Took a test ride on a VFR1200 today. Rode a collection of A and B roads for a couple of hours. If that's the top sport's tourer, I'm Valentino Rossi. Compared to my MTS it's slower, less comfortable, has a shorter range, more basic (and non-adjustable) suspension, less sensitive brakes, no traction control and wind protection to make the basic MTS set-up seem like driving a car. Whenever you start to doubt what a phenomenal bike the MTS is, go ride something else!!
Collected my 18 yr. old daughter's Honda CBR 500 R today. Break in according to Honda is, don't rev it when cold. Otherwise enjoy - and I did. Impossibly to ride it on a straight line, it's so fun to flip. It did +130 KMH, easy. This must be the perfect commuter bike. Riding position is really comfortable. Picks up speed really quick. Handed it over and said, enjoy! And the back to the MTS. She really wanted a Monster, but Ducati haven't responded to the new A2 class - unfortunately.
[h=3]Sub-category A2 (standard motorcycle)[/h] Sub-category A2 motorcycles used for tests must: be a solo motorcycle be at least 395cc be between 25kW and 35kW engine power have a power to weight ratio no more than 0.2kW/kg If the engine power of the motorcycle has been restricted to fit sub-category A2, the normal unrestricted power can’t be more than double its new restricted power. If you have an A2 restricted motorcycle, you must bring proof of the restriction to your test, or it will be cancelled. It must be on headed notepaper from a main dealer, official importer or recognised specialist, and must show the motorcycle’s registration number.
I really enjoyed the me hypermotard. Not a multi beater but a fun city run around Tiny clocks, no gear or fuel gauge but fun all the same.
To get back to the subject, I couldn't agree more. I tested one about two years ago when I was looking for a replacement for my 05 ST4S. It was nowhere near the bike that the Ducati was. As for pillion use it was near useless with panniers on because they restrict the pillion's access to the foot pegs. As for quality I am not and never have been convinced that Honda build better quality bikes. Of all the Hondas I have had, deterioration in finish has always been an issue but my Ducs maintain their finish much better. The other thing about the VFR1200 was that when I got off I didn't have the magic feeling of 'I love it I want one'. I did however grin from ear to ear when I tested the Tiger 800 and ordered one there and then. Since that I have replaced the T800 with the Explorer 1200 and the ST4S with a Multi 1200. My Explorer is 13 months old and I have covered 10500 miles in all conditions and it still gleams with a wash. A friend has a Honda Crosstourer which has done less miles and is slightly younger and it is looking shabby. It has been back to Honda for replacement fixings, ABS rings exhaust headers and a variety of other bits that should stay shiny but that have all corroded. His words were " I've always been a Honda man but this thing is piss poor, I wish I'd bought the Explorer when I tested them both but went for the Honda out of a misplaced belief that it would be better"
I had a VFR12 for 12 months or so. I enjoyed it - but my neck didn't, which is why i'm back on a tall rounder.
VFR1200's are very fast efficient bikes but have all the character of an egg timer. And they drink fuel at an alarming rate.
The big down side is that the concept of old school sports tourers is dead. Most of us are getting old and creaky and want more comfort from our machines. With the Multi you get comfort, performance and practicality. It's almost the logical choice - a trait that the Japanese bike industry seems to have forgot.
Agree with this, had 2 over the last 3 years, they are very efficient at what they do, The multi is a lot more fun and a lot comfier though! having said that in my week of ownership I have suffered a failed back brake and 2 false neutrals, one of which during a rather enthusiastic corner, that was interesting! (Hi Paul!)
Welcome to the club! I have yet to meet an MTS owner with a functioning back brake and every ducati box come with at least two false neutrals, free of charge...
Well now you have; functional rear brake on 2011 PP. No upgrades required. Only HH Ferodo Platinum pads fitted. Great improvement. Is it brutal? No. Is it very functional yes. Mind you, sneaky upgrade in the offing to lift it to the next level.
Like its forebear the VF750F. Had one once and it drank more than my old man and he was a rolled gold alcoholic!
