happy with the bike. I actually can't see any other bike giving you this feeling.
my pick would be a 1198S, the reality is that there is probably £500 difference between that and a 1098 and it's a more developed package. The wheels etc on the 1198s are obv forged like the 1098s but they are beautiful!
Thanks all. Considering what I've been riding for the last few years, and the last newer bikes I rode, the very basic spec 1098 will be a massive step up for me. On the other hand of course I do want something developed as much as possible with regard to design and reliability. It will depend on what's around when I have the cash together in a couple of months or so, but a 1198S appears to fit the bill. Nasher.
