If you had a really nice 749 2004 with 5800 miles full history in very clean if not imaculate conditions only used on the road, would it be worth selling and looking for a 749s? If you were planing on keeping it for the foreseeable? Is the s that much better?
I've always felt that the difference between a 749 and a 749S is smaller than that between a 999 and a 999S. Upgrading to a 999S seems worthwhile to me. I don't have that feeling with the 749S. Just my opinion, and I will watch for replies here with some specifics, with interest.
No. If you have everything sorted, bike is mint, then other than an itch to go a split second faster or having racetrack handling when you never go on the racetrack, I'd stick with the bike you know, love and is paid for and spend the extra money on petrol riding it.
@xander296 What is there about the 749s that is making you consider one over your standard bike ? As above, I`d get the suspension tuned for you and your riding style as its not as if Ducati gave the standard bike rubbish equipment.
Go for an R! I wish I had the money, theres nothing pushing me towards the 749s specifically but just an itch cause they are out there, I have KAIS suspension near me might be worth a visit see if they can tune the suspension in for me as sugested.
If you were looking to upgrade (or get a companion) then either go for a 749r or a 748r or a 999s. I wouldn't upgrade a 749 base to a 749s for the very limited trinkets (slightly different motor, different frame with adjustable footrests and headstock, slight upgrade of suspension... probably more but that's all I can remember right now). The 999s gets all the 749s trinkets but with more grunt and Ohlins... but they're not R/T Ohlins, just OEM ones. As has been discussed here previously, a set of Sachs/Showa that are well maintained and set up are more than adequate for the road.
Thanks for the replies, suspension and dyno time it is then! Got rid of my R1 to slow down a bit so don't want to go the 999s route though its hard to resist (same bike but faster whats not to like) I do like the 749 every rides a pleasure, its got character
