I have previously owned a 900SS and 916 and currently own an ST4S, which I still love but she will have to go as I am looking for a change. I am thinking about a 1200 Multi. I have sat on a few but still need to ride one before I buy. I have also read some previous threads on this forum. I love the raw grunt of the 996 with the dry clutch so am thinking the DVT might be a bit sane for me. I am used to Ohlins suspension and don't like gadgets - I know I will have to put up with some on the Multi. Therefore, my thinking is a 2013/2014 (pre DVT), ideally a Pikes Peak just because they look great, have the 3 spoke Marchesini wheels, Termi exhaust and carbon bits. The problem is justifying the cost! I know some people put sticker kits on a red S model. I would like to know any common issues I should be looking out for with these bikes and also any advice welcome on what I might expect from the different models - engine / suspension etc. I note that some people replace the exhaust for a free flowing one - even if its a Termi. Is that to get rid of the Cat? It would also be good to know the difference between the Sachs Skyhook suspension and non skyhook options. I quite fancy trying the Skyhook but have had no issues with the Ohlins, although I have had it set up with a different rated spring by a local specialist. I hope to put my ST4S up for sale in the next month or so and find a replacement soon after. I look forward to some good advice!
I got 1200s tourings 2014 had it from new . Issues one sensor failure the only time it left me stranded .was recovered and a cheap fix . Exhaust value gets stuck . I didnt get a error code with mine. Bypass kit fitted. Heated grips are broke. Not cheap if you want genuine ducati fix. I've left it. Centre stand rubber stop decay then makes a racket cheap fix. Desmo service are expensive. I use a Ducati indie save a bomb. Still on original battery .the bike is brilliant. In sports mode its fast and handles great. I use touring mode most great petrol return. Test rode dvt and 1260 and found them not as engaging and not a step up . Waiting to test ride v4. but I'll keep mine for now love it.
Thanks for your reply. I assume if a sensor is faulty it will show up as a fault code on the dash? Are faulty sensors a regular issue on these bikes? Also, how would I know if an exhaust valve was stuck, would it be obvious to hear? Heated grips no problem I would replace with aftermarket set. Interesting re your comments on the DVT which is what I thought might be the case, especially if you have come from more old school Duke's.
Im glad you had a read through some of the many threads on this subject to help you... However you will probably have ended up with a huge number of conflicting opinions. But once you get the chance the best thing is to test ride a few, good luck! Personally I like the option of the skyhook suspension, it was an improvement on the DVT though over the first models. Very helpful When riding with a pillion of luggage and you feel the difference in the different modes. I’m on my third one and had a few issues but mostly ok. The exhaust valve is an easy fix. Just look for a bike with a good service history and preferably low mileage. Some kind of warranty is good but probably not available on a bike of the age you mentioned.
I have read through a couple of good threads on here already. Some people mention the twin spark engine, which one are they referring to? Also, not sure of the merits of the Sachs Skyhook against other options? Budget, well if a PP it would have to be around 8k but that is a lot more than I have ever spent on a bike! Even before this lockdown its hard to find a 1200 of the right year (pre DVT) to test ride so I hope a few more will come up for sale soon.
Sorry I just updated my post! Twin spark are the second S models sold pre DVT, the early ones are single spark.
LED headlights were standard also on the pikes peak from that year which were much better than the 1200s units, PP also got lots more carbon and lighter wheels
Thanks for the replies. This does seem to lead me towards the 2013/2014 PP as I thought. Any downsides apart from the price?
What about mileage? I am thinking sub 20k but more of a gut feeling. Also, do they run better on certain tyres?
I’ve got a ‘13 1200s touring, bought it a year ago and love it but not used it as much as I’d have liked, hopefully more this year? Had a maf sensor fault, engine warning light and poor fueling and popping/backfire on tick over. You can get free software for the pre DVT model which you can use to read and reset faults and reset service lights should you want to do your own servicing. I used it to find out the maf fault, ordered new sensor (£80) and fixed myself. You just get an engine fault warning, you need the software and leads to plug into the ECU to find out what it is. Heated grips are nuclear, never used higher than min, set to max on test ride and melted gloves! Apparently the DVT models grips are a bit lack lustre? I think for 13-14 they dropped the Ohlins altogether in favour of skyhook, inc on the PP model, also got led headlights, twin spark engine. The exhaust valve is a common issue, easiest thing to do is remove the heat shield (3 bolts) and you can see the valve, check it opens and closes on start up, or just open manually and make sure it snaps back, a liberal spraying of WD keeps it slick. Signs of a stuck one is lumpy running / lack of power on acceleration. Have not ridden a DVT but thought sitting on one that it felt less top heavy and a little lower/narrower?
Thanks Ackers, software sounds good as I will do all basic servicing myself. Do you have any experience with Ohlins v Sachs Skyhook? What is a maf sensor BTW?
My normal riding is on the road, two up mostly with and without luggage. So all I normally do is get the rear shock set up for the different weight options and use the remote adjuster - nothing fancier than that. I assume the Skyhook would adjust automatically.
