I would like some experience based input on the base model 1299. Currently, I'm riding an XDiavel S but made the mistake of testing a Panigale 959 for a few days. Man, the Panigale is awesome. I rode it on twisty back roads, on the highway, in the city and sat in traffic. It was really great to be able to test all these different conditions after reading reviews about people saying how it has flaws in various departments. The biggest issue, I experienced which has been mentioned broadly, was the heat issue. But for me that's not a problem since I ride in leathers. The 959 is great in my experience. However, I'd like a bit more power than what the 959 can provide. While the 959 has plenty of speed, I'd like some more 'oomph' - and I'm guessing the 1299 will do that. Here's my question: The base model is within my budget. The S is not. Some people mention how the S model is needed for commute since it means riding on uneven surface etc. Also, some say that the chassis is so stiff so that you need to make up for that in suspension. A problem which some say requires new suspension all together for riding on road and track. Is that your experience? Would the base model be fine as a daily commuter on uneven roads or should I wait another year and save up for an S model? Cheers Rex
Not my experience at all. I commute on mine daily and it's great at it. The base model suspension is really good when you set it up. I can change it manually in about 90 seconds If I want it really soft. I've set mine up and not touched it for months now. Personally I would save the £4500 and use it for a trackbike. Some on commuting in vid below. Another video is going up Monday. Lots on suspension.
Hi Rex I have the standard model and commute on it myself. I tried the S model but didn't find the electronic suspension settings flexible enough to cater for my weight - 65kgs. I actually found the standard model a better ride. Personally I think the power delivery is more of an issue commuting than the suspension. Its a bit lumpy in traffic and awkward on and off the throttle below 30mph. Ive got used to it now so its fine, but took a couple of months. cheers -Pete
the bike is great apart from as mentioned is lumpy through slow traffic. the 899 was and guess the 959 is better for heavy traffic. I ride my 1299 through towns but no way through a city in my view would get on my nerves.
I picked up an ohlins for the rear from a 1199. forks are fine. Once set up the suspension is great and I'm 100kgs when on the bike. There is plenty of oomph. I took the bike out for a relaxed ride and don't think I left 3rd gear for about 20 miles of twisties. As mentioned under 30 the bike is not as happy, but you do get used to it and it is manageable.
The Xdiavel is a powerful bike, I'm not surprised you felt the 959 was a little lacking. However....I test rode an xdiavel for 30 mins whilst my 1299 was in for service. The xdiavel felt very powerful, torque every where and I actually thought I might need to buy one after the ride. When my 1299 was finished, I rode off and I can assure you that the 1299 is significantly stronger than even the xdiavel. I specifically remember thinking 'wow this is what power really feels like' on my first throttle opening of that ride. Saying that, I found it damn hard work riding through traffic or any extensive town stop/start riding. :sunglasses:
I agree, the 1299 suspension is good quality, the best thing to do would be what Belter has suggested, get the suspension set up for the kind of riding you want to do. Previous to my 1299s I had an 899, the Ducati dealer set up the suspension for me to make it a comfortable plush ride for general commuting, the dealer then provided me with a stiffer set up for fast riding on road & track, again agreeing with Belter once your familiar with your suspension making the adjustments between settings is quick & easy. I do have the 1299s with the electric Ohlins, I really like it & rate it highly. It is very quick & easy to change between settings, feels totally planted with lots of feedback but it isn't essential, if your budget doesn't quite stretch you will still be more than happy with dialled in suspension settings on the 1299. Yes the 1299 is a sports bike with a lot of power and a big L twin which isn't the happiest going slowly through town but like Pete said, you get used to the character and adjust, it's a hell of a lot smoother than the 1199. Belter put a good YouTube video up about adjusting the engine settings to get a different response for different situations which I found really helpful.
