I had the same dilemma- chose the 848, I also think its a better all round package for the road. I was tempted with the S however, the 848sf seem to install far more confidence, particularly in turns. Best of luck with the decision.
Hi Banjo, I own a SF848 myself having owned a S4Rs (which is similar to the SF1098: rabid, tough to tame but loads of fun). The S4Rs almost killed me a couple of times (and did crack a few bones) but I never had such a fun bike, before or after. Then why did you swap it you may ask? Well, I got the old Monster nicked and although I was resolute to get another one I gave the SF848 a try. Of course a lot of the punch is gone, particularly in the mid range, but it felt a lot easier to handle (my riding skills are not top notch), was a lot better to ride in traffic but still had grunt to yield the odd butterfly in the stomach when on the right road Hope it helps. Cheers, Sandro
I had the same choice last year, rode them both, went for the bigger bike. Horses for courses. My SF is my second playbike, I like the manic power and dont want or care for ease of use for that reason. If it was for my only bike I'd have the 848. More usable in real life.
I swapped my 848 Dark for an 848SF about 8 months ago, so far my observations so far: The fuelling on some examples is excessively harsh and stuttering in the mid range (I rode 5 before deciding) sort of fixed by fitting Termies. The riding pos'n is really fwd and my family jewels kept hitting the tank, fixed this by fitting Rizoma MA008 handlebars, but for me the issue is lack of tyre choice the 848 uses a 60 profile Diablo Corsa rear tyre and at the moment Pirelli is the only manufacturer of that profile. I wore out the OEM rear after 1500mls and fitted a pair of Roadsmart II the rear is a 55 profile and this has made the steering slower and screwed with the traction control/speedo. I think I'll live with it for the rest of the year and if I don't gel with it then punt it in favour of a Hyperstrada or Triumph Street Triple R
Well I've only gone and done it. Three months in the waiting, and pick up my new 848 Streetfighter next week. Opted for the 848 as its new for the same money as an 09/10 1098 streetfighter. Hopefully happy days and wont miss the extra grunt.
Well my bright red 848sf now has pride of place in the motor bike shed. Cautious ride home from On Yer Bike just getting the feel for it and now gotta run it in. The goodies list is endless just the pockets not so deep at the moment.......but as they say good things come to those who wait:wink::biggrin:
Nice one mate good choice! Try not to look at the Ducati Performance Parts catalogue as it does empty your pockets sharpish! :smile:
