Was surprised about how comfy it was. No force on your arms at all. It’s your core that holds you up.
Yep, that ever growing fat store that I care less and less about the older I get On that note, might go grab a nice salt beef bagel and some naughty chocolate for lunch
Ok, not long back, had it out for a few hours...... Firstly @Jimmy899, the dash board screen flashing day/night constantly has indeed stopped on the 18 model and is much improved. The bike defo needs a fly screen if being used as an every day bike, as the wind pressure up to 3 figure speeds is fine, but hit larger 3 figures and it becomes a little weary. I was caught in a rain storm briefly for about 5 mins, and think a small fly screen would be a great addition, providing it didn't spoil the lines of the bike, like some I've seen. The QS was awesome going down the box at any speeds and any revs, but definitely has its sweet spot going up. It works at any speed but is a little jerky in the very highest rev ranges, and a little clonky in the lower rev ranges, but both these things are probably down to me and its something I could make better given more practice. The comfort is unreal for such a bike as not once did I "need" to get off it, even in the slowest of town traffic. The suspension is firm, but compliant and the bike turns in beautifully, although I could feel it would benefit from a set up, particularly at the back. The brakes are epic and not once did I feel they required more power or feel, the initial bite is plenty and even with sustained abuse round country lanes, they remained better than I am. The guesswork fuel gauge also now appears to be fixed as it remained constant and accurate through the day. Now.... The motor !!! What an engine, what a masterpiece !! As docile as a puppy dog or as ferocious as it's dad ?? You choose ? Such a tractable motor with seemingly endless torque at near any revs. Wind it in from 3k RPM, and there is no flat spot, no hesitation and perfect fueling, and when it hits 6k, the block really starts to get into its stride. The anti wheelie was on to start with, but even electronic intervention struggles to cope with the wave of torque that hits in the mid range. So, in summary, I could wax lyrical about this bike all day, but I struggle to think of a reason not to buy one ? Would I replace the Multi, or simply add to it ?? Watch this space, but it was sure fun trying to find out
Nice write up. I don’t find wind much of a problem, more of a safety feature, but I’ve been riding naked bikes (Tuono V4 1100 previously) for a few years now so I’m probably just used to it! I did actually look at getting a screen for my impending Germany trip but most people say they just direct the wind from your chest to your head, making the ride more unpleasant. Quick shifter is like butter on mine. It was notchey prior to the first service, I put the improvement down to a software update but it could also be a combination of familiarity and bedding in.. The positive about all this tech on the bikes is that manufacturers are generally refining and improving things over the lifecycle of the model and a quick trip to the dealer provides you with an update. Yes, that motor! Wait until you get the full system, I was giggling like a kid at Christmas
If you can I'd keep the Multi as well. I've got my Superduke paired with an 1190 Adv (my preferred Multistrada variant) and I really value having the contrast available. The Superduke is phenomenal and though its easy to ride, its pretty intense. Its roomy and extremely comfortable for something with such high performance, but swapping to the 1190 after a few hours in the saddle of the SDR its immediately clear how luxurious, roomy and effortless adventure bikes are. You could tour on the Superduke and lots of people do, its certainly the most distance-friendly of the big nakeds. But I'd far rather do it on an 1190/Multi/GS etc. Also, though my 1190 doesn't have heated grips or a heated seat, it does have hand guards and an effective (non-standard) screen and in cold weather the difference in comfort levels is stark. There is very little noise or turbulence on the SDR but when the temperature drops you really feel the wind chill whereas I can ride for two or three times longer on the 1190 with far less discomfort. And the Superduke absolutely eats tyres.. Its a great all-rounder for a supernaked, but its still a supernaked. If you can pair it with an adventure bike you're got the full set.
Thanks gimbo, Sat here for a few hours now contemplating this, and I agree totally. Now to see what's the best deal I can get.
I tried one out a couple of weekends back and very impressed. Looking to consolidate two bikes into one and my last weekend away on the 899 reminded my back that's it's not getting any better. Hopefully doing a deal if the numbers work although it would be a white one. Black is too subtle.
Let us know how you get on? Must be the wrong time of year or something as I was offered fairly shite deals last week, regardless of whether I traded in or bought outright.
Have you tried fowlers in Bristol? Not the best service wise but they do a good bit of price stunts with their ktm bikes......
I thought you had a deal on the table including a full system and some other bits? It’s that silly time of year when all the garage queens are out and main dealers are quoting 4 weeks for a tyre change....
Yes mate, strange how the deal that gets you to call/visit/email etc then changes quite drastically when debit cards come out. Long story but basically the dealer ended up at near full price when labour involved and discount on evo kit was limited apparently.....
Get a demo on both colours take home put in garage open garage door whichever makes your grin bigger and trouser rumble louder is the one
