Finally got the Enkei front wheel yesterday for my 696...

[RC Fan]

yeah bike is total loss. only problem now is replacing it with a US Spec bike. DNA answer is I can't import Euro bike... they keep ignoring my question about buying a US spec bike here.

I hope you find a dealer willing to help!

[Spencer]

that's a real shame that ducati changed suppliers on the rims.
i guess they are trying to increase the profit margin on the 696.

That may not be the case, especially given their relationship with Brembo.  Do you know anything about the Enkei M.A.T. spin casting process.  Not that this was the reason but you may be surprised, this might not be a bad thing other than it not being an Italian manufacturer (are the others actually produced in Italy, Brembo has a forging plant in Mexico ya know).  Although it does make me wonder if I ever have a wheel problem will I be able to replace it with another Brembo wheel?  The way I understand US law I thought to sell a vehicle in the US you must be able to supply replacement parts for a minimum set timeframe.  If it isn't a direct replacement (fit and finish) are they not violating this law ?

.

[RC Fan]

Although it does make me wonder if I ever have a wheel problem will I be able to replace it with another Brembo wheel?  The way I understand US law I thought to sell a vehicle in the US you must be able to supply replacement parts for a minimum set timeframe.  If it isn't a direct replacement (fit and finish) are they not violating this law ?.

I am not sure, but that is an interesting point.

I have no issue with the wheel being Japanese, as I am a big fan of Japanese cars and bikes.  My issue is paying 'Ferrari' price for a 'Toyota' rim.  I priced a few other Enkei OEM motorcycle rims, and they were around $400 to $500 US.

As far as finish, my dealer had my wheel powdercoated to match my rear wheel.

[mrplease]

why were you replacing the wheel? wreck?

[Raux]

that does bring up a good point. is the enkei wheel being sold for the same price as the Marchesini? i think i would check on that with another dealer as well. doesn't seem correct that they would be the same price.
i'm gonna need to find out soon i think i'm rebuilding and need a front wheel too.

[RC Fan]

why were you replacing the wheel? wreck?

On my very first ride on my brand new bike I hit a pothole at 50 km/h.  The front wheel bent and broke.

[RC Fan]

that does bring up a good point. is the enkei wheel being sold for the same price as the Marchesini? i think i would check on that with another dealer as well. doesn't seem correct that they would be the same price.
i'm gonna need to find out soon i think i'm rebuilding and need a front wheel too.

My dealer sold the Enkei for the same price as the Marchesini.  I did call another dealer and they said there wouldn't be much price difference, but of course this is all so new that no one really knows.  I also tried getting the wheel directly through Enkei, but they are not available in North America.  You may have more luck with this Raux, as you are in Germany right?  It is worth a shot.

I did check the prices for wheels on other bikes that I have heard are also made by Enkei, and the prices were more like $400-$500 US.