Depends where you're coming from, I guess... you're an old hand with Ducati so you know their character and temperament, but if you're coming to a Panigale from an IL4 then they probably do feel a bit different. The Panigale has been a massive hit, and I suppose if you're used to something with an IL4 engine then they feel savage, as the grunt is there off the throttle rather than at the top of the rev range. An older Ducati without the slipper clutch is an even more interesting proposition, the fierce engine braking and rear end squirrelling from a non-slipper bike is a hoot, once you're expecting it! I love shutting the throttle and letting the engine haul me back for a corner without touching the brakes... conversely, on my IL4s I feel like a fish out of water, and am often pacifying myself with a few dabs of brake, while worrying as I have no electrickery to save me from my own stupidity...
Yep, it certainly is a case of horses for courses! I ride my MV Agusta F4 for a short duration local knee scrape session, whereas my Pikes Peak Multi gets ridden hard on longer routes and gives me more heads up on roads I've never been down and in comfort but it still has the hooligan appeal and can still get round the twisties in a fun style. I cannot fault it now I'm use to it, its like an old pipe and slippers, its getting better the more I ride it
FS1E? They are much too expensive these days ! Hahahaha Persevere, you have a great bike, save up for a second bike to cover the touring whim! I run 4 bikes a sports Tourer, a race rep, a historic Jap and a historic Brit! They all have their place and I love riding all of them in different moods and with different mates or on my own. Keep it and you will learn to allow wear and tear on the bike, the kids and wife won't eat it! Just lay down some garage rules though. My 7 year old goes in the garage and I just guide her, they have to learn. Enjoy your bike and the many dry days that lay ahead!
