So yesterday I got out first thing before the rain on the new to me 848 Evo SE, then today in the same way I've been out on the 848 Streetfighter. Same route, same road conditions. Basically the two have the same engine and chassis but give a totally different riding experience. The Evo is like a missile, sleek and smooth. The SF is tigerish, eager, easier to lever into corners. Both have quick shifters but the SF has a shorter throw and clicks in easier whereas the Evo's has a longer throw, and is taking some getting used to. Comfort wise both are pretty good for a two hour blast around the countryside. No real problems, the SF has the Ducati comfort seat, the Evo has a Seargent, so both are better than stock. Biggest difference is the shock. Didn't think it would be a big thing, I get sick of hearing about Ohlins this, Ohlins that, same problem I have with Termignoni, I like to leave my bikes stock. But my god the Evo is magic carpet ride when compared to the non-Ohlin suspended 848. I avoided buying the Evo at first. I thought it would be too much like my beloved SF848 but having now got both I am very happy with the choice. They are both great and different to each other in all sorts of crucial ways. The SF is fun and happy. The Evo is slightly serious, rapier like and I am a very lucky man.
Yep, my standard 848 Evo was rock hard, glad you are enjoying the new one! the 899 is like an arm chair compared! but I do miss that engine sometimes! it definitely punched well above it's weight!
