Ducati Monster Forum

Hi, as most of you know, I've been riding the BMW K1200S for a number of years.   Well, I've got a vibration at around 4K-4.3K that is really starting to irritate me.

To make a long story short, it looks like it will be around 2K to fix my K1200S.  It's got 12K miles on it, and I'm thinking that a new bike may be the alternative.

I rode the K1300S, and it's good, but I'm wondering if a complete change is in order.

Northern Euro Motorcycles has a couple of 848's in stock.  What does everybody think of the 848?

Will it be too anemic after the K1200S?   Is the 848S worth the cost difference, or should I be looking at an 1148?

Does anybody know how the 848S stacks up against the Nicky Hayden 848 edition?

Hell, who knows?  I might even show up to Ducati of the Rockies on a <gasp> Ducati!

Thanks in advance!

An 848 will be anemic compared to your 1200. It will also be very light and nimble compared to your 1200.
A 1198 will be astounding compared to what your used to if you give yourself time to get acclimated to the differences.
They are so different that you may have a hard time changing your perception.

What's an 848S? nope, no such animal, the Hayden edition is a paint job. It's up to you if that is worth it or not. I love it.

All twins vibrate in a lower frequency than fours. You need to understand that going in. Sometimes they feel a bit crude IMO.

A duc is not for everybody. I don't know you but I think most Beemer guys would have a hard time appreciating a Ducati.
They just have a different approach to the whole sport. Ducati's fast revving raw and outrageous engine is 180 degrees from a smooth sophisticated BMW four.

Personally I wouldn't be satisfied with an 848 on the street I'd have to go for the 1198, but I think an 848 would make a great track bike.

Why don't you have a look at the new 1000RR? I rode it last week and it's outstanding!

PS also keep in mind that almost all new Ducs have fueling hicups and will not work with a powercommander without a bunch of trouble and expense.
Ride one first and pay close attention to low speed and traffic conditions. Not all bikes are the same.

Flynbulldog, your points are very valid.   I still plan to test ride an 848, but I think you're right in that it won't be a good fit for me.

I want to test ride a Streetfighter S.   It seems that if it 'fits' you (e.g. feels good for your body size), it's a good ride.   It's also in the performance range that I'm used to.

Regarding the S1000RR, I don't want to buy a first-year bike.   BMW has a history of tweaks, and small changes in follow-up years that makes the first year units unattractive.

This is the reason I'm looking to replace my K1200S -- the K1300S has the fixes that aren't in my K1200S.    BMW is learning, but I don't want to drop 13K on a bike that may encounter problems later.

I also like the new 7500 mile maintenance interval in the new Ducs.  That drops the ongoing maintenance cost significantly.

Thanks!

How about a 1098/1198?   Better power, same looks as 848

You know anyone trying to sell a 1098S?  ;D