So I'm in the process of shopping for my first street bike and want my first bike to be a Ducati Monster S2R. I have ridden dirt for 10 years and took the MSF 2 weeks ago, passed without a problem.
I've been talking to a friend who rides a 1K Moto Guzzi in San Francisco and he has recommended that I look into a 1K Monster, thinking that I could easily handle the 1K due to my riding experience and that I would really enjoy the power of a 1K on the freeway. He grew up with me riding dirtbikes.
The other reason I'm considering the 1K is that I really don't want to buy an 800 and a year later start itching for the 1K and have to sell the 800. I want to be able to buy something I can keep around and invest in.
I'm looking to use the bike as a summer commuter, and during the weekend trips to San Francisco down HWY 1, and Lake Tahoe. There are some really good deals to be had on both bikes on Craigslist and I am already approved for a loan, so now the question lies with which bike I should get.
I was in the same boat as you when I was wanting a Monster. I wanted the bike more for it's style (and not speed) so I was fine with a 800. The only reason I did go with the S2R1K over the 800 is the fact the 800 has a wet clutch. In my opinion a Ducati must have two things to really make it a Ducati (dry clutch and Single Sided Swingarm).
I say go for the 1000 and call it a day.
Quote from: bipolarbear on April 14, 2009, 09:11:04 AM
So I'm in the process of shopping for my first street bike and want my first bike to be a Ducati Monster S2R. I have ridden dirt for 10 years and took the MSF 2 weeks ago, passed without a problem.
I've been talking to a friend who rides a 1K Moto Guzzi in San Francisco and he has recommended that I look into a 1K Monster, thinking that I could easily handle the 1K due to my riding experience and that I would really enjoy the power of a 1K on the freeway. He grew up with me riding dirtbikes.
The other reason I'm considering the 1K is that I really don't want to buy an 800 and a year later start itching for the 1K and have to sell the 800. I want to be able to buy something I can keep around and invest in.
I'm looking to use the bike as a summer commuter, and during the weekend trips to San Francisco down HWY 1, and Lake Tahoe. There are some really good deals to be had on both bikes on Craigslist and I am already approved for a loan, so now the question lies with which bike I should get.
go for the 1000
+1 Go 1000. You will not be happy with the power of the 800. And the dry clutch is a must.
Cheers
Mark
Quote from: bipolarbear on April 14, 2009, 09:11:04 AM
I'm looking to use the bike as a summer commuter, and during the weekend trips to San Francisco down HWY 1, and Lake Tahoe. There are some really good deals to be had on both bikes on Craigslist and I am already approved for a loan, so now the question lies with which bike I should get.
Maybe you should also look at a Multistrada.
Quote from: ProTeal55 on April 14, 2009, 09:17:03 AM
I was in the same boat as you when I was wanting a Monster. I wanted the bike more for it's style (and not speed) so I was fine with a 800. The only reason I did go with the S2R1K over the 800 is the fact the 800 has a wet clutch. In my opinion a Ducati must have two things to really make it a Ducati (dry clutch and Single Sided Swingarm).
I say go for the 1000 and call it a day.
Exact same thing for me, word for word. Go for the 1K.
I'm very happy with my 800 - it will do 135 and the torque is impressive.
I tested a 1000 and the difference I noticed was that it did 125 in the same way/time that my 800 does 115 - that's how it felt anyway.
The 1000 has about 30% more torque than the 800 - that's worth something.
The brakes and suspension are much better on the 1000 - that's worth a lot!
I really think the extra goodies and power easily will justify the price difference. It didn't for me in tax-hell Norway - $4,500.
Just make sure you have enough left over to get a nice exhaust system 8)
I went through the same thing about 2 years ago. Coming from a 620, I wanted something I could keep for a while and modify. I ended up going for the 1000 because it has adjustable suspension, dry clutch, much better brakes and more power. Ultimately, I think a 1000 will be a great bike even if you decide to keep it for many years. The design will be a classic while also being a fairly modern bike. I never regretted my decision.
Quote from: bipolarbear on April 14, 2009, 09:11:04 AM
So I'm in the process of shopping for my first street bike and want my first bike to be a Ducati Monster S2R. I have ridden dirt for 10 years and took the MSF 2 weeks ago, passed without a problem.
I've been talking to a friend who rides a 1K Moto Guzzi in San Francisco and he has recommended that I look into a 1K Monster, thinking that I could easily handle the 1K due to my riding experience and that I would really enjoy the power of a 1K on the freeway. He grew up with me riding dirtbikes.
The other reason I'm considering the 1K is that I really don't want to buy an 800 and a year later start itching for the 1K and have to sell the 800. I want to be able to buy something I can keep around and invest in.
I'm looking to use the bike as a summer commuter, and during the weekend trips to San Francisco down HWY 1, and Lake Tahoe. There are some really good deals to be had on both bikes on Craigslist and I am already approved for a loan, so now the question lies with which bike I should get.
Thanks for all of the replys, now I just have to find a reasonable priced 1K in my area. Good thing San Francisco is only 2 hours away.
It's funny how people on here are saying that the S2R1000 is an appropriate first streetbike, they usually say otherwise. Also, the S2R800 is not a slow bike by any means. 77hp at the crank is nothing to sneeze at, especially when the bike only weighs 380. If you are a lightweight person the bike is a joy with plenty of power to get you killed in a hurry. If you're a typical American corn-fed big boy well then maybe you could use the adjustable suspension and the extra 13 horses to haul yourself around but you certainly don't need it. S2R800 has one of the most tractable and useable powerbands that I've experienced, stock. The fact that it doesn't have insane power is irrelevant, you don't need insane power. [evil] The 800s also have the APTC clutch and never seem to suffer from the fueling issues that the 1000cc bikes suffer from. They are basically trouble-free bikes; can't say that for the 1000s. Dry clutches are way overrated; they make an untidy noise that contaminates the sweet sound of the engine and they require more maintenance(new plates/baskets more frequently) and lever effort. The only real way to realize the weight savings they offer is to pull the clutch out and replace it piece by piece with lightweight aftermarket which means big dough. There is nothing inherently 'better' about a dry clutch. If there were, BMW/Honda/Suzuki/Kaw/etc would all have dry clutches. Even the exotic MV Agusta clutches are wet. I can say that with an Evo slave and a CRG lever that I have achieved clutch nirvana with my 800 wet clutch Ducati. Smooth as silk.
That being said, 1000s have much better suspension. The 800s have SHIT for a front end. Rear end is too stiff for the intended 165lb rider which is me. The front brakes are also better for sure, 320mm vs 300mm and the calipers are four-pots not two-pots designed to fool you into thinking they are four-pots. All Ducati would have had to do is make the suspension and brakes better and the bike would have few detractors. Goldline calipers would not have made a huge cost difference, but oh well. As it stands people bag on the 800 as a woman's bike when in fact it's quite capable if you can stand the stock components. Don't let the bigger-better-faster-more mindset rule your decision-making. The 800 is a great bike. If you find one that's already modded with better suspension and brakes it would be worth investigating. People you don't reed a racebike on the street. [leo] [evil] [bacon] [moto]
I bought my S2R 800 in 05 before the 1k's came out. I loved it, but I wanted better brakes, better forks, and I would have preferred a dry clutch. An extra 100-200 ccs wouldn't hurt either.
Imagine my surprise, when, after upgrading all I could (brakes, forks) Ducati came out with the 1k.
I would have bought the 1k in a NY minute over the 800.
Quote from: hunduc on April 14, 2009, 12:29:57 PM
Exact same thing for me, word for word. Go for the 1K.
+1... thats why I bought my S2R1K...Dry clutch and SSS [thumbsup]
Go for the S2R1k. SSS. Dry clutch...looks and sound if nothing else. More torque. Better suspension. Better brakes. You will be happy with it longer. You might as well get a 696 if you are considering the 800. The 696 makes more power, has better brakes, better suspension.
Quote from: bergdoerfer on April 15, 2009, 12:04:27 PM
As it stands people bag on the 800 as a woman's bike...
since when? ???
the 620 is the chick bike, everyone knows this to be true ;D
I don't understand why people think the S2R 800 is underpowered.. Sure it's no track bike, but I find it plenty powerful for my needs (me being 6'1" 200lbs.) The power range on it is great, is super awesome in the twisties, and has enough get up and go for me to merge into 85mph traffic very quickly on my commute to work. I find it VERY fun.
I've had mine for almost a year and I have no desire for going bigger. I did need to have the front suspension rebuilt ($700) to make that not suck, but overall it's a great bike that I won't be giving up.
S2R1000. [thumbsup] I'm biased... I have one. You are right to think you might be wanting the 1000 in a year and start regretting you ever got the 800. Do it. [moto]
Love my 800 ..glad i bought it
great slipper wet clutch
but that being said i do have dry clutch envy and suspension envy as well
so 2 things to think about .......insurance cost the 800 will be alot cheaper and second the "slipper" clutch is very nice like riding a stroker ...just hammer that baby down
so buy the 1K
I have a 1000 and the bike's got plenty of power for 99% of average street riding. If you'd like to read about its "better than every air-cooled duc powerplant that came before it", go here: http://www.moto-one.com.au/performance/ (http://www.moto-one.com.au/performance/)
Get the 1k and put on Termi's. [evil] 8)
Quote from: Darth Paul on April 15, 2009, 03:42:34 PM
I don't understand why people think the S2R 800 is underpowered..
I have an M750 and a 900SS (M900 in track clothes) you could say. The M750 is great fun for day to day riding. The M800 should be an improvement IMO, gets bit more power and it's good to go unless you're spending most of your time on the track.
JM
IMO both have more power then you could ever use on the street. I have S2R with some mods. I'm more than happy with the power, even here at elevation in CO! I bought the S2R in 05', correct me if I'm wrong but the S2R1000 came out the following yr? I probably would have picked the 1000 if it was available at the time because of the dry clutch and suspension upgrades. If a little more $$ isn't an issue...to buy, for insurance and probably for maintenance I'd say go for it!
Quote from: the_Journeyman on April 15, 2009, 09:02:30 PM
I have an M750 and a 900SS (M900 in track clothes) you could say. The M750 is great fun for day to day riding. The M800 should be an improvement IMO, gets bit more power and it's good to go unless you're spending most of your time on the track.
JM
S2R8 = slipper clutch
M800 = no slipper clutch
s2r1000. If i could do it over again, i would go for the 1000. my bike (s2r800) was my first motorcycle Period! You have had dirt bikes so your not new to motorcycle.
Reasons for a 1000 would be DRY CLUTCH, better brakes, suspensions and master cylinders. I ended up doing all theses mods (besides converting into a dry clutch) so i think the 1000 is a better value and did i mention dry clutch?
I like the wet clutch..
I also like the symmetrical lower pipes.
I felt the 1000 was to big for me as a first bike...
Now a year later and with 10.000 on the 695 I am thinking of a bigger one.
Thinking, yes, needing ? no...not at all.
I would get the 800 and spend the other 2-4 on a Termis and mods...and gear..LOAds of gear [drink]
Quote from: ArguZ on April 16, 2009, 06:19:27 AM
Now a year later and with 10.000 on the 695 I am thinking of a bigger one.
Thinking, yes, needing ? no...not at all.
I would get the 800 and spend the other 2-4 on a Termis and mods...and gear..LOAds of gear [drink]
if you are upgrading from the 695, don't bother with the 800, the power is too similar to what you have now, definitely go to the 1000, otherwise what's the point of upgrading for a few more HP.
Just remember, a skilled rider on an 800 will smoke a novice rider on a 1K. Its not about how "fast" you are its about how "quick" you are.
I have an S2R 800, which was my first bike. Plenty of power-- and I'm a big guy. A really great bike, all around. I was just out riding it today.
I've got no qualms w/ my S2R800. Great bike, I commute on it, flog it on the backroads and it looks and sounds great. The slipper clutch is NICE. The main area I would work on is the suspension and brakes (like others have already said). The bike is able to keep up w/ all the guys I've ridden w/. No one is leaving me behind due to lack of power, it's the my skills that get me left behind. I don't regret getting an 800 at all, but the components on the 1k are superior and will keep you happier in the long run.
Later
p.s. If you do get the hankerin' for an 800....you know....red w/ white stripe, white wheels, GPR exhaust.....9k or so miles on it....then LMK. I might be persuaded to part w/ it.
PM sent!
Quote from: OT on April 15, 2009, 07:54:22 PM
I have a 1000 and the bike's got plenty of power for 99% of average street riding. If you'd like to read about its "better than every air-cooled duc powerplant that came before it", go here: http://www.moto-one.com.au/performance/ (http://www.moto-one.com.au/performance/)
OT:
Tried the link a few times but it doesn't go anywhere. You sure it's correct? Would love to read a review of my bike...I'm crazy nuts about my 1K. What's OT stand for, btw?
Dry clutch is a must,go with the s2r1. That's the trademark of the DUC!
I go along with the 800 crowd. The intelligent route would be to go with the 800. Get the suspension and brakes changed over to what the 1000 has. In the long run you will have a bike that handles and out performs the 1000. It will be lighter and quicker have have less maintenance issues than the 1000. Plus the insurance would be much less. with all the money you save you can mod the bike to your hearts content. I will bet you that no 1000 will ever leave you in the dust. Providing your kung fu is better, in the twisty's I will even go so far as to say you will have blown them away. It would be like a Porsche out handling a Corvette in the canyons. Only in this case the Porsche cost less all the way around.... [thumbsup]
Go the smart route not the muscle way... [moto]
[bang] Besides, the 1000 has better suspension and brakes , because its big, heavy, and cumbersome. It needs all that just to keep in under control. Look at it this way. Superbike and AMA litre bike racers go into MotoGP and most can't hang. MotoGP has 800cc bikes with the best brakes and suspension in the industry and they are the elite class. Bayliss is a god of Superbike and in three years of being in MotoGP never won a race. Then in 2006 wins at Valencia his only win as a replacement rider I think.
In 2008 Ben Spies AMA mega champion rides in MotoGP at Laguna Seca barely finishes 8th, then on the same day wins the AMA class...
Dude, if you weigh over 250 lbs I get it. but if not. What's the point, dry clutch? If dry clutch is your aim then 1000 all the way.... [bow_down]
Quote from: Loyalizer on April 21, 2009, 09:43:20 AM
Get the suspension and brakes changed over to what the 1000 has.
Or just buy the 1000 for less money than the 800 plus all the parts and labor.
Quote from: Loyalizer on April 21, 2009, 09:43:20 AM
In the long run you will have a bike that handles and out performs the 1000.
Nope. Same suspension and brakes + less power = lower performance.
Quote from: Loyalizer on April 21, 2009, 09:43:20 AM
It will be lighter and quicker have have less maintenance issues than the 1000.
15 lbs lighter is not significant. Maintenance is the same.
Quote from: Loyalizer on April 21, 2009, 09:43:20 AM
Plus the insurance would be much less.
Not with most insurance companies in the US. Europe is a different story.
Quote from: Loyalizer on April 21, 2009, 09:43:20 AM
Besides, the 1000 has better suspension and brakes , because its big, heavy, and cumbersome. It needs all that just to keep in under control.
The S2R 1000 is anything but big, heavy, and cumbersome. If it were then the S2R 800 plus a big breakfast would also be big, heavy, and cumbersome.
um,.......less than 10 pounds different between bikes (382 vs 391). also, not sure what you mean my less maintenance???
unless you are mixing the s2r100 and the s4r?
Im sorry let start by saying I don't know much about either bike other than a few specs. Going off what I have read on this thread. Every 800 owner seems to feel it is a powerful bike. I should have said get the better suspension and brakes not necessarily the one the 1000 has. A lighter bike should translate to being easier to flick in a turn. More power still has to lug more weight. 15 lbs is nothing to scoff at. If you area hefty person maybe one needs a 1000. if you are a buck sixty, not so much.
if guys think the 1000 is more nimble than an 800 I beg to differ. Plus what is the top speeds between the two are negligible 5-8 mph. You all know at that point its all about he rider and not the machine.
Are not the AMA bikes heavier than the MotoGP bikes? do they not have higher cc's? How different are the brakes and suspension packages? If Toseland was the Superbike Champion why can't he finish better than 8th in MotoGP. Bayliss, Spies, and Vermuelen all came from 1000cc's but doesn't seem to translate into successful MGP. Stoner came from 250cc's and he was Champion.
Quote from: Loyalizer on April 21, 2009, 09:03:23 PM
Im sorry let start by saying I don't know much about either bike other than a few specs. Going off what I have read on this thread. Every 800 owner seems to feel it is a powerful bike. I should have said get the better suspension and brakes not necessarily the one the 1000 has. A lighter bike should translate to being easier to flick in a turn. More power still has to lug more weight. 15 lbs is nothing to scoff at. If you area hefty person maybe one needs a 1000. if you are a buck sixty, not so much.
if guys think the 1000 is more nimble than an 800 I beg to differ. Plus what is the top speeds between the two are negligible 5-8 mph. You all know at that point its all about he rider and not the machine.
Are not the AMA bikes heavier than the MotoGP bikes? do they not have higher cc's? How different are the brakes and suspension packages? If Toseland was the Superbike Champion why can't he finish better than 8th in MotoGP. Bayliss, Spies, and Vermuelen all came from 1000cc's but doesn't seem to translate into successful MGP. Stoner came from 250cc's and he was Champion.
So, let's get this straight. You don't know much about either bike but you insist that the 800 is a better handling bike.
Tell you what, get an S2R800 and an S2R1000 and meet me at the track.
Quote from: Loyalizer on April 21, 2009, 09:03:23 PM
Im sorry let start by saying I don't know much about either bike other than a few specs. Going off what I have read on this thread. Every 800 owner seems to feel it is a powerful bike. I should have said get the better suspension and brakes not necessarily the one the 1000 has. A lighter bike should translate to being easier to flick in a turn. More power still has to lug more weight. 15 lbs is nothing to scoff at. If you area hefty person maybe one needs a 1000. if you are a buck sixty, not so much.
if guys think the 1000 is more nimble than an 800 I beg to differ. Plus what is the top speeds between the two are negligible 5-8 mph. You all know at that point its all about he rider and not the machine.
Are not the AMA bikes heavier than the MotoGP bikes? do they not have higher cc's? How different are the brakes and suspension packages? If Toseland was the Superbike Champion why can't he finish better than 8th in MotoGP. Bayliss, Spies, and Vermuelen all came from 1000cc's but doesn't seem to translate into successful MGP. Stoner came from 250cc's and he was Champion.
so why are you you arguing the point?
and what good is comparing race bikes/riders with joe bike owner?
buying a used 800 vs a used 1000 is not that big a difference in price point. and it becomes moot once you upgrade the suspension and brakes on the 800.
the 800 produces 76 hp(72nm) compared to the 1000 at 93hp(94nm). thats 17 more ponies to drive those 9 extra pounds.
just seems like you have a hard on for the 1000cc bikes?????
See thats testosterone talk'n not reason. Im trying to understand the logistics of something. Tell you what how bout we play a game of chess instead. winner take all.
Reading all the post on this thread, the only real mention is the dry clutch difference. Other than HP what really makes it better? Again, if top speed is not that much difference, and both can have similar high end components. I still think the lighter bike will fair better in a head to head, track type situation.
I'd like to see Stoner on his 800 vs Bayliss on his 1000 both race at Philip Island. Or Rossi on his 800 M1 bike vs Spies on his 1000 GSXR at Laguna Seca, who do you think will win ?
Or for that matter you on your bike an someone that really knows how to drag knee on a 695. See, now you are claiming to be somethings special on the track, I'm not...
Quote from: herm on April 21, 2009, 09:24:33 PM
so why are you you arguing the point?
and what good is comparing race bikes/riders with joe bike owner?
buying a used 800 vs a used 1000 is not that big a difference in price point. and it becomes moot once you upgrade the suspension and brakes on the 800.
the 800 produces 76 hp(72nm) compared to the 1000 at 93hp(94nm). thats 17 more ponies to drive those 9 extra pounds.
just seems like you have a hard on for the 1000cc bikes?????
The concepts the same
Relativity
I have seen people do amazing things with all types of machines. To me it seems more like everyone else has the hard on for the 1000. Mine would be for the 800 [moto]
Quote from: Loyalizer on April 21, 2009, 09:27:55 PM
See thats testosterone talk'n not reason. Im trying to understand the logistics of something. Tell you what how bout we play a game of chess instead. winner take all.
Reading all the post on this thread, the only real mention is the dry clutch difference. Other than HP what really makes it better? Again, if top speed is not that much difference, and both can have similar high end components. I still think the lighter bike will fair better in a head to head, track type situation.
I'd like to see Stoner on his 800 vs Bayliss on his 1000 both race at Philip Island. Or Rossi on his 800 M1 bike vs Spies on his 1000 GSXR at Laguna Seca, who do you think will win ?
Or for that matter you on your bike an someone that really knows how to drag knee on a 695. See, now you are claiming to be somethings special on the track, I'm not...
I like small light bikes over big heavy bikes. Now having ridden both the 800 and the 1000 I can tell you that the 1000 turns and stops MUCH better than the 800. As for the difference in weight, you can't tell. Now, put some BST wheels on the 1000 and you will feel like you are on a 250 lb bike. That is weight that will really make a difference.
As for being special on the track, I know of at least one guy on a 848 who can easily pass me on my 1098 and it is not because his bike is lighter than mine.
Now for the GP vs WSBK thing. GP bikes are built to a MUCH higher state of tune with FAR more advanced components everywhere. WSBK has to be very close to production so this is not and apples to apples comparison. Plus the GP bikes were 1000 cc a couple of years ago and they didn't get faster when they went down to 800 cc.
Now back to the topic at hand. The original poster is an experienced rider who wants a bike he wont outgrow. For him I would recommend the 1000 over the 800.
if you have 10 yrs experience then you should go for the bigger bike.
but you should definitely test ride both bikes. i'm pretty sure the ducati dealers in SF will let you test ride a few...
but once you ride the faster one, you WILL be sold.
good luck
Quote from: silentbob on April 21, 2009, 09:42:50 PM
As for being special on the track, I know of at least one guy on a 848 who can easily pass me on my 1098 and it is not because his bike is lighter than mine.
[bow_down]
I guess that is more in tune to my way of thinking. At a certain point all that power doesn't really matter. Its like saying your basketball game is better because of your shoes. I have been on this board for a while now. It seems like its a programmed response to always go for the bigger bike. I don't know why. From what I can tell, no one gets a monster for top speed, thats what the Superbikes (848 & 1098) are for. To say its faster is almost silly. Here we are debating over 10-15 lbs., as if 5 to 8 miles an hour will make a huge difference. Ill put my little M620 up against any 695 or 696, provided I can choose the rider. :o
Lets put it in perspective. The guy says he's a dirt bike rider, looking to commute and play a little on weekends. I guessing 130 mph vs 138 mph is not going to twist his shorts in a bunch. But I'm willing to bet in the twisty back roads that 800 is more nibble than the 1000.
Im also willing to bet any rider better than you, will "easily pass" you on an 848 every time until your skill level increases, if it increases... [wine]
Quote from: Loyalizer on April 22, 2009, 03:49:16 AM
[bow_down]
I guess that is more in tune to my way of thinking. At a certain point all that power doesn't really matter. Its like saying your basketball game is better because of your shoes. I have been on this board for a while now. It seems like its a programmed response to always go for the bigger bike. I don't know why. From what I can tell, no one gets a monster for top speed, thats what the Superbikes (848 & 1098) are for. To say its faster is almost silly. Here we are debating over 10-15 lbs., as if 5 to 8 miles an hour will make a huge difference. Ill put my little M620 up against any 695 or 696, provided I can choose the rider. :o
Lets put it in perspective. The guy says he's a dirt bike rider, looking to commute and play a little on weekends. I guessing 130 mph vs 138 mph is not going to twist his shorts in a bunch. But I'm willing to bet in the twisty back roads that 800 is more nibble than the 1000.
Im also willing to bet any rider better than you, will "easily pass" you on an 848 every time until your skill level increases, if it increases... [wine]
Most people on this board automatically recommend a smaller bike. In this case the OP wants a bike he won't soon outgrow and he has enough experience to handle a 1000.
You argue that the performance difference of the 1000 is not that great and then go on to say that it is too powerful and no one can use that much power.
You say that 10 lbs. is a trivial difference and then argue that the 800 will out handle a 1000 because of it. This despite real evidence from people who have actually ridden both bikes.
There are many of us here who can take advantage of the better suspension, brakes, and power of the 1000, maybe you are not one of them. You are correct that the Monster is not a race bike and that is why even the 1000 is a fairly docile machine and well suited for the OP's intended purpose.
The difference in top speed is fairly negligible between naked bikes but the additional low end grunt of the 1000 also means more drive out of the corners and less shifting when on the highway.
Bayliss rode the 1098 much faster than any of the other 1098 riders in WSBK. Does that mean they should ride smaller bikes? They obviously can't use all the potential of a 1098. I ride with some WERA guys on the track who can out ride me on any given machine but I still ride faster on an S2R1000 than I would over an S2R800. I continue to run quicker times on faster, more capable machines. I still have yet to tap as much of the 1098 as I would like and as such I am only significantly faster on the 1098 over the 848 on bigger tracks.
If you have been monitoring this board for a while then you should realize that the majority here can appreciate and use better suspension and brakes which the 1000 has over the 800.
As for weight and height I'm 160 lbs and 6ft tall.
I have a couple of bikes I have been e-mailing about one is a stock s2r 1000 and I've managed to talk them down to $6600 from $7500. Another is an s2r 800 dark asking price of $5500, and the last is an s2r 800 with exhaust and some other mods and I'm waiting to hear back on a price for that one. Tough choice right now.
You are all making me feel bad about my S2R now. (800) :-[
Quote from: MsTek on April 22, 2009, 09:43:35 AM
You are all making me feel bad about my S2R now. (800) :-[
The 800 is a great bike. So is the 620. But the 1000 is a better performing bike. My 1098 is a great bike. The 1198 is even better. I am still happy with mine.
I loved my s2r800
right up until I hucked it over a cliff
[laugh]
Quote from: bipolarbear on April 22, 2009, 08:32:34 AM
As for weight and height I'm 160 lbs and 6ft tall.
I have a couple of bikes I have been e-mailing about one is a stock s2r 1000 and I've managed to talk them down to $6600 from $7500. Another is an s2r 800 dark asking price of $5500, and the last is an s2r 800 with exhaust and some other mods and I'm waiting to hear back on a price for that one. Tough choice right now.
Tough choice? ;D Not really - you'll be very impressed and happy either way [moto] Come on - you're getting a Monster [thumbsup] ;) Party time!
Oh theres no doubt about it I'm going to be happy with whatever I buy! I've had the fattest grin on my face for the last week as things have finally starting coming together ;D
I have had my S2R800 for two years now. Love it. Debated the same as you (and earlier considered the GT1000 and Multi). I am 6'2" 200lbs. Plenty of power and brakes on the S2R800 for the street the way I ride. I went with the 800 because for me it was a better value. It had a wet clutch and this was my first street bike (road dirt a while back) so I felt more confident on it. The suspension is my only beef, but that is something I think every rider must get adjusted anyway. The suspension can be improved greatly and set up for YOU by changing the springs. At 200lbs I was likely looking at new springs no matter what bike. That said, I confess I haven't done it yet but hope to this year - I have adjusted the rear.
You will love either. Find the best deal and don't look back.
Cheers,
Dan
Quote from: MsTek on April 22, 2009, 09:43:35 AM
You are all making me feel bad about my S2R now. (800) :-[
Haha don't feel bad, I think you've got a nice bike in a rare color combo. The S2R800s are rock-solid and easy to live with, with enough excitement for the average non-racing lawbreaking citizen hooligan.
It's not WHAT you ride, it's THAT you ride. At the end of the day it's still a Ducati, made in Italy, and even a 620 sounds like Hell unleashed with cored cans.
Quote from: bergdoerfer on April 22, 2009, 01:50:47 PM
Haha don't feel bad, I think you've got a nice bike in a rare color combo. The S2R800s are rock-solid and easy to live with, with enough excitement for the average non-racing lawbreaking citizen hooligan.
It's not WHAT you ride, it's THAT you ride. At the end of the day it's still a Ducati, made in Italy, and even a 620 sounds like Hell unleashed with cored cans.
One of my favorite bikes is the 620 Multistrada. A bike considered to be among the ugliest things to leave the Ducati factory outside of the sewer pipe and powered by what most consider to be a girl's bike engine.
Quote from: silentbob on April 22, 2009, 08:31:20 AM
If you have been monitoring this board for a while then you should realize that the majority here can appreciate and use better suspension and brakes which the 1000 has over the 800.
[coffee] So here is my question, is the 800 more nibble yes or no? Do insurance companies charge less for bikes under 1000 for coverage? if the price difference in obtaining the bike is more than $1000 would the saving be better put in upgrading to higher grade suspension and brakes or whatever components one may fancy? Is the dry clutch apt to be more or less of a maintenance issue over the wet clutch?
[thumbsup] I guess Im thinking more bigger picture, as a whole, more bang for buck. Plus I have read many a time on this board that the 1000 or the S4R's are sometimes too cumbersome a bike for everyday traffic. (Im just sayin' that's what I been reading here) But, again, what do I know, Im on a 620. I just wanted something I could pick up if it fell.
BTW - You and I are roughly the same body type give or take a few or more pounds (182 cm + 75 kg). Anyway, I was reading the manuel from my M620. It recommends not exceeding over 390 kg for total weight, bike (168 kg) included. So basically if you count me plus the bike, the heaviest passenger I can take on is 322.5 lbs. (146.6 kg). Just a little random trivia... ;)
I'm a work in progress, learning new things everyday...
Quote from: Loyalizer on April 22, 2009, 03:35:29 PM
[coffee] So here is my question, is the 800 more nibble yes or no? Do insurance companies charge less for bikes under 1000 for coverage? if the price difference in obtaining the bike is more than $1000 would the saving be better put in upgrading to higher grade suspension and brakes or whatever components one may fancy? Is the dry clutch apt to be more or less of a maintenance issue over the wet clutch?
[thumbsup] I guess Im thinking more bigger picture, as a whole, more bang for buck. Plus I have read many a time on this board that the 1000 or the S4R's are sometimes too cumbersome a bike for everyday traffic. (Im just sayin' that's what I been reading here) But, again, what do I know, Im on a 620. I just wanted something I could pick up if it fell.
BTW - You and I are roughly the same body type give or take a few or more pounds (182 cm + 75 kg). Anyway, I was reading the manuel from my M620. It recommends not exceeding over 390 kg for total weight, bike (168 kg) included. So basically if you count me plus the bike, the heaviest passenger I can take on is 322.5 lbs. (146.6 kg). Just a little random trivia... ;)
I'm a work in progress, learning new things everyday...
The chassis geometry and ergos are the same between the two bikes. The 800 is a little lighter but the 1000 has better suspension. Some might feel that the 800 is a little more flickable, but no more than changing to a light flywheel on the 1000 would feel. As to which one will hustle around corners better, the 1000 with it's better suspension has the advantage. Either bike will have to be sprung appropriately for the rider.
Either bike would require the same amount of effort to pick up.
The wet clutch definitely has the advantage when it comes to lever pull, smoothness, and longevity. The dry clutch is easier to service, has less inertia, and makes cool sounds.
An S4R desmoquattro version can be a bear in traffic, especially with stock gearing. The S4Rs and S4Rt testatretta versions are more docile at lower rpms.
I try to never take a passenger that is heavier than me for a couple of reasons. One, their inputs can have more of an impact on the direction of the bike than your own. Two, in the words of David Bowie, they can put your spine out of place.
Quote from: Loyalizer on April 22, 2009, 03:35:29 PM
[coffee] So here is my question, is the 800 more nibble yes or no? Do insurance companies charge less for bikes under 1000 for coverage? if the price difference in obtaining the bike is more than $1000 would the saving be better put in upgrading to higher grade suspension and brakes or whatever components one may fancy? Is the dry clutch apt to be more or less of a maintenance issue over the wet clutch? the s2r1000 is actually 992, so it does not hit the 1000 insurance catagory
[thumbsup] I guess Im thinking more bigger picture, as a whole, more bang for buck. Plus I have read many a time on this board that the 1000 or the S4R's are sometimes too cumbersome a bike for everyday traffic. (Im just sayin' that's what I been reading here) But, again, what do I know, Im on a 620. I just wanted something I could pick up if it fell. why do you keep confusing your point of view by throwing in s4r comparisons?
BTW - You and I are roughly the same body type give or take a few or more pounds (182 cm + 75 kg). Anyway, I was reading the manuel from my M620. It recommends not exceeding over 390 kg for total weight, bike (168 kg) included. So basically if you count me plus the bike, the heaviest passenger I can take on is 322.5 lbs. (146.6 kg). Just a little random trivia... ;)
I'm a work in progress, learning new things everyday...
silentbob has covered the rest....
[roll]
Well... when I get a new bike... maybe I will get that streetfighter.. I kinda like it but that beak-thing in the front must come off.
But it's probably too tall for me anyway (I have short legs.)
Well found my Ducati! 2007 S2R 1000 with 1,600 miles, totally stock. Picking it up next Wednesday and riding it home [moto] Thanks for all the opinions and when it really came down to it the price was way too good to pass up this bike.
first mos fat duc. because that bike runs like crap stock ( i have one) throw that $80 bad boy on and your in buisness
Quote from: MsTek on April 22, 2009, 07:17:03 PM
Well... when I get a new bike... maybe I will get that streetfighter.. I kinda like it but that beak-thing in the front must come off.
But it's probably too tall for me anyway (I have short legs.)
I have a pair of IZ's old motorcycle shoes you can have. He is getting shorter with old age and needed taller ones.
(http://shoes180.com/uploaded_images/platform-shoes-770638.gif)
If you have a dealer near you that has demos, take them up on it. Even if it means taking a Tuesday afternoon off to talk with them.
I had a 748, loved it despite it being the "little sister" to the 916 at the time. So, if you look into the 800, it just might mean you use the engine differently (or if you like revs). I like bags of torque, so I got the S2R 1000, and am now dealing with gearing. I got the S*R series, since Im fond of the classic looks of them.
Keep in mind that you'll be doing some mods to it, especially the exhaust. Just FYI, check into the systems and costs so you can factor that in as well. Good luck! I'm sure you'll have fun!