1 Week And 1000 Miles

Hi,

Had my 1098 just over a week now and have done 1000 miles. I wouldn't normally ride that much in a week, but had a bit of spare time and thought it would be good to get really acquainted with the beast after riding various models of s1000rr's for the last 5 years.

So, what differences have I found so far off the top of my head in no particular order;

1. Clutch (the obvious one) is very different to the s1000rr. Not as easy to use, but provides a certain character.
2. Torque is really good low down and in most gears. Makes a really nice riding experience.
3. Riding in town...well basically don't do it unless you are a masochist! I used to think I had good clutch control when filtering at low speed through traffic. Think again newbie!!
4. Comfort. Contrary to popular belief, I find the 1098 really comfortable compared to the s1000rr. The stretch to the clip ons is nice and not too low and doesn't make my back ache. It's a much bigger sized bike and, being 6'4'', that helps. The position of the pegs isn't too high and my legs don't feel like they are being bent into unnatural positions.
5. Ride. It's not as flickable as the s1000rr which means riding the twisty back roads requires more thought and consideration. But the thing is it makes me use more technique and means I'm not riding as fast as the s1000rr.
6. No abs. Have to actually ride instead of just being lazy and jamming on the brakes.
7. No tc. Makes me more wary in the wet which is a good thing. But, I haven't had any problems with losing traction.
8. Sound. Full Termignoni exhaust system is not quiet, but sounds amazing. Put in the baffles, didn't make any noticeable difference, so took them out again (that was fun!). Clutch does make a noise compared to a wet one and will try to do something about that as per my other thread. But the sound overall makes me smile when in town, small children cry and puppies cower as I pass.

Overall a fantastic bike and I look forward to riding lots, meeting up with other Ducati riders and learning how to look after it properly.

Have a good Christmas and New Year.

SFH.

 

Yes, it's been good fun. Rode up to Scarborough on Boxing Day to visit relatives and back last night. Got a bit wet on the way up, but was dry coming back yesterday. Boring on the long straight bits on the A1 but nice over the Wolds.

SFH.

 

I certainly have to have some input now . Can't just expect the electronics to look after me.

When are you going to get another bike? Needs to be red of course. Mine is red and white as it has an after-market colour scheme but want to get a full set of red fairings to go back to original.

SFH.

 

Very sensible. I wish I was that sensible.

The scrambler is a very nice bike. I took one for a test ride but it felt a bit small for me. With my long legs, I looked like I was on a kids push bike .