S2R 800 vs. S2R 1000

[Blackout]

I'm buying a 1000cc Ducati as my first bike because it is what I want. I will learn how to ride on the bike that I want to ride, period.

That's the only reason  needed. 

[booger]

Incorrect.  The brakes (calipers and master cylinders) are a significant upgrade on the S2R1000 as well.  And so you know, the clutch on the 800 isn't  a true slipper.  It is wet, and gets you some of the features of a slipper, but that's about it.

If I'm not mistaken, the 1000 masters aren't much of an upgrade over the coffin masters. They're both axial cylinders. You only think they're better because of the remote reservoirs, which tend to give that perception. It could be argued that the coffins have a more sanitary look. The only true upgrade to the masters would be radials. The four-pot 1000 calipers are marginally better than the two-pots, but really not as good as four-pads or radials.
The Adler Power Torque Clutch in the 800 is in all actuality a good thing to have. It's a safety feature designed to be more forgiving for new riders who forget to rev match whilst downshifting at higher speeds to prevent the rear wheel from locking up and causing an accident. Also, have you ever experienced the ridiculously low lever effort required? Makes negotiating traffic a pleasure. Calling it a fake slipper to malign it vs a dry clutch is missing the point altogether. Last I checked the S2R1000 was not so equipped.
Also, the adjustable front forks are better than the nonadjustables, but still need work to be good. In stock form they're just adequate  -  Progressive rate springs  and shitty valving. But hey they're adjustable at least. If you're serious about good suspension you will have to upgrade the S2R1000 front and rear just like you would have to on the 800.
Really the 13 more HP at the crank and the much improved torque over the 800 is the most compelling reason to choose a 1000 over the 800.  

[Jarvicious]

Regardless of caliper design, the 1000 brakes offer larger rotors as well, if I'm not mistaken and having had to put up with anemic brakes on my 800 I'd gladly go to a 1000.  It's not just one big thing, it's a handfull of little things that add up.

- adjustable suspension.  What suspension DOESN'T need a proper setup to be worth a damn
- better brakes.  Any additional stopping power is welcome.  Period.
- clutch- negotiable.  Wet is better for beginners, but he said he's ridden dirt before.  I don't ride in traffic often so I'd rather have the bite of the dry.
- 13 extra horses.....well that's 13 extra horses    It's not a difference between a Kawi 250 and a Busa.

Price may be an issues and if it is, just choose wiseley and I bet the overall cost will still point you towards the 1000.

[ute]

Back to the clutch ..if you have ridden 2 strokes ( dirt riding ) you will love the slipper ..just hammer it down just like riding a stroker

Nothing like it

[funkatronic]

I own both an S2R800 and a S2R1000  so apprciate im lucky as i get to choose which bike to ride everyday

i have put 320mm rotors, Brembo 4 pad calipers and radial masters from a 749/999 on the 800 as the stock brakes were poor and being heavier i also upgarded the forks to fully adjustable showas from an S4. if anything the brakes are a bit too severe now so the 2 pad, 4 pot calipers found on other monsters would ne fine

I love my 1000 very much , he extra grunt from the 1000DS never ceases to put a smile on my face but i have to confess that with uprated brakes and forks the 800 is in many ways a better bike especicllay if you do ride in town regularly and it is still more than qucik enough to keep up with most bikes especially in the twisties

the wet clutch is great, very easy on the left hand in town and forgiving of less than perfrct downshifting technique, the 800 engine spins up quicker and being lighter the bike feels more nimble and planted which is confidence inspring, (especially as a new rider)
buy a 2005-2006 S2R 800 , and you can easily upgarde the exhaust and remap the fuelling with a power commander III

The 1000 is a bike that will easily bite you if your ham fisted and the well documented surging issues resulting from the lambda sensor make it a bit of a pain especially at low speed in town, and should you want to upgarde your exhuast there is a whole  minefield of hurdles in your way

as many have said, the 800 will also be likely be much cheeper to insure

imho i think the 800 is a better choice for you but you may find that the cost of the brake and fork upgrades is prohibitve
if you do go for a 1000, take it very carefully

hope this helps

[Slow Guy]

Just had to chime in....I have had several Ducks and by far my favorite is my little S2R1000. Noise poise shows and goes!!!! 

[mjk778]

+1   Well put!  I absolutely love my 1000. 


You won't go wrong with either, but may wish you had the extra power of the 1k if you go with the 800.  This is what sold me on mine

[buckturgidson]

I am 49 and have owned many bikes through the years . 3 BMWs , an Aprilia , and various Suzukis . IMO the S2R 1000 is the closest thing to the perfect bike ever made ( with appropriate mods that is ) . Just the right amount of power , styling I prefer to the new Monsters , and the combination of DS 1000 and dry clutch give it that hard to define quality , I'll call it SOUL . Also , with a Sargent seat and full leathers for wind protection it's surprisingly comfortable for long rides . I applaud you for getting the 1000 to start , why buy something you know you won't want longterm ?

[Greg]

I am 49 and have owned many bikes through the years . 3 BMWs , an Aprilia , and various Suzukis . IMO the S2R 1000 is the closest thing to the perfect bike ever made ( with appropriate mods that is ) . Just the right amount of power , styling I prefer to the new Monsters , and the combination of DS 1000 and dry clutch give it that hard to define quality , I'll call it SOUL . Also , with a Sargent seat and full leathers for wind protection it's surprisingly comfortable for long rides . I applaud you for getting the 1000 to start , why buy something you know you won't want longterm ?

+1

I'm 48 and loving my S2R-1000 as well, it's not too fast, not too slow and has tons of character  

[lawbreaker]

I -HEART- My S2R 1000 !!!










.. but not as much as my 996!


... but VERY ClOSE !


Enjoy your ride.




Whatever you decide to ride..

 

[kopfjäger]

I like the 859 dry clutch model best.

[Raux]

I like the 859 dry clutch model best.

you still haven't given me a details parts list on the swap

[ducatiz]

"part swap" -- "the guy working the spares counter at the Bologna Ducati factory."