Title: 696 to 848 Post by: 707soldier on July 23, 2008, 05:19:32 PM I need everyone's input,
I'm seriously thinking of trading up from a 696 with full Termis to a 848. Dealer giving me $7,000 for my 696 trade in. Selling me 848 for msrp $13,454. Kindly discuss the trade in value I should I get for my 696. Go or No-go? Thank you in advance Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: desmoquattro on July 23, 2008, 05:21:19 PM Waaaaaaaaaaaay too much bike for a new rider. Although the 848's a great bike, I strongly recommend sticking with the Monster for a year or more. You'll get to the bigger bikes when you're ready: and by then the used models will be more plentiful.
Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: 707soldier on July 23, 2008, 05:25:02 PM Waaaaaaaaaaaay too much bike for a new rider. Although the 848's a great bike, I strongly recommend sticking with the Monster for a year or more. You'll get to the bigger bikes when you're ready: and by then the used models will be more plentiful. I understand, how about the trade in value? Is that reasonable and fair? Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: desmoquattro on July 23, 2008, 05:27:46 PM I understand, what do you about the value? With Termis? 7k is a bit low. As a general rule of thumb, you can get more for the bike and nice bits in a private party sale. Might take a bit longer and involve some hassle, but people generally say to remove the shiny bits, sell them separately (eBay, etc), and sell as stock a bike as you can put back together. But I can't emphasize the "848 is too much bike" thing too much. That Monster is a fine bike, and will keep you out of trouble ;D Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: 707soldier on July 23, 2008, 05:32:20 PM With Termis? 7k is a bit low. As a general rule of thumb, you can get more for the bike and nice bits in a private party sale. Might take a bit longer and involve some hassle, but people generally say to remove the shiny bits, sell them separately (eBay, etc), and sell as stock a bike as you can put back together. But I can't emphasize the "848 is too much bike" thing too much. That Monster is a fine bike, and will keep you out of trouble ;D You are 100% right, I'll follow your advice. That's why I love DMF, you can get reasonable advice anytime. Thanks Desmo, BTW are you going to the next Marin meet. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: desmoquattro on July 23, 2008, 05:35:23 PM You are 100% right, I'll follow your advice. That's why I love DMF, you can get reasonable advice anytime. Thanks Desmo, BTW are you going to the next Marin meet. I'm hoping to be there. Not sure about DMF night (at Zeitgeist in SF) next week though. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: TCK! on July 23, 2008, 05:38:31 PM Hayabusa.
In all seriousness, SBK's are better fit for the track. I found that unless I was riding the street like it was a track I wasn't comfortable and the bike didn't feel right. I was even more uncomfortable on the 848 then the 748. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: 707soldier on July 23, 2008, 05:39:00 PM I'm hoping to be there. Not sure about DMF night (at Zeitgeist in SF) next week though. Cool, I'll see you there. I'll bring 20's this time ;) Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: 707soldier on July 23, 2008, 05:41:58 PM Hayabusa. In all seriousness, SBK's are better fit for the track. I found that unless I was riding the street like it was a track I wasn't comfortable and the bike didn't feel right. I was even more uncomfortable on the 848 then the 748. I hear you, my 696 rides really good on the street. Many people tells me that the 848 does not ride good on city streets. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Kaveh on July 23, 2008, 06:10:08 PM I got things i want to throw in here:
1) The 696 is so now, that you might not get that much more than 7k in a private sale. If someone wants a 696, they might as well spend a bit more and get a fresh on from a dealer. 7k sounds fair for a no hassle trade in. 2) The 848 is waaay different than a 696, not talking power wise, just how/why you ride it. Obviously the 848 is a whole lot more powerful, but as TCK already said, it was meant for a whole different type of riding environment. Are you sure you want to get a sbk? If the issue was that you weren't fully satisfied with the power of the 696, I suggest going with a bigger monster and/or mods to make it lighter. Either that or a turbo Busa [moto] I rode a 1098 for a day and afterwards I thought to myself that I would only want a bike like that for the track. It's the ergos, power delivery and the ease of whipping a monster side to side that makes me want to have a monster over a sbk for the street. Long sweepers and track like conditions is where I would want to push the sbk to my limits. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Kaveh on July 23, 2008, 06:11:11 PM I forgot to add, if I was to get a ducati sbk, get the 1098. It's a bit more and totally worth it for the extra motor.
Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: duckwrench13 on July 23, 2008, 06:45:55 PM But I can't emphasize the "848 is too much bike" thing too much. That Monster is a fine bike, and will keep you out of trouble ;D +1!!!!! The 848 is entirely suited for high performance track duties. As a daily ride, in the greater urban environment, it's just not pleasant. 1st, maybe 2nd gear, pipes under your arse, cooking you while you putter along in traffic... the list goes on. Wide open track, or good roads, it's a champ! But as DQ has stressed, and taking into account your previous incident, it is far too much bike and power for a new rider. Just as an example of it's ferocity... it makes a good 30ish HP more than my 916! I've dialed in a few 848's, and they never cease to amaze me with their sheer power. If you know how to use it's power, and capabilities, it will be an incredible ride. If you don't, it will surely be disaster. But again, like DQ said, stick with the monster. You'll live longer. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: 707soldier on July 23, 2008, 08:02:26 PM +1!!!!! The 848 is entirely suited for high performance track duties. As a daily ride, in the greater urban environment, it's just not pleasant. 1st, maybe 2nd gear, pipes under your arse, cooking you while you putter along in traffic... the list goes on. Wide open track, or good roads, it's a champ! But as DQ has stressed, and taking into account your previous incident, it is far too much bike and power for a new rider. Just as an example of it's ferocity... it makes a good 30ish HP more than my 916! I've dialed in a few 848's, and they never cease to amaze me with their sheer power. If you know how to use it's power, and capabilities, it will be an incredible ride. If you don't, it will surely be disaster. But again, like DQ said, stick with the monster. You'll live longer. For sure, thats why I ask the pro before doing anything, Thanks! Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Desmostro on July 23, 2008, 11:16:48 PM Having ridden a monster for a couple of years and now an 848 for a few months I think I can speak to this question as well.
My commute is 3 miles in traffic. When I get there on the 848, my engine is 210F degrees and my ass in on fire [bacon]. Never had that issue with the monster. In fact I liked riding the monster in traffic as I felt I could dominate everyone, head up, higher than cars, able to see far, loose, agile, torchy as hell. Always able to out-zip everything else on the road. Easy to make radical maneuvers around everyone. The 848 is a dream out in Marin in the mountains. It however is quite delicate in traffic, more vulnerable. The riding position is head down, very low unable to see over the cars. The controls are made for the tiny movements one makes at 110MPH, NOT the big movements one makes in traffic. Its made without apology to change lanes with the flick of an eyebrow at 80. It really detests 35MPH. You have to really bend your wrists too much to do that kind of ridding. Its staunch race stance makes it incredibly touchy in gravely bumpy corners in the city. Its very easy to loose the front end out from under you. The breaks you use with one finger, very gently, or you're going to go over the front end on your nose. Much more touchy than the monster. For second you'd be throwing a lot of money away on the value of the monster which is brand new. Someone will always want to sell you something my friend. They will sell you an 848 this weekend and then sell you a Triumph the next weekend. They don't know what you want or what you need. A new bike wont take away the disappointments that come from learning. You have to get back on that horse and ride man. Tame it. Learn what kind of rider you are before you go spend a lot more $. You have one of the best bikes made. A Monster is NOT a beginner bike in my opinion. That would be a Ninja 250. What you've got is a balls out street-fighter of the highest caliber. It's one of the most versatile Ducatis which is why its so popular. Find out what kind of rider you are. Monster: Good for everything (http://www.planet-sports.de/images/products/large/l_converse_chuck_taylor_allstar_hi_canvas_red.jpg) 848 : Very specialized (http://g-ec2.images-amazon.com/images/I/51vVENa4kNL._SS500_.jpg) Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Michael Moore on July 24, 2008, 06:03:56 AM Nice graphics to illustrate the point! [thumbsup]
It's not the same bike, but for the same reasons my R6 pretty much sits in the garage unless I'm going to the track. It's way more pleasant to get to work and stuff on the monster or vespa. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: ptam on July 24, 2008, 06:34:14 AM Waaaaaaaaaaaay too much bike for a new rider. Although the 848's a great bike, I strongly recommend sticking with the Monster for a year or more. You'll get to the bigger bikes when you're ready: and by then the used models will be more plentiful. +1!!!!! The 848 is entirely suited for high performance track duties. As a daily ride, in the greater urban environment, it's just not pleasant. 1st, maybe 2nd gear, pipes under your arse, cooking you while you putter along in traffic... the list goes on. Wide open track, or good roads, it's a champ! But as DQ has stressed, and taking into account your previous incident, it is far too much bike and power for a new rider. Just as an example of it's ferocity... it makes a good 30ish HP more than my 916! I've dialed in a few 848's, and they never cease to amaze me with their sheer power. If you know how to use it's power, and capabilities, it will be an incredible ride. If you don't, it will surely be disaster. But again, like DQ said, stick with the monster. You'll live longer. +11tblyn. I think I was on my 03 620 for about a year and a half before I went to the S2R1K. Being that you are new, I don't think upgrading this quickly would be the best move. As it takes a while to develop good throttle and brake control, the 696 is going to be much more forgiving to mistakes with them than the 848 will. I notice my S4RS is much touchier than my 620 ever was. Right now the economy is soft and there is push to try and sell what inventory they've got. The MSRP deal for an 848 will always be there later. Although 7K does sound fair, you really are better off riding it a while first and in a year, if you want to upgrade, sell it then privately. You've already got some sunk depreciation costs so you might as well enjoy it. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Zee on July 24, 2008, 07:08:18 AM As someone who is accustomed to riding a 150rwhp, Ohlins sprung SBK, riding my former flatmates 695 was, well, it was just more fun. It wasn't as fast, didn't handle as well, was too low, too soft, didn't brake as well... But... IT WAS FUN!
Don't get me wrong, I love my SBK, but a Monster just gives me more giggles on trips down the road to the movies, the cafe, or just going for a spin around the block. Z... Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: pwndrew on July 24, 2008, 07:41:06 AM I have an 848 my last bike was an S2R 800. I've tried riding the 848 to work and it is a blast on the way there when there is no traffic. On the way home though it is complete hell. The bike feels like it was designed to torture you, like it's mad at you for taking it in stop and go traffic. It abuses your wrist and back and burns the living crap out of you butt and inner thighs. I paid $11500 for my 848 used with 400 miles. There is no way I would give a dealer $3000 more just to have a brand new bike.
Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Juan on July 24, 2008, 08:04:47 AM no yet..! [thumbsup]
Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: r_ciao on July 24, 2008, 11:33:15 AM 707soldier,
I have heard/read that's it's better to be a good rider on a slower/smaller bike than a bad rider on a powerful bike. The important thing, other than staying alive, is to know what kind of riding you want to do. The reason I bought the M696 is to ride in the East Bay hills, particularly in my area with little traffic, and wide open, smooth roads. It's great for doing little errands around town too. Just my two cents. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: ghostrider on July 24, 2008, 12:16:30 PM if you truly don't like the monster and are looking for something a little sportier have a look at the supersport line. the 750SS would be a good choice. SBK styling and monster power.
Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Desmostro on July 24, 2008, 12:36:02 PM if you truly don't like the monster and are looking for something a little sportier have a look at the supersport line. the 750SS would be a good choice. SBK styling and monster power. +1 That's an awesome good ride. I've ridden Desmoquarttro's SS (SuperSport) on many occasions and loved every second. It's sporty but better in traffic. Not great like a monster, but better than a SBK. Plus its a good long distance bike. I took D4's to the GP last year - no sweat. Very comfy. One note of caution: The turning circle is mighty wide. You'd better be real good at hammering out a tight turn with a confident lean. Challenging in traffic. Otherwise a surprisingly forgiving machine. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: ROBsS4R on July 24, 2008, 04:20:43 PM Stick with the 696 for a while.
The 848 ergo's are so much different and they are more exspensive to repair if you drop them ;D Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: ducnymph on July 24, 2008, 05:23:35 PM Hey 707, I have a little experience in this dept so I think I can share here.
I recently sold my 748 sbk for another monster. Way less torture and lots more fun! I figured out Ducati sbk's are just pure weapons of speed and that day-to-day riding is no fun. I basically only rode during non-commute hours in the evening and to go out the twisties. Overall, having a an sbk cut into the amount of time I actually rode because it was so uncomfortable. I had a 620 for two years, rode he hell out of it, loved it, but then decided I wanted something more. I got the 748 and it became a whole new deal. Learning how to ride it included several challenges: severe lean angle, dry clutch, hitting harder on the gas, and turning -- it freakin' hated turning unless my weight was shifted dramatically off the bars and off the bike! Not an experience for a new rider! This would have been a huge mistake for me if I didn't have several years of day-to-day riding and lots of twisties under my belt. Now that I have the new 696, I can actually chill out, but still ride spiritedly and not feel like I'm at a racetrack everytime I go out. Ideally, I'd eventually like to get another sbk when I have the time, money, and more garage space exclusively for track and sport riding. But for now the Monster is the most versatile and fun bike out there! The bike you have is the same bike I have now, and I'm an experienced rider and having a total blast on it! You can reach your threshhold on this bike faster then you'll ever be able to reach it on the 848, and there's a total satifaction in knowing that you can ride the sh$t outta something. The 848 has way too much room for a new rider to grow into. Learn how to ride the 696 well, then think about getting something else [thumbsup] Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: cloudseeker on July 24, 2008, 06:56:06 PM I want to try an 848...but like the previous poster, my experience went from: M750 748s M1000ds So far the last is by far my favorite. The sbk was awesome, but truly painful in traffic, or anything longer than about 2.5 hours. I've ridden the monster 12 hours with less suffering and more fun. On the track the 748 was another story...not painful, lots o' fun. Does sound fun though...what is it, guessing something like 40+% more horsepower over the 748, and lots less weight? Yow. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: kutter on July 24, 2008, 07:11:15 PM You might want to have a look at this thread, this discussion was had before, a few people that have had or still have both commented.
http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=2636.0 Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Vindingo on July 24, 2008, 07:45:06 PM I with Kaveh... Turbo Busa is where it's at
(http://www.pashnit.com/pics/tobin/seats/madcow1.jpg) I regret getting a 620... especially on the 7 hour ride through the SC mountains I did yesterday. It probably wouldn't have been as hard to stay infront of the kid on his brand new 1kRR if I was on a TB [moto] Throw some spray paint on that 696 and you wont feel so bad having Ducati's new "girl" bike. (im just bustin' your balls! small monsters kick ass) Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: sugarcrook on July 24, 2008, 09:54:39 PM The various reasons stated above are why I'm thinking about getting rid of my 848. It was an impulse buy and I regret it.
Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: sh on July 24, 2008, 10:18:05 PM I'm seriously thinking of trading up from a 696 with full Termis to a 848. Do you want more power? If so, buy a bigger monster. Do you want a track bike? If so, buy a 748 or 749. If you want something in between, buy an SS or a bigger monster with clip ons. Have you ridden an 848? It is not a bike for new riders. It has sick power and no tolerance for mistakes. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: kutter on July 25, 2008, 05:14:26 AM I'm getting a real vibe here that the 848 is not well liked. I will admit that I had to adjust my thinking some when I got it. It is somewhat more task specific than my Monster was but IMHO not to the extent that everyone here is stating here. I ride it almost daily, that is before the voltage regulator went out and it has to go in for repair. I commuted to work on it before I retired. It is something of a compromise but it is all in what you want. As I stated in the other thread I will get another Monster but for now I still love my 848.
If you cannot show some self control then I do not recommend buying one, it can be a very unforgiving scooter if you do not respect it. As for someone saying just go ahead and buy the 1098, well $3K is a pretty big difference and I cannot make use of all the power that the 848 makes yet and I suspect that if I get to the point that I can drive it to 9/10ths I will be happy so why would I need a 1098? An 848 is faster on a short twisty track, the 1098 needs longer straights to take advantage of its power; and on the road, either one of them will carry you well over 150MPH. How fast do you need to go? This is just all my .02 so take it for what it is worth. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Zee on July 25, 2008, 06:25:28 AM +1 That's an awesome good ride. I've ridden Desmoquarttro's SS (SuperSport) on many occasions and loved every second. Now that brings back memories. awesome bike, that... Z... Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: sally101 on July 25, 2008, 07:04:48 AM I'm getting a real vibe here that the 848 is not well liked. I don't think they are hating on the 848.. This is more of a "you'll shoot your eye out kid" thread for 707.. (http://img2.timeinc.net/ew/dynamic/imgs/041123/164724__achristmasstory_l.jpg) Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: TCK! on July 25, 2008, 07:27:28 AM I hate the 848 so much I set mine on fire:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQeRhQAaRdg Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: ROBsS4R on July 25, 2008, 11:22:20 AM It sure is impressive though
Quote The words "agile" and "refined" aptly describe the 848. At 168 kg (369 lbs) the 848 is an amazing 20 kg (44 lbs) lighter than its predecessor, and a significant 5 kg (11 lbs) lighter than its larger capacity brother, the 1098. The highly advanced 848 engine uses an improved method of engine case production in which cases are vacuum die-cast formed. While providing significant weight savings of more than 3 kg (6.5 lbs), this method also ensures consistent wall thickness and increased strength. Further refinements include a sophisticated wet clutch that offers 1 kg (2.2 lbs) less weight, a much higher service life, improved clutch feel and quiet operation. With the first twist of the wrist, the powerful rush of the Testastretta Evoluzione engine confirms that the rules have changed. The 848’s 134 hp is not only 30% more powerful than its predecessor, but it provides a power-to-weight ratio even better than the potent 999. It has 14 more HP than my S4R 996 :-\ but about 10 less torque ;D Yeah I know apples and oranges huh Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: desmoquattro on July 25, 2008, 11:40:08 AM It sure is impressive though It has 14 more HP than my S4R 996 :-\ but about 10 less torque ;D Yeah I know apples and oranges huh Interesting...Road Racing World did a comparo (in this month's issue) on the 749R and the 848. Their dyno run had the 848 putting out 113HP at the rear wheel. My S4R has hit 111 and 109 on dyno runs. But that's with an Arrow full system and a Power Commander, mind you ;D The 848 with Termis would probably win by an even greater margin. Great friggin' bike, but not one that's suitable for folks without a lot of saddle time. I'd say that's especially true with its slipper clutch: from the little bit I've ridden Desmostro's 848, it was a bit disconcerting to not have any engine braking when downshifting. I guess I need to test it more to be sure though...when are we going for a ride, Eric? Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Desmostro on July 25, 2008, 12:37:15 PM +1 on both of these.
I don't think they are hating on the 848.. This is more of a "you'll shoot your eye out kid" thread for 707... +1 ... As for someone saying just go ahead and buy the 1098, well $3K is a pretty big difference and I cannot make use of all the power that the 848 makes yet and I suspect that if I get to the point that I can drive it to 9/10ths I will be happy so why would I need a 1098? An 848 is faster on a short twisty track, the 1098 needs longer straights to take advantage of its power; and on the road, either one of them will carry you well over 150MPH. How fast do you need to go? This is just all my .02 so take it for what it is worth. The $3,k diff. from an 848 to the 1098 isn’t why I went for the 848 personally. I mean, if you can do $15k but just can’t muster $18k? [cheeky] Na! For two bikes that look almost identical they feel like different bikes. The 848 has a higher revving, lighter engine. Its spins up and it spins down way faster than the stock 1098 I’ve ridden. The 848 has less low end torch with stock gearing and bit lighter in weight. Those together give it a surprisingly different feel. When the 848 is in the higher rev’s there’s a huge wide power band that’s exquisitely smooth and motha-effing screams out of the corners. This subject – to bring us back is about fit. I LOVE my 848. Enough to not care that it [bacon] 's my ass in traffic. It’s where my ridding has evolved to over many years. They only way to know who you are as a rider comes with miles and miles alone. There’s no substitute IMHO. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Desmostro on July 25, 2008, 12:43:06 PM .... I guess I need to test it more to be sure though...when are we going for a ride? let's go mang! I got the Fri. Iwanagetouttaherebad's!!! tick tick tick... One more hour at wrk. I hate the 848 so much I set mine on fire: TCK! That's effing funny. [laugh] But yer not riding mine now 'k. [cheeky] Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: Cynic on July 25, 2008, 12:52:56 PM I don't think they are hating on the 848.. This is more of a "you'll shoot your eye out kid" thread for 707.. Definitely no hate for the 848, just a recommendation to perhaps not jump on one in your first year or so of motorcycling :) Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: duckwrench13 on July 25, 2008, 01:21:27 PM For two bikes that look almost identical they feel like different bikes. The 848 has a higher revving, lighter engine. Its spins up and it spins down way faster than the stock 1098 I’ve ridden. The 848 has less low end torch with stock gearing and bit lighter in weight. Those together give it a surprisingly different feel. When the 848 is in the higher rev’s there’s a huge wide power band that’s exquisitely smooth and motha-effing screams out of the corners. +1 to this assessment. My first, and continuing impressions of the way the 848 feels, in comparison to the rest of the Ducat SBK over the years, is that it has a very "Japanese" feel. By "Japanese" I mean that it has a very stiff...kinda like an over starched shirt sort of stiff...quality about it. It's motor is crisp, and has a very deceptive power band... very easy to get into trouble with. It definitely spins up quicker, and much fiercer than previous world super sport spec'd SBKs. The clutch feel is a cross between the traditional heavy pull dry clutch of a large bore Duc, and the smooth late engagement of a Japanese 1K 4 cyl. Power delivery is flawless! High rpm 5th gear to 2nd gear down shifts, and trail braking @ entry to a corner are almost idiot proof! Mid corner throttle response is very well behaved, and the drive out is brutal, by any definition! It's most certainly a machine that will eat you for lunch if you're not ready for it. In the hands of a skilled pilot, I can see this pup giving much larger capacity bikes a serious run in the twisties. My biggest gripe about it's "Japanese" qualities has to be the body work. 916 series through the last of the 999's, all you had to do was pop 10 Dzus clips and your plastics were off in less than 30 seconds! Now it's several overlapping/interlocking panels, and 30-some-odd little screws! If I wanted to take the panels off of an R-1, I would've bought an R-1!!! But hey, if that's the only thing I can gripe about on an 848, that's fine by me. I'll need further abusing of...uh, I mean long term testing of one, to put my final seal of approval on it. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: TCK! on July 25, 2008, 01:28:11 PM OMG Dzus should be a requirement by DOT... I fawkin' hate having a myriad of different allen key bolts and phillips screws hidden all over the bike... especially when they are screwed into plastic making it damn near impossible to back out the screw/bolt without squeezing on the plastic to give the teeth something to bit into... GRrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: ROBsS4R on July 25, 2008, 01:35:19 PM After reading duckwrench's assessment I want one even more ;D [thumbsup] +1 to this assessment. My first, and continuing impressions of the way the 848 feels, in comparison to the rest of the Ducat SBK over the years, is that it has a very "Japanese" feel. By "Japanese" I mean that it has a very stiff...kinda like an over starched shirt sort of stiff...quality about it. It's motor is crisp, and has a very deceptive power band... very easy to get into trouble with. It definitely spins up quicker, and much fiercer than previous world super sport spec'd SBKs. The clutch feel is a cross between the traditional heavy pull dry clutch of a large bore Duc, and the smooth late engagement of a Japanese 1K 4 cyl. Power delivery is flawless! High rpm 5th gear to 2nd gear down shifts, and trail braking @ entry to a corner are almost idiot proof! Mid corner throttle response is very well behaved, and the drive out is brutal, by any definition! It's most certainly a machine that will eat you for lunch if you're not ready for it. In the hands of a skilled pilot, I can see this pup giving much larger capacity bikes a serious run in the twisties. My biggest gripe about it's "Japanese" qualities has to be the body work. 916 series through the last of the 999's, all you had to do was pop 10 Dzus clips and your plastics were off in less than 30 seconds! Now it's several overlapping/interlocking panels, and 30-some-odd little screws! If I wanted to take the panels off of an R-1, I would've bought an R-1!!! But hey, if that's the only thing I can gripe about on an 848, that's fine by me. I'll need further abusing of...uh, I mean long term testing of one, to put my final seal of approval on it. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: duckwrench13 on July 25, 2008, 01:50:07 PM After reading duckwrench's assessment I want one even more ;D [thumbsup] Just to turn the knife a little deeper.... [laugh] http://www.youtube.com/v/7eM8MWhGAQw&fs=1 Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: TCK! on July 25, 2008, 02:12:14 PM That guy drags a whole latta toes.. got to get expensive for the shoes!
Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: ROBsS4R on July 25, 2008, 02:57:09 PM On a side note. Does anyone know anything about Competition Werkes Exhaust. At Laguna Seca they had a pearl white 848 in there booth with a prototype of there exhaust on it. It looked slick. Title: Re: 696 to 848 Post by: DanTheMan on July 25, 2008, 03:28:17 PM Just to turn the knife a little deeper.... [laugh] looks like a couple of storm troopers on the bikes [laugh] |