Hi, I live in Derby and ride a 1098s which i'm considering swapping for a Panigale? Love the look and sound of my 1098s but I don't feel great on it and it can be mardy at times!
Welcome to the FunHouse. What did you own before your 1098S? Have you had your suspension set professionally/semi-professionally? What specifically do you dislike about it? Engine characteristics, handling? I believe a Pani will feel a little different to you current bike but it all depends upon what it is you are dissatisfied with. Someone will be along shortly to call you "Dave".
I had an R1 before that, I've always had jap bikes. Maybe it's the engine? The R1 seemed far easier! It's ground me down also due to a few mechanical issues, I don't have to much faith in it! I've just returned home from the Isle of man and whilst over there Sat in traffic the bike would just cut out without warning, it did it 7 times in a few hours. I just think what's next!
The cutting-out issue is something I experienced from new with my 999S (the predecessor of your bike). A word with a decent dealer (and a few quid) can sort this out, it's a fuelling issue most likely. It was a major irritation for me but was easily sorted. The R1 is a very capable bike but the 1098S is a completely different kettle of fish. If you can get it so that you feel like you can rely upon it, you may begin to gel big time - or you'll continue to dislike it, which means you're more of an in-line four guy, I guess! I would try to get some advice (here on the forum) over the mechanical niggles you hint at - the guys on here are pretty good with likely diagnosiseseses.
And wonderful eclectic cables too soon to improve starting and avoid sprag clutch wear but Panni's need them too so thought not to mention them
welcome -most of us get deflated at some stage - bit like opening a packet of Walkers crisps and finding the crisps don't even reach double figures
