Just joined up and I'm looking for an education on Ducati. I've owned 17 different bikes over the years but never a Ducati. I currently have: '09 Kawasaki Versys that I've made into an adventure touring bike (poor man's multistrada); '06 Harley Roadking; '95 Suzuki DR350S; '94 Suzuki DR350S (for friends to ride) and my restored '77 Triumph Tiger. I've had sport bikes previously but I'm not looking to get a repli-racer. I really dreamed about getting the new Streetfighter S but I can't justify the price or the amount of power for street riding. I know, some of you are going to tell me you can never have too much horsepower but I just don't seem to need that much anymore. I have more fun taking good curves at 50 MPH, exploring the limits of traction and doing away with any chicken strips than blasting straight down a road at 150+ MPH. I'm now leaning toward the Monster 1100 or maybe the 1100S. The reviews I've read said the 1100 was a step up from previous monsters. How about some input on those models. I saw in the classifieds that a member has an 800 Dark for sale. Any input on the 800 you can provide would be welcome. Any other suggestions? OK guys, give me a Ducati education.
Considering your prior bike history, an 1100 sounds like a good choice. Here are my impressions of riding an 1100 for about a week about a year ago: http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=13509.0. (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=13509.0.) I compared it to the S2r1000, which itself is a generation ahead of the 800 and has better equipment on it.
The M800 is a good bike, but the 1100 is a much better one. The 800 is about two generations ago, but has the same engine as the S2r 800. One of the big downsides for me is that the 800 doesn't have the classic dry clutch.
For general information about the various models, check out the FAQ: http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=25126.0 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=25126.0)
And since you asked for a Ducati education, here's how Ducati's desmo valve system works: http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=25350.0 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=25350.0) and here's info about dry clutches: http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=20634.0 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=20634.0)
Can't go wrong with any of them for the kind of riding you want to do. If it were me I'd find a good M900sie and enjoy.
Wow, I read your review. Great info. Sounds like the bike for me. Found it funny, you said kinda what I did in my original post. "The ergos and handling make this a great twisties bike, but it's not for "throttle jockies looking for 150mph straightline speed."
That clutch might be a problem, I've always hated clutch action that had 90% of the take up in the last 10% of lever movement. Think I'd have to have an aftermarket seat also from what you said and from looking at the pictures.
I'll read about the desmo valve system and dry clutch later. I have a limited understanding about both already though.
I'm still looking for more input though. Not ruling out other choices yet. Spidey, you had a chance to ride the S version yet? Not sure if it will be worth $3000 extra.
S2R1000
period
that is all
nothing follows
If you like the corners and exploring the limits of traction, spend the extra money for the S model. For the money you get a way better fully adjustable susension. I only ride a little 695. I have almost no hp envy(I can hold my own fine in the tight stuff). Or clutch envy(I don't need the rattle it's the exhaust note I like). The suspension though?.... oh how I stare in longing at those Ohlins, and it's easy to find the limits of the lower grade shocks and forks, oh sure there are things you can do to help them, but they will never be what the Ohlins are.
In addition when calculating the cost of the bike add the cost of Termi's in. Ducs are fueled and set up to pass the Euro emissions and the Termi: exhaust/ECU/intake system REALLY wakes the bike up, more response, more hp, and more torque. Stock bikes leave me disappointed, the Ducs aren't really what you thought they would be until you get them breathing.
It's hard to go wrong with a Monster 1100, but you shouldn't forget about those lovely Sport 1000s. They're a little more aggressive in the riding position arena, but they're very capable two valvers, too. And if you don't mind used you might look for an older Supersport or similar.
And don't ever forget....you can't get an eDUCATIon without the DUCATI!! (I never get tired of that one. Yuck, yuck.)
OK people, I found a used 2006 S2R800D (thats the dark version) for sale with 1000 miles on it. I plan on going to look at it. What do I need to watch for? Opinions on this bike. I know that due to the finish it was a "budget" S2R800 but is the finish the only difference?
Look out for swelling gas tanks - http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=25074.0. (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=25074.0.)
I have an S2R 800 and I love it. It is in the shop right now for a tank warranty and a set of SBK forks.
Love mine. Suspension would be my biggest complaint.
Yea, I understand that the S2R800 was a "budget" bike thus the "downgraded" suspension. but for street riding is it really that noticeable or just when pushed to the max such as on a track?
The tank swelling should be noticeable right? What do I look for to find if it is inflicted with this malady?
Quote from: dennisd on November 02, 2009, 06:03:08 AM
Yea, I understand that the S2R800 was a "budget" bike thus the "downgraded" suspension. but for street riding is it really that noticeable or just when pushed to the max such as on a track?
The tank swelling should be noticeable right? What do I look for to find if it is inflicted with this malady?
if you're looking at a bike with a plastic tank (IIRC, all of the S*R bikes have them, as well as the sport classics), then you pretty much will have the tank swelling.
Quote from: dennisd on November 02, 2009, 06:03:08 AM
Yea, I understand that the S2R800 was a "budget" bike thus the "downgraded" suspension. but for street riding is it really that noticeable or just when pushed to the max such as on a track?
The tank swelling should be noticeable right? What do I look for to find if it is inflicted with this malady?
Check out the link I posted above. There are pics of my bike with a swollen tank. Symptoms equal tank bumpers no longer touching the frame, tank rubbing on ignition, inability to or difficulty with latching and unlatching the tank, unsightly ripples in the knee cut-outs, and paint cracks where the filler area has stretched.
I notice my suspension particularly since I am a large guy. Had the stock forks and rear shock re-sprung for my weight, but it is now overly harsh and stiff in the corners. The adjustability will help dial that in. I don't track it and I have notice the suspension in the twisties.
Quote from: dangler on November 02, 2009, 06:16:06 AM
I notice my suspension particularly since I am a large guy.
that's a good point... being ~150lbs sorta makes the stock springing not so bad.
Yeah, in your other thread I read some guy thought pregnant doging about the suspension way a way of measuring size. [roll] Fine maybe my peen is bigger than his. But at around 190lbs, I don't find in hard to get the rear end wallowing about in an aggressive corner.... or maybe I have a bigger e-peen.
First thing to think about when talking about education is that Ducati is in the middle of all education.
Just sayin'!
;D
The seller of the S2R800 wants $650 over the NADA book value, although, it is a good looking bike from the pics. It only has 1000 miles on it and he is the second owner??!! The rear "mud flap" has been removed, mini stalk blinkers installed and he has the carbon fiber seat cover installed. Just can't see myself paying more than book value. Not ruled out yet but....
Think I'm back to the 1100 especially after reading some more reviews. Still kicking all the options around.
$1000 over? Is he on crack? I could understand if it had all sorts of performance mods, but if it's basically stock, then I would walk away.
OK guys, you have been great so far but now I need some more educated opinions. PLEASE read and respond to my latest post #14 here:
http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=31464.msg546841#msg546841 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=31464.msg546841#msg546841)
I need opinions on a S2R1000 vs the new 1100.
Replied on the other thread. I liked the 1100S for the power and it felt really planted, but I couldn't get past the ergos.
I've owned 3 supersports so far. First was an '05 SS800 - my first bike at age 55. The second an '06 SS1000. Big difference. The 800 was a perfect first bike for me - plenty of motor. The decision was like this: heart said superbike and head said monster. So I compromised with the supersport. Superbike looks and riding position with 2v motor. After I learned more I decided to upgrade and not just for the motor. The 1000 has an Ohlins shock, Showa adjutable forks, alloy clipons, alloy swingarm, wider tires and the dry clutch. And the motor is a gem but the suspension being the main reason for the upgrade. Oh yeah, I like the color better too - red frame/black wheels. My girlfriend had a M620D that I loved to ride. The main issue there was the lowered suspension. I like the classic muffler on each side look and always wanted the pre S2R monsters, especially the 1000. Like someone said earlier look for a M900 you won't be disappointed. I recently picked up an '01 SS900 and it doesn't give up much to the 1000. Also, prices are very depressed right now and would think you could find a bike for at least $1K UNDER bluebook. They are out there. Having said all that I would love to have the new M1100 in standard trim or S. Good luck as it's all fun. It's hard to educate yourself before a purchase. After the purchase you will learn so much more about your bike and all the other stuff, especially Ducatis, out there.
Duc800 said:
QuoteIt's hard to educate yourself before a purchase. After the purchase you will learn so much more about your bike and all the other stuff, especially Ducatis, out there.
I know that from personal experience. I do try not to let emotion get the better of me but half of buying a bike is emotional. Whichever I decide to buy will be bike number 18 for me (it might replace one of the 5 I have in the garage or maybe just be number 6). Can you believe I've had 17 bikes and never owned a Ducati?
I've never owned anything else. I hope and think you will like it. My riding buddy has an '85 Honda V-4 Interceptor he has owned since new while in college. His other bike is a late 90s Harley touring something or other - can't keep them all straight. Last October he bought a 2003 999s and is now riding practically every weekend. His riding has improved tremendously. He said it was because I passed him on Palomar Mtn one time with my front wheel off the ground. I kind of doubt the wheel was off the ground but he said he needed more power. Well, he got it. But still not any faster than me up Palomar but a beautiful bike just the same. Having said all that and if you are set on a Monster I would still recommend a 900, 1000 or 1100 - especially with you past experience.
I've done the repli-racer thing in my "younger years" but after some illegals from Mexico pulled out in front of me about 28 years ago, I have a bad back and clip ons are a thing of the past for me. I need a more upright riding position. I also broke my wrist and riding a bike with clip ons makes my right hand completely numb; not good when you consider you use your right hand to brake. I remember climbing off my TL1000S back when I had it (my last bike with clip ons) and reaching for the tab on my face shield. I couldn't find it because I couldn't feel it. That's when I decided I'll never have clip ons again. Plus, I can't afford to make my chiropractor any richer than he already is. [laugh]
Well, I feel blessed then. Have you looked at the ST? It's on my wish list for something different and capable of longer days and overnights. And I still love the Monster and hope to have one someday. I think the new 1100 would be about perfect. So many bikes ...
Yes I considered an ST in the not too distant past but I have a dressed up '09 Kawasaki Versys that I've made into a bike similar to the Multistrada. I've put lots of bike protection gear on it and have Givi hard bags. It is my adventure touring machine. I can take it on gravel roads but still have lots of fun on the paved twisties with it. It actually handles pretty brilliantly. There are no chicken strips on it's tires; absolutely none! I also have a Harley Roadking for when I want to do long easy more than one day laid back trips. The Monster will be my "short" ride hooligan bike (but hopefully not go to jail bike). [moto]
If you have wrist problems then you might have a similar issue with the 1100.
Quote from: duccarlos on November 03, 2009, 06:49:07 AM
If you have wrist problems then you might have a similar issue with the 1100.
I tried both the 1100 and 1000, both seemed to put more weight on my wrist than I wish it did but... ya' gotta do what ya' gotta do. Actually, for me, the 1100 seemed to put less pressure on my wrist, maybe it's the bend of the bars or something.
OK, for those of you that have been trying to help me make up my mind; please follow me over here:
http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=31531.0 (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=31531.0)
Quote from: dennisd on November 03, 2009, 03:10:46 PM
I tried both the 1100 and 1000, both seemed to put more weight on my wrist than I wish it did but... ya' gotta do what ya' gotta do. Actually, for me, the 1100 seemed to put less pressure on my wrist, maybe it's the bend of the bars or something.
Actually more than the bend in the bars it probably feels that way because it's a shorter reach to the bars on the new 1100. If you sit on one after the other you'll notice that the older Monsters feel noticably longer in the seat to handle bar measurement leaning you forward quite a bit more.
It was completely different for me, but I'm glad it worked out! [thumbsup]
OK, I need some more education. Since I only have spool type swingarm stands I need another work stand. Is this the one I need for my 1100:
http://www.pit-bull.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=PBMSA&Product_Code=F0005-000&Category_Code=MSducati (http://www.pit-bull.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=PBMSA&Product_Code=F0005-000&Category_Code=MSducati)
Yes, the single sided one.
Quote from: duccarlos on November 06, 2009, 06:16:33 AM
Yes, the single sided one.
Thanks, I understand that; I mainly was asking about the pin. Is the lift in the link above supplied with the correct pin to fit the 1100 in addition to the bikes listed in the ad?
It should fit