Ducati Monster Forum

Don't whup me here fellas, I'm just askin'

My plan for this year, which has been cooking for about a year now, has been to saddle-up a new 1100 EVO this spring and ride her home. I worry about the plastic tank, the too-lean fueling and the too-tall gearing, but I'm still smitten by the thought of a sexy Italian mistress that the wife actually approves of. A redhead no less.

That Ducati mystique, that crazy trellis frame, that torquey big twin and intoxicating exhaust note really do it for me. I'd just have to change the exhaust, swap the ECU and gear her down lower and go from there.

Expensive? Yes. And some might question the wisdom of buying an expensive new machine that's not quite complete. As they say, it's the "character" that you buy into.

So here's my problem....

Last weekend I met a Triumph Street Triple R in the dealer's showroom and it was love at first sight. I've been thinking about it all week and even told my wife that the Duc has some competition. So I come humbly before the forum seeking guidance.

This machine is the Triumph version of the Monster. It weighs 416 lbs wet, wrings out 105 hp from 675 cc's, cost $2000.00 less, has fully adjustible front and rear suspension and comes complete, with no fueling issues. Plus, it has a metal tank.

Am I wrong here? Is this blasphemy? Can one of you please set me straight? Just don't whup me, please.
 

both are great bikes, make sure you ride both to find out which you like more, there are differences to the engines.  the triple of the str has more torque than a i4 but it still needs to be wrung out compared to a big twin.

the str will be cheaper, cheaper to insure, but be low on torque compared to the 1100.  also missing abs/dtc if that's something that matters to you.  the str will also be more comfortable for longer distances due to the more upright riding position prob.

i was also asking myself that same question when i bought my 796 but in the end i got the duc because it's simply better looking.  btwn the 796 and then str, the str is overall the better machine, but the looks of the monster were too hard to ignore.  and the str vs the 1100evo... now it's more down to price and engine characteristics.

I heavily debated both bikes, but in the end ordered the Street Triple R.  I am currently awaiting it's arrival.

If you read the reviews, the Street Triple is very well liked.

Have you visited the two main Street Triple forums?  By and large those guys are very happy with their bikes.

At the risk of sounding like a renegade, could you map me to those two forums?

Sure thing!

Triumph675:  http://www.triumph675.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=38 (http://www.triumph675.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=38)


TriumphRat:  http://www.triumphrat.net/street-triple-forum/ (http://www.triumphrat.net/street-triple-forum/)

If the links aren't working, let me know.

It sounds like you have done your homework so you know what you'd be getting into with either bike.  Know also that even with the mods you mentioned for the EVO, you may do something similar for the Trump.  It's a disease, I know.

But only you can tell how you like the power (grunty torque or a bit revvier) and the overall balance of the bike.  Test ride em.  Think on em.  You can't go wrong.  It's a new bike either way, so enjoy the 'problem' of choosing a new bike!!!   ;D

The links work fine. Thanks!

As "thought" says, torque characteristics and power bands are quite different. Don't blame Ducati for lean running and gearing, blame the EPA and DOT. A Monster makes nicer noises stock though by far and IMO the triple is butt ugly. The triple needs a bit of fine tuning overall as well. Ride both at length and you won't need to ask us. Never cared for buzz myself, no matter how mild.

As far as the headlights go, I totally agree with you. I'm trying to get past the googly eyes, and I think I could.


I'm asking here because this is where the accumulated wisdom resides. Work with me here....

You should look at a streetfighter!

 :)

Wasn't this enough? I'd have bought 3 evos by now if I'd read this?  8) http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=50869.0 (http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=50869.0)

That was July. Are you still "rusty"? Good bottom end torque always wins in spades for me. Just fit a 14T and a bar riser. You probably don't need anything else except possibly a Sargent seat.

How heavy and tall are you? Maybe a Rizoma bar and 796 riser instead?

Seriously.  Try to ride both before you go any further.  Your decision will be easy after that.  They are both European, handle well, light weight, and both are different from your average Japanese bike.  So they are often compared to each other.  I think the Street Trip is liked by those who are used to inline four engines.  

Hopefully you can find an 1100 EVO demo that is already setup with Termi's and the DP ECU.  And one more thing, you will never get past the googly eyes.  Can you imagine hooking up with someone with funky googly eyes?  You might be able to look past it one time, but it would only get worse as time passes.  A lot of people say the tophat fairing makes the STR headlights look better.  They are fooling themselves.  It looks as stupid as ever, like putting lipstick on a pig.  I'd get a headlight replacement if I owned a Street or Speed Triple.
(http://www.triumph675.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=22286&stc=1&d=1303801668)

Looks pretty good with a classic Monster headlight.
(http://www.bikeexif.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/triumph-street-triple-r-5.jpg)

I didn't care for the headlight on my 696 either.  If you do get the Street Triple, get the optional flyscreen.  Those new headlights have grown on me.

Have you read the reviews for the Evo?

Burn the blasphemer!!!

I test rode the Evo, Str 3, and Spd 3. The one I liked the least by a lot was the Street. The Spd was very good, but I was not used to the power band. The torque came in all of a sudden around the mid range. It surprised me a few times when I was leaned over on a turn. They told me that mounting the Arrows really helps to even out that torque. The Evo felt like a dumb down version of the 1100. Where as the original 1100 was a beast, with the dry clutch and instant torque, the Evo is more refined. Power delivery was very smooth with no surprises, but there when you really needed it.

So between the Evo and the Street, 1100 hands down. Between the 1100 and Speed, I might go with the Speed for the viciousness. Between the Speed and the SF848, I might go with the SF if they truly fixed the riding position.

What didn't you like about the Street Triple duccarlos?

The Streetfighter 848 has a powerful appeal. I just like the looks and riding position of the Monster better.


The wife's kitchen remodel kicked the Duc into the waiting room.  :) She's trying to bust out.


 [laugh] [laugh] You're crushing me here, but I don't mind. You could be right.


Those actually look much better. Wasn't aware of those options.




 I've read everything probably ever written about the EVO. Except for the small matter that I don't actually own one.



Arrows would definitely be part of the program. I especially like the low-mount 3-into-1


Only the googly eyes.I really like what Travman said about a headlight replacement.

Yes, the Arrow 3 into 1 is key! 

Check out the pictures on both forums--you may grow to like those new headlights!

I sat on the new '12 sf848/sfs1098 at the nyc moto show and I really couldnt tell that much diff btwn the new position vs the older position.  The right foot still gets kicked out (maybe a tad less than before) and I couldnt really notice any diff at all with the new risers (supposed to be 20mm higher).

That being said, I dont have any issues with my '10 sf's seating position.  It's def more aggressive than the monster (more leaned forward) but it's not like having clip ons at all.  And for the right foot being kicked out... I finally bit the bullet and just got the Zard full system.  It high mounts the exhaust and clears up the foot clearance issues completely.  Also shows off the SSS ;)

Also, a lot of people on the sf forum of ducati.ms put in risers/rizoma bars... and then later moved back to the stock bars/riser.  They said that it just seemed that they needed to get used to it.

I rode a 1098 SF for about 20 minutes.  I thought it was comfortable.  I was surprised the new SF848 was touted as being more comfortable with a 20mm rise in the bars (20mm is less than 0.8 inches, that's barely a change).  I didn't think it needed any change.  Sometimes they change things slightly so the manufacturers have something to talk about when selling new motorcycles.  Sort of like the 1000 & 1100 Monster's hp rating.  Every edition supposedly makes 5 more horsepower, but when you see the results from the dyno they still make 82 rwhp. 

I did notice one foot was kicked out a little because of the exhaust.  I forgot about it as soon as the ride started. 

My issue with the right foot being kicked out on the SF is after a long ride.  The most comfortable position for me is to actually rest the boot on the heat shield which doesnt let me adjust my foot position at all.  If i dont rest it on the heat shield, it feels like my foot is being twisted out of place really far.  This leads to my right knee feeling a bit funky after a day out stuck in mostly one position.

I found the 848 riding position more comfortable than the SF. No idea why. if it hasn't changed, then I would take the Speed Triple home instead.


Aside from the looks, it felt too much like an inline-4. Where the Speed was grunty in the mid, the Street seemed to have almost no torque. I was always expecting for the torque to kick-in, but it never happened. The Speed on the other hand, OMG, when it hit the power curve, it almost threw me off. It was fantastic.

I don't know; like all things, you just have to know how to maximize it.  I really miss my old Daytona and would love to have another one in the stable.  One of my riding buddies here also has one, and you'd be surprised how well that little motor works when you run it the way it wants to be run.  Apples and oranges I know, but I have to admit that Triumph's song is starting to call me again more than Ducati's...

Don't count out the Honda CB1000R. I test drove all 3 and drove home the Honda. 3K miles later I do not regret it. And I've yet to see another one.

does this forum allow blashemers with STRs to post?

Hopefully  [evil]!  How do you like your STR?

 :P

Ha ha.  haven't got it yet - deal's not done.

Both songs are sweet. Like the siren song of the River Nymphs in the Coen Brother's "Brother Where Art Thou."

I put a lot of miles on a Honda in the past, and as far as machinery goes, they are almost perfect. But now I'm craving a European flavor. I'm looking more for soul than perfection.

Are you able to test drive the bike at the dealership?

The salesman was very accommodating. He suggested pushing it outside for a little action but, since it was cold and wet outside, I deferred to think on it a bit. I felt like a tramp having such unfaithful thoughts.

Go for it!  It's always a good idea to check out the competition ;)

Tramp indeed!  ;D

Since you live in Santa Barbara, fit a 14T before you take delivery. They aren't a lot of fun at town speeds but on all the valley/canyon roads at your doorstep will be great fun. Just don't grab a handful until you are aimed in the right general direction. The front wheel will head for the sky!

With this bike mainly you can ride the canyons in 3rd and 4th and hardly ever need to touch the brake. NOT so with the Triple or any Jap 4. Your choice of course.

A point well taken, sir. That was my first impression on my test ride, when I thought to myself "You must be careful with this throttle."


You're quite correct, Santa Barbara is pretty much laid-out for sports cars and motorcycles. And I'm not too concerned about town performance anyway. It would be strictly a valley/canyon machine.

Do you think a 14T combined with a 41T rear would be too low?

No..., unless you plan to do 125 MPH on the 101... [leo]

Having owned an '09 Daytona and the current owner of an 1100 EVO, I would say that you'd be happy on either. The killer for me is the ridiculously short range on the Duc. All Ducatis have stupidly small tanks. Pushing it to get 117 miles out of a tank is just lame. STR will be more around the 150 range (if not more). The sound of the smaller triple at speed is a thing of beauty as is the sound of the EVO working hard. You can't be wrong unless second guess yourself.

Oh, dumb as it sounds, the other thing that's always bothered me with Triumphs is that the headlights are attached to the frame and don't turn when you turn the bars. They also used to have a really hard cutoff (in the EU style) for even the high beam so the Daytona was totally crap for riding at night because the high beam just lights up the same area as your low beam only brighter. The '08 Sprint ST that I had fixed that problem a bit but the Duc is better for night riding.

 ;D  My goal would be to be able to use 6th gear on the 101. Say, to be able to cruise at 70-75 in top gear. This way you could actually use the whole transmission, rather than throw a gear away.


If I could get 120 miles out of a tank, that would pretty much make my day.


That doesn't sound dumb. It bugs me too. But I could overlook it because of what you said about the sound of the triple at speed.

Without a 14T you will be lugging the bike in 6th at 70. Cruising would be more like 85+ in 6th with a 15T. My gearing is identical to the evo on my 796. If you want to use 6th in the U.S., mostly a 14T is mandatory. Big $38- for a 14T. Have the dealer include it.  ;)

Are you going to try the Street Triple R?  We impatiently await your findings [popcorn]

That was to fuel light, went further than that before I filled but it's always been an issue for me.

The cut off for the Triumph lights is actually a really big deal. Think about it, you're riding at night, coming up to a corner, you lean the bike over and even with high beam on, your lights don't actually light even into the corner, let alone around a bit. I personally think it's really unsafe. I had my Daytona high beam adjust all the way to the top too, hopefully the STR won't be that bad.

Wouldn't this be the case with most or all bikes with a fairing?

 :) [Dolph] I'm trying my best.


This does sound like a big deal, a bit like "Damn the torpedos, full speed ahead." But this will be basically a toy for me, so it won't see much night shift work.

The sound of my evo at 7000 rpm is just so much better than ANY i4 thru the traffic!

Well I guess it's a good thing that the StripleR isn't an I4.

Killer, totally love this look.

Hmm, maybe it's time to visit "another" dealer. [evil]

It's funny, but one of the best headlights I've seen (photoshopped) on a STR is the new monster's.  Works really well with the bike.

Rode one today! Very impressed.

I can't elaborate right now, because I just got home from the ride and dinner is coming up. So a big  [thumbsup] to the day I had today, and I'll try to follow-up soon.

PS: My dilemma just got way more complicated.

Hmmm...

Look at it this way. If you grew up with high center of gravity Jap 4's, maybe that bike feels more like "home". The evo is all about torque, (of which it has massively more), low CG and a heartbeat.

Too bad your ride wasn't back-to-back. Some people "get" an L-Twin and some don't. Maybe you belong on a Triple. It has Kawasaki genes.

This shouldn't be all that intellectual. Buy what feels "right" and go with your "gut". I'd prefer my 796 on Rt. 33 out of Ojai. Just less work for me. Your mileage may vary... http://binged.it/x2XHgG (http://binged.it/x2XHgG)

You would think but it's not. The Daytona had a particularly aggressive cut on the low and high beam. Compared to even the 08 Sprint ST, there was a very clear difference. I've also owned an 06 GSX-R750 which worked as I expected, i.e. the low beam had a good cut in it so that you wouldn't blind anyone (as you'd expect) and the high beam lit everything up so that 1. you could see down the road and 2. you could see around corners with the high beam on. I've read that Triumph tend to have a more aggressive cut than most and that was true in my experience with the 09 Daytona and the 08 Sprint ST.

Took my EVO and my wife's 796 out for a spin today, amazing the difference between them.

Excellent!

A few years ago I was seriously considering the Street Triple and almost bought one but decided to buy an SV650 instead.  Loved that bike and rode the hell out of it for 3+ years then I sold it and bought the Monster 1100 EVO which I absolutely LOVE!  I just can't get past the new look of the Street and Speed triple, they just look like someone ripped the plastics off a sport bike and left the headlights... as if the whole design was an afterthought.  Maybe that was the point but I don't get it.  Your bike should be something that is beautiful to behold and fun to ride.

That said, it's your money.  Get the bike you think you'll be happiest with and enjoy it! 

Cheers!

Ouch! I'm feeling a little heartburn coming on.


I did cut my teeth on the Jap 4's, so it's a natural feel for me. But I especially like your comment about the Ducati "heartbeat." Thump...thump...thump...thump... Yes, I can dig it.  :)


Haha... That was one of my preferred routes "back in the day." In today's world it would probably be the outer limites of my range.

I appreciate your comments very much.

Can you give us the details now?   What did you think of the Street Triple R?

 :)

You have a "dog in this fight"? [roll] Why did you sell your 696 for a 250? Looking for something more explosive now?

As previously noted, I have a 2012 Street Triple R on order.  It was supposed to be in sometime in December.  As I won't get out until April likely, I am trying to live vicariously through others.

I didn't sell my 696 for the XT.  The XT is my other bike.

Seems I'm getting through then?  ;) Between the earlier thread and this, you certainly have a wide range of inputs from evo riders. We're still comparing apples and oranges here.

Usually the bike mags compare the Street to the 796, not the evo. They prefer the Street by a hair but I'm not convinced they know how to ride a Ducati. I'm old and ride twisties solo and the evo was more than I needed. The 696 didn't have enough. My main goal was "nimble" and torquey.

BTW, a Ducati is sneaky fast in case you missed that. They don't howl like a swarm of killer bees. They are never "busy". You'll look down at the clock one day and you'll be doing 100. On my 851 that was more like 140, with a lot more to go.  ;D

We used 33 for two product launches. Otherwise I wouldn't know. Looking at a map, I see that would be a longish loop for you. You could always have lunch in one of the bars on the golf course though. I would..., but I'm retired!  ;)

 :) :) I can throw some details out there for sure, because now I think I'm more qualified. But I want to process it overnight so that I can give a logical response.  ???  Ha! That in itself doesn't even make much sense does it, since motorcycles are more much emotional than logical (at least for me). 

But I really appreciate the great responses you are all providing. If I added-up all of the $.02 worth that's rolled in, I'd feel like Uncle Scrooge in his Money Bin. Sorry, but I guess I'm showing my age with that remark, but this is helping me a lot.  ;D   

Yes you are sir, and I approve this message.

There MAY have been some truth to this...in 1994.

-Jeff

After all..., I did say genes. Fairly common knowledge that Bloor got some help with the original triple on his visits to Japan. Heard this again at Mallory Park in 2006, just down the road from Hinckley. So..., unless John Bloor told you personally something different... ;)

Here's my riding impression of the Triumph STR.

First, the dealer has a perfect test circuit at his disposal. It's a 9-mile loop that includes city streets, freeway, country highway and a canyon section. The STR moved out smoothly without any fear of stalling, as happened to me the first time on the EVO (much to my embarrassment). There was absolutely no sign of too-high gearing or too-lean fueling as on the Duc. The test bike was fitted with Arrows slip-ons and a reflashed ECU, so that may have helped. Plus, the Arrows looked and sounded hot.

Going through the gears, tha transmission was silky and smooth with pleasntly close ratios. My biggest impression of the gearing was that in 6th gear it felt as though there should be another gear left to reach the top, and acceleration was quite strong without needing a downshift. This is in marked contrast to the Duc.

The power delivery was exhilarating, encouraging a mad charge up through the gears. It was very user-friendly in the way it put the power to the ground, and was happy at all rpm's. Really, the triple is a little jewel of a motor, and the sound of it at speed is a thing of beauty.

This brings me to the torque vs hp argument. Really, for me, it just didn't matter. I'm a big fan of torque vs sheer hp, but the Triumph felt so powerful and nimble that I felt totally in control (after a few miles) and could call on the power whatever my intension might be, and it was right there where I wanted it. Very smooth and very linear with no surprises. I know that this is not everyone's cup of tea, but I was very happy with it. It was really great fun!

So my summary so far is that the Duc is still the sexy Italian mistress with the throbbing heartbeat, while the STR is more like a wild animal with the manners of a swiss watch. Googly-eyes and all.

So my next move will be back to the Ducati dealer for a refresh on the EVO while the impressions are still (somewhat) fresh.

Thanks for the interest that some of you are showing. It's really encouraged me  :) :)

That sounds just about right. I find the STR to be outright boring to ride, while the Speed is a whole different animal. I would buy the Speed Triple in a heart beat. Actually, I'm in the market for a bike down here and if I can't find a Monster that fits my wallet, I'll be looking at a Speed.

I love the Speed as well, but it's a little too juiced-up on steroids for my purposes. Although if you tell anyone that I said that, I'll have to deny it.   ;D  [laugh]

Wuzz

Thanks for the details!  Your report echos what I have read in many reviews of the Street Triple R.  I am very excited to get mine!

They had to do all that to it to get it to run?  :) Try the evo with a 14T, DP ECU and Termis. Otherwise, you'll be missing the point of a head-to-head comparison. All Triumphs need tweaking as much as Ducatis. Got one in the garage right now with about 90% dialed in after two years of fiddling.

How $$$ was that STR, as equipped, BTW?

There's nothing I would rather try more than what you just described. I just don't know where to find such a dialed-in evo. And it does make the head-to-head comparison much more problematic. I just have to work with what's available out there.


I have the numbers at home. I'll let you know.

I'll disagree with that comment.  The Daytona I had, along with three other stock Triumphs I've ridden were FAR better sorted than any current/recent gen Ducati that I've been on.

From what I have read the stock Street Triple runs fine.  I have also read that air-cooled bikes have a harder time reaching the emission standards, which is part of the reason the Ducatis run better with the various mods.  Also, the Triumphs can have a new 'tune' downloaded for their ECU, the cost of which is minimal.

Cost is actually free, as the software to do it is shareware, and you can download the map from all sorts of places.

And I though Ducati riders had the Kool Aide market cornered...  ;) Talk to my Triumph mechanics who owns 5 fully-sorted Hinckley classics. He still likes his Triumphs of course. Maybe you should buy another.

I'd love to buy another.  The 675R is on the short list.  But then again, I've had quite a few Ducatis as well, starting with a 916, 996R, S2r800 and the current Sport1000.  I stand by the statement that my Daytona ran FAR better stock than any of the Ducs I've owned.

The Daytona is a really sharp bike!  I admired one at length the last time I was at the dealership [drool]

I have to agree with this. I didn't even think about putting a pipe on my Daytona, it just rocked right out of the box. My EVO has a 14T front sprocket and I'm considering exhausts and flashing a spare ECU I have lying around. The Sprint I had was boring but still didn't need any help getting it messed with out of the box (although, it was second hand, came with shitty pipes that I needed to take back to stock for the 8800 mile road trip I did on it but it was back to stock map for that too... blah blah blah).

Ducati aren't good at making their bikes meet the emissions regs. Some may not like me saying that but it's true. Whether it's just the nature of the beast (twin, small factory, etc) I don't know but it's a fact.

Oh, don't be embarrassed about stalling the EVO, common problem, I've stalled mine more times than I've stalled the 3 bikes I had prior. It's stall-y. ;)

I test rode the Daytona, I'm starting to see a pattern here, anyway, I did not dig the ergos. It might be cause I'm short. I was more comfortable on the 848, but please don't take my word on this since I was more comfortable on the 848 than the Street Fighter.

I barely restrained the urge to sit on the Daytona and the nearby Speed Triple...both are really nice.

I always wanted to try the 675. So when they brought the Triumph truck I wasted to time to sign up. That day I test rode the 675 and the Street Triple. I left disappointed because I really wanted to like the 675, just couldn't get past the ergos.

The way I see it, btwn the evo and the str it's one of those "does my head choose or my heart choose" kind of things.

If the head chooses, the str is prob the better choice.  Cheaper insurance, prob better gas mileage, metal tank, more comfortable overall ergos, pretty well sorted out from the get go.  But... funky looks and you'll always be looking at monsters thinking, damn, maybe I should have gotten that.

If the heart chooses, then it's the duc... because it just looks a whole lot better, uses higher end parts, etc etc.  Also, that 2v duc sound is pretty amazing all the time, from idle to redline.  The triple only really starts to sound amazing when it starts to scream imo.

For myself, which bike to get always comes eventually down to what my heart wants because, the way I see it, if your brain chose the smartest path all the time, you wouldnt even be riding a bike at all ;)

Thanks. Now I feel less ham-fisted. I guess that two cylinders + light flywheel = stall-y.

[
My conclusion precisely. Ducati = heart, str = head. The universal conundrum.


 [laugh] [laugh] You're killin' me here!  [thumbsup]



Well said sir. I see some wisdom in this remark.

Probably doesn't help that the clutch effort is greater too.  ;) If you are looking at the STR, why did you not look at the 796 which is the usual comparison? Bigger is better I guess...  ;) At my age and weight/size, I just didn't need the extra cost and go, but I got the same ABS standard, same frame and wheels and swing arm, etc. The 796 just needed a cheap Ohlins and 14T. 58 ft. lbs. down low vs 50 ft. lbs for the STR up high. Says it all for me...

As for fueling, it could be richer and I may tweak that slightly. Out-of-the-box, it had one minor fueling glitch which has disappeared at 1,500+ miles. Ash rides better than 99% here, (maybe not as good as Alan Cathcart though!  ;)). http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/motorcycle_manufacturers/ducati/7733926/Ducati-Monster-796-review.html (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/motorcycle_manufacturers/ducati/7733926/Ducati-Monster-796-review.html)

Of course, he's a Brit and gives the edge to the STR naturally. "They all do that".  ;)

It's 67 F here and I'm riding to lunch. If I don't it will probably snow next week...  :'(

Here's the str $$$ breakdown as equipped, per Curmudgeon's request:

MSRP = $9600
Arrows slip-ons = $1000
Flyscreen with visor = $400
Destination charge = $495

$11,495 total, less tax and license. Roughly the same as the evo without the termi and gearing swaps.

Which is too much for this particular bike, I think, because it's full MSRP on everything, including accessories, for a bike that already has 1,200 demo miles on it. All during that critical break-in zone.

Don't get me wrong, I love the 796. But this would probably be the last serious toy I'll ever see, so I want to push the limit a bit. Because, well.... just because. It's that head vs heart thing again.

If it is a demo, how come the dealer won't move on the price?

We didn't get to the dealing phase. At least not yet. This was just a "lets get acquainted" date.

I meant those prior 3 bikes put together btw! I've sorted it out now, but jeez did that thing like to stall.

You'll be eyeing the STR thinking the same thing if you get the Duc, it's human nature.

I eye STRs now and wonder if I'd be happier, I also eye a lot of stuff, like a Ninja 1000 which comes with ABS in 2012. I'd have got that if it had ABS when I bought the EVO. But I change bikes every couple of years so... ;)

Likewise, BTW. And unlike you, I was trying to replace my favorite backroad scratcher of all time, but in a package an old fart can ride without a staff chiropractor.  ;) The 796 as configured does that mission just dandy. Just got back from leaving an older but fully sorted Triumph Sprint for dead..., and we both have roughly equal riding skills and "dark pasts".  :)

Read my intro thread and all will become clear. http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=50673.msg929505#msg929505 (http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=50673.msg929505#msg929505)

How did you finally sort it out? Does a 14T + Termi slip-ons + break in miles = fix?

I'm concerned about this probably more than anything else, because I worry about stalling at an intersection, with traffic bearing down on me.

Ha! I thought I sensed a dark past lurking. Too many miles on too many bikes will do that to you (or so I've heard).  :)


That's quite a list of hardware to your credit.  [bow_down]  [thumbsup]

Decisions, decisions eh?  Not a bad problem to have though!

This is what surprises me most about all of the responses:

Not one forum member felt that the metal vs plastic tank issue was a worthy selection criteria.  :o  ???

I think that this says a lot, but I'm not sure what. Brand loyalty?

Otherwise, thanks to the forum for a wealth of viewpoints and information.   :)  [thumbsup]

For the new monsters/ducs the plastic tank really isnt too big of an issue as the tank covers hide any cosmetic issues.  It's bad on the older duc's (older monsters, sbks, sc's) because when the tank swells it messes with the paint and the fitting of the tank itself.

Can only speak for myself regarding the new Monsters with tank covers. At the time I purchased mine, my large dealer had replaced none of the newer Monster tanks. This may vary regionally. That was after three years of the newer tanks of course.

As a precaution I'm only running 93 pure gas in the bike which I can obtain ~ hour from here. Whenever I go out that way, I pick up 20 Gal. in race cans and stabilize it. Minor inconvenience since I've been buying race gas for my Morgan since new to blend. If and when I can no longer get 93 pure gas, I'll try K100 fuel treatment which appears to eliminate water from ethanol at normal levels.

Whatever the case, you are covered for 6 years from date of purchase if I read the settlement correctly. If I ever actually had to replace a tank, I'd just pick up a PEX tank from Europe. They cost a LOT less than the painted ones.

Your mileage may vary but I don't see it as a big deal. I passed on an S2R1K due to this issue because I knew it was a ticking time bomb and was glad I did because the handling of the new Monsters was closer to what I was after anyway.

One more reason you should buy the Street Triple R! [evil]

Troll?  8)

Can't wait for you to get yours so that you can start complaining about it. ;D And yes..., I've read through all your old pasts.  ;)

So I'm a troll because I disagree with you, or because I didn't find my Ducati perfect?  OK, whatever.

From what I can gather, Ducati doesn't make a bike which is right for you. After 40 years in retail, selling vehicles nobody needed, I blame your dealer for selling you one.

Nevertheless, you don't own a Monster and aren't looking to buy another but you are still on the DMF why??? Just to muddy the water?

Will follow your experiences with your new Triumph on the R.A.T. Forum.  ;)

Peace! I know that RC Fan was just living vicariously, and that's ok with me.  [beer]

So?  I don't own a monster, and have zero intention of buying another one.  There are quite a few people on this board that this description can apply to; a lot of people come here for the community that exists, regardless of what they ride.

I for one would go for the STriple over the Evo.  And yes, the metal tank does factor into that decision.

Everyone is welcome in this forum whether they own a Duc or not.

Liking Triumphs doesn't make a person a troll.

If there were trolls involved I'd have to use this.

(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3156/2581933821_723edbc915.jpg)

 ;D

Settle down people.

Not the spray!!!!!!

 [laugh]

You just learn the bike. I think there's more to it than it just being different, i.e. I think there's something particular to this bike that makes it more inclined to stall but you can work around it. The 14T helps but it's really only going to make a huge difference to a newer rider. I don't have anything else done except milage which probably helped a bit too.

I think, over all, the EVO is a fantastic bike that I wouldn't even consider getting rid of it, or picking an STR if the tank wasn't ridiculously small. I know I keep going on about it (sorry) but it's really got me thinking of trading it. My priorities are different from other people's and literally and figuratively speaking, YMMV.

Did you try the Evo again?

Yes, last weekend. Loved it.  [thumbsup]

Like night and day compared to the STR. Whereas the STR (which I also loved) delivers power in a seamless, linear fashion, like a fine Swiss watch, the EVO hammers out power in a in a rough-edged, angrier kind of way. With a pulse that's impossible to overlook.

True, tha gearing is too tall and the fueling is too lean, but those things can be fixed. The Monster, take it or leave it, is just not designed to be sold quite complete. It leaves enough blank canvas to fill-in to your own vision.

So the head says Triumph for being the "better" more complete machine, but the heart says the Duc. The heart wins.  [Dolph]

Excellent!  They are both great bikes.  When are you picking it up, and posting some pictures?

If only it were so simple....

Now I have to figure out finances, which could take a while. Owning such a machine may be frivolous (since I CAN live without one). But the $$ are certaintly not frivolous.

I was hoping to score a "wintertime" kind of a deal, but I don't know if that's happening ....   :-\

At least I finally know which direction I'm going.  :)

Or start looking for a used m1100.  You'll save quite a bit that way and there is very little diff btwn that and the Evo.  5hp, DTC (ABS too if you get a m1100 without ABS), and the new header design.  But I'm guessing it'll be at least 5k cheaper and probably already have some mods on it.  And if you get lucky, you can snag a m1100s and get the ohlins which the evo doesnt offer.

Hmmm... You were still comparing a tuned STR with Arrows vs a stone stock EVO, right? That triple might rip but in stock trim it has less torque than a 696!  ;D Swiss watch indeed...  8)

Drop a 14T on the thing and start racking up the miles. It takes 1,000 miles to get it half way broken in! With all that power, you might not need a Termi kit. I don't feel the need.

"thought" has a point about an M1100 too if you can find one with ABS. Having not had a big bike before, the DTC could be good.  ;) You will understand it better when you get out into the canyons and learn to use the engine/transmission instead of the brakes. Never been a fan of "hyper" multis myself although many riders are...

Right. But I think it's a fair comparison on a cost basis. The tuned triple is still a bit cheaper than the stock EVO.


It's a good point for sure. But I like the idea of both ABS and DTC, of which the Triumph has neither. If an 1100S fell into my lap it would probably be game over. But the local dealer, which is just 3 miles from my house, has 2 or 3 EVOs just sitting there ripe for the plucking.

Faulty logic?  ???  ;)

ALL the Monster vs STR comparison tests have been with the 796, NOT an 1100 evo. The STR wins by a bit on suspension and peak power, and in one case, that was an STR with Arrows and flash. The 796 has ABS standard and $650 fixes it with a 14T and cheap Ohlins. I may still do O2 optimizers but have no need of a Termi kit as it's already too fast.  [leo]

Given your age and riding background, a 796 ABS would be enough Ducati for you IMO. As the evo and 796 both weigh the same. I have no problem with "excess", especially as you will have the DTC..., and torque is a lot easier to modulate than a sudden burst of BHP.

Wish MY dealer were only three miles down the road. I should hate you!  ;) (Mine's 140 miles and only the first half is fun road...) Do you live anywhere near the Biltmore?

There is alot more than just HP on stat sheet and $.  Often time, the intangibles will tip the scale one way or another.  I am glad that you found something that will get you excited when you sit on it.  [beer]

I'm just different I guess. I have my own playbook.   8)


My feelings exactly.  :)


Don't hate me! You've actually been quite helpful.  [thumbsup]


In the opposite direction actually, on the Mesa.

 [thumbsup] [Dolph] [beer]

Ahhh... So, in other words..., instead of comparing apples and oranges, you prefer comparing apples and kumquats?  8)

Found the Mesa area on the map. Not all that familiar except the restaurant district because I followed other vehicles around most of the time and we each had a walkie-talkie. You mean you're not on the movie star tour? ;D

There was also a large house on a private road on a cliff overlooking the water which we used for dinners but I have no idea where that was now. My son knows Santa Barbara much better because a retired CEO pal let him borrow his fleet of cars and bikes whenever he went to Pebble Beach for the concours and auctions. That guy died, so now he flies into Santa Cruz (?) and last year he bought a car to drive and show which he later sold on eBay back East. Good racket if you can do it! ;)

I actually thought I was comparing apples and oranges. But kumquats will work. Triumph = shiny apple, Duc = furry kumquat


No, but I did see Steve Martin coming out of a downtown boutique last week.   [laugh]


We have a good collection of those around here. Meanwhile, on the streets you mainly see marauding hoards of scooters with lots of Harleys sprinkled in.

The DTC is unnecessary IMO. I'll only buy street bikes with ABS from now on.

I absolutely love my M1100 EVO.  It completes me.  [cheeky] [Dolph]

Oh, and I have 3 Ducati dealers within 1 hour of me.  The closest one is only 15 miles away.

+ 1  [thumbsup] [thumbsup]

I tested a lot before I decided to buy a Evo, among that STR for long runs, owned a -10 675 Daytona but it was stolen so as you understand we looked at Triumph again. I love my Evo, it is so fun to ride, lots of torque, very nice and steady at the curvy roads and it's beautiful [thumbsup] I also own a Aprilia RSV4 Factory APRC and that is a fantastic bike but, I still take the Evo most of the times......If you also look at the details, the Ducatis are better built and better finish if you ask me :)

Done deal. Have Duc in garage. A redhead.  ;D

I decided to make an offer this past weekend. So I went in, laid a number ($$) on the counter, and we wound up meeting in the middle. The deal includes a 14T sprocket that I'll have installed at the 600 mile service.

I know, pictures or it didn't happen. I'll get around to that as soon as I can figure out how to do it. Meanwhile.... vrooom.... vrooom.  [Dolph] [thumbsup]

Congrats!  You'll love it. :)

It'll be a bit cranky at first, but you'll see that the more miles you put on it the happier it gets.  For me, I found that it didnt get out the break in period till it hit 4k miles.  After that it just became butter smooth.

Oh, and sliders... get em on right away ;)

Congrats! 8)  [thumbsup]

Typical American impulse buyer. Couldn't wait an hour to get the sprocket on before taking it home.  ;D

Seriously, once you get the 14T on, rack up some miles before you decide to mod anything. Miles make a difference. They did a pretty good job with the stock bike otherwise. I'm always impressed with how quiet the headlight, mirror, bikini fairing combo is at higher speeds. With all the torque that bike has, learn to use the transmission to do a lot of your work and leave the brakes for quick stops and minor course corrections. You'll see what I mean when you get the hang of it.

On Tuesday run by the shop and have them adjust the preload on that rear shock and fiddle with the settings to match..., unless you weigh 225#.  ;) The sag in the rear should match the front. The bikes are delivered set up for a light rider and lighter passenger. This will make a large difference too.

If you get tired of "arrest me red", there are easy "options". :)

Thanks! And yes, she was a bit cranky. But I expected that, so it was no problem. I know she'll smooth out in time, like you say. ;)

And right, frame sliders and a new helmet are the first priorities. Is there a favored brand of sliders?

 [laugh] [laugh] Impulse my a$$. As you know, I've been thinking about this for a year now. If it weren't for this forum, I might have forgotten all about it.


Right, I'll wait till she smooths out before I do any serious fiddling. And I was surprised how that little bikini fairing actually makes a difference. And I do have a lot of "getting the hang of it" ahead of me.  ;)

Yup, suspension set-up is a top priority. I noticed she was a little on the stiff side this last weekend. I don't know how to go about a proper set-up, but that's what the dealer is for.

I really like the "arrest me red" actually. The bike and the car are now a perfect match.  [thumbsup]

Speedymoto, motovation, and trex are all good options.  I personally like the speedymotos best though.  Rizoma makes really nice looking ones but they are around 2x the cost of the others.

Happy bike day to you!


I had Speedymoto frame sliders, and Rhinomoto bar-end sliders. 

Thank you!  [thumbsup] I know you'll enjoy that Street Triple too, when it comes in.

I am sure I shall.  The waiting is getting difficult as bike fever is setting in!

Congrats El-Twin, I just became an Evo owner myself.  Having a great time so far.

Congratulations. Now where are those pics?  ???

Just make sure the sag is measured with you on the bike. It should be even on both ends. Then adjust the damping screw to match that spring setting. After that, if it still feels stiff, back off the damping screw one click.

Guards Red Porsche? Something Italian? (BTW, more "civilian" Ferraris in Italy are, or were, silver rather than red.)

If you're feeling flush, consider a Schuberth C3 if it fits your head shape. VERY quiet on a naked bike when it's broken in. Wish I had one. Still using a Concept but have been using Schuberth or their BMW System variants since ~ 1982. Favorite helmet of everyone from Olympic bobsledders to F1 drivers...

Okay, I know this is lame, but I haven't figured out how to do that yet. But I plan to practice.


Keep the good advice coming. I'm taking notes here.  [thumbsup]

Proof at last!

(http://i43.tinypic.com/97msjp.jpg)
(http://i40.tinypic.com/16hn1g5.jpg)
(http://i39.tinypic.com/x1df2p.jpg)

I'm halfway to my 6oo mile service.

The one thing I would bring up is resale value, the duc is going to hold value much better than the str.

 [thumbsup] Nice! Just like mine! BTW, are you colonials allowed to remove those Godawful reflectors?

Sure. Yet another spring project.

Very nice!  Thanks for the pictures!

"Spring Project"?! Just tear the damn things off! [laugh]

Glad we got pics but that could be anyone's EVO...  :P

This might come as a shock to you..., but some people actually like the way the factory designed the new bikes.  >:( And if and when he finally gets tired of red..., Logomania has some lovely bespoke options, hint, hint...  [evil]

Oh, I wasn't suggesting that he should have already modded it, I was making fun that he just grabbed some random pictures of an EVO and posted them as his own. Just being silly though. ;D

 [laugh] [laugh]  Thanks for clearing that up for me.

I actually had the same thought. "Well, jeez, I want to post some pictures, but this is going to look like anybody's random EVO. Maybe I can at least make the background interesting."

 [laugh]

Maybe you could be in the photos too? Doesn't really matter though, I was just being an idiot. ;D