What I mean is, you could probably buy a 1098R for not much more money right now (although not from a dealer, I admit) as seen by the one that went for £12,750 last week. The SP is an S with a few nice bits on it. If the SP was cheaper, then there is a decision to be made. I'm just saying what I would do, although I would say that, having the 'R'. It's your money buddy.
The larger tank is the only useful extra. The ohlins are no better than the showa once set up properly, the QS is about as much use as a chocolate teapot and will likely murder your gearbox and the traction control is basic and rough. I'd buy a base 1198 all day long. Awesome engine. Or the 1098R. I miss my old 1198, i really do.
And here you go, probably a far safer option that the other one... http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Ducati-11...098346?hash=item2a8cb1f16a:g:ynIAAOSw0bJZro-G
Just my two pence worth... If you were to purchase a base model 1198, you would bag yourself an absolutely awesome bike that is stunning to look at and save yourself a few ££££'s potentially... I'm not sure if anyone else agrees, but... I believe the 1198's pretty much bottomed out the depreciation curve 12-18 months ago, they are currently modestly underrated, the base model 1198 was the last properly analogue Superbike that Ducati will ever produce (no fancy electronic rider aids) and although not limited in production numbers - its not very often you see one on the road... Given a few years, this combination of points could prove to see the 1198 base model quite sought after. I may be wrong in my thinking, but its a very rewarding bike to ride when you get one in to the groove and I absolutely love mine. This is why I've decided she's a keeper and despite pulling the trigger on a more modern Superbike recently, the 1198 is staying If my thinking is way off the mark, it will still put a bigger grin on my face each time it gets ridden than money sat in the bank!
@buzz 1198 Base Model just been listed on here by @Cupid Stunt which may be of interest to you... It will not be as fast as a red one obviously but some people like them in white https://www.ducatiforum.co.uk/threads/1198-white-base-model.54665/
The TC can be terrible if installed incorrectly. If the gyro is installed EXACTLY how Ducati Corse did then it's not too bad, but still not like a Panigale.