Random 1100 EVO Questions / New Buyer

[El-Twin]

Hoping I can absorb some insight from the accumulated wisdom residing here.

I'm looking at buying the new 1100 EVO from the local dealer. I test rode one last week for some first impressions, and will probably take it out again to feel it out better. Some random questions I need to sort through:

1. Is too-lean fueling an issue? It seemed to surge and feel anxious at low speed (30-40 mph).
2. Is too-high gearing an issue? It seemed to lack some grunt and smoothness at low rpm.
3. Is "tuning" necessary to achieve optimal tractability?
4. Is the plastic tank a deal-killer? I'm nervous about paying premium dollars for a machine with a known design flaw.
5. Should I believe my dealer when he says he hasn't seen the expanding tank problem on the new Monsters?
6. Is 100 hp too much for someone away from riding for 30 years? I have 50,000 miles of experience, but it was all 30 years ago,
   on a Honda CB500-Four with 50 hp. I was a little intimidated when I put the 100 hp to the ground a couple of times.
7. Is the riding position suitable for a "slightly antique" set of arms, neck and back. My trips would all be within a 100-mile round
    trip.
8. Is there anything else I should be evaluating over a 20-minute test ride?

If my questions come across with a slightly negative slant, there's this: I love the looks and feel of the bike and think she would look great in my garage. Plus, everyone should have at least one Ducati in their lifetime.

I just finished the MSF class, so there's that. My riding would all be for sport and leisure; no long trips, commuting or bad weather are part of the plan.

Thanks so much for any consideration!

[polivo]

i know im going to get flamed for this.. but ill say it anyways since you asked. I dont tthink ANY of the current monsters are good beginner bikes. Yes, I know you USED to ride, but it was a long time ago.. but reaclimating yourself on a monster.. in my humble opinion seems un necessarily difficult. Ie: almost all of the first questions you asked, revolved around low end rpms/performance. Guess what? Thats just the way it is on the 696, 796 and 1100's. Theyre grabby, lurch, abrupt and ill manored below 3000.  BE forewarned.  But, those that still have their bikes.. love it. Its the "character" of the monster. They are simply torque beasts!  I recently rode my friends 2010 gsxr 1000. In first gear and second gear, it felt like a 600cc.   Its then that i realized, thats just the way the m1100 is. Geared for low end grunt. love it or leave.  but it aint changing much.

[Raux]

While I don't have an 1100 I do have a new Monster and can answer some of your questions

1. Is too-lean fueling an issue? It seemed to surge and feel anxious at low speed (30-40 mph).
Changing the front sprocket to 14t would bring the RPMs up out of the emissions area faster making it feel smoother and quicker

2. Is too-high gearing an issue? It seemed to lack some grunt and smoothness at low rpm.
same as above

3. Is "tuning" necessary to achieve optimal tractability?
It's hard to tune the low end because of the closed loop O2 sensor emissions area, but there are ways

4. Is the plastic tank a deal-killer? I'm nervous about paying premium dollars for a machine with a known design flaw.
The underneath real tank I've been told has been changed to a non-issue plastic. but since the tanks are cosmetically unimportant, surface ripples aren't an issue like on the older bikes. ONLY when a tank has problems around the fuel pump or mounts would there be an issue. I haven't had an issue and I have a 2009 that I bought in 2008, but I avoid E10.

5. Should I believe my dealer when he says he hasn't seen the expanding tank problem on the new Monsters?
Could be true, I've heard of only a few

6. Is 100 hp too much for someone away from riding for 30 years? I have 50,000 miles of experience, but it was all 30 years ago, on a Honda CB500-Four with 50 hp. I was a little intimidated when I put the 100 hp to the ground a couple of times.

Throttle control. With my 696, I have plenty of power, but two up riding it does work a bit. the 1100 would have been great for that for sure.
 
7. Is the riding position suitable for a "slightly antique" set of arms, neck and back. My trips would all be within a 100-mile round trip.

Bar risers, Gel seat would totally change the feel of the bike. The stock setup is semiaggressive in the seat, pushing you a bit forward. I run the gel seat and even when I had stock bars, it wasn't bad.

8. Is there anything else I should be evaluating over a 20-minute test ride?

How do you feel in panic situations with the bike is one thing I would check, hard breaking, swerving, etc.

[Jaelum]

I have about 800 miles on my EVO, so I'll throw in my 2c...


1. Is too-lean fueling an issue? It seemed to surge and feel anxious at low speed (30-40 mph).  I think they do come out of the factory a bit lean.  Before my 600 mile service, the exhaust popped alot on engine breaking (which I kinda liked, to be honest).  After the service, it seems to idle a bit lower and the power delivery is more linear. 

2. Is too-high gearing an issue? It seemed to lack some grunt and smoothness at low rpm.  Seems that all Ducatis are geared tall.  While some others have complained about stalling the bike because of it, I haven't had any issues with the gearing, per se.  The one thing I'm going to address soon is the clutch lever action - all the engagement is at the very end of the lever action.  Some may like it for quick-shifting (and clutching up the front wheel), but along with the tall gearing it makes starts a bit more effort than I'd like.

3. Is "tuning" necessary to achieve optimal tractability?  I don't think so at all.  Minor personal adjustments can be made, of course.  And lots of people have mentioned changing the front sprocket, but I don't plan on it.

4. Is the plastic tank a deal-killer? I'm nervous about paying premium dollars for a machine with a known design flaw.  No one is going to know if the ol' tank swell is going to affect the EVO for a few years.  I'm keeping my fingers crossed and non-ethanol in the hole.


6. Is 100 hp too much for someone away from riding for 30 years?  I've found the horsepower to be extremely manageable.  And the traction control should boost your confidence.  I'd think after a few weeks of riding you'll be settled back into the feel and will be glad that you have the extra ponies available.

7. Is the riding position suitable for a "slightly antique" set of arms, neck and back. My trips would all be within a 100-mile round
    trip.  I have a bad back from an injury that's 15 years old, so I feel ya.  I've taken two long trips (both around 150 miles) and my only had two complaints - my neck was a bit sore (I'm thinking from the extra wind blasting on my helmet which is a bit heavy - my last bike was fully faired), and my ass hurt like crazy (currently researching whether the Sargeant or Ducati Comfort seat will be my very next purchase).

8. Is there anything else I should be evaluating over a 20-minute test ride?  Something I didn't do was spend some time in a slower environment like a parking lot or some city stop-and-go traffic.  It'll help you decide if the low-speed character of the bike is something you can handle.  It'll also allow you to watch the other people watching you drive by on such a sexy bike 

If my questions come across with a slightly negative slant, there's this: I love the looks and feel of the bike and think she would look great in my garage. Plus, everyone should have at least one Ducati in their lifetime.

The Monster has a LOT of character and is a wicked-cool bike.  I bought mine for primarily for canyon-bombing (at which it is freaking AWESOME), but it also does a lot of commuting which I've found to be pleasurable as well. 

I spent several weeks reading and researching the EVO and several other bikes (the Speed Triple made it to the finals), and I'd be the first to say that it's not going to be the perfect bike for everyone.  But I haven't regretted my decision for one second.

[El-Twin]

Raux - I was hoping you would weigh-in, and your information clears up a lot of uncertainty for me. Thank you so much.

Jaelum - Ditto the above. Thank you for taking the time to (very thoughtfully) address all of my points.

polivo - A contrary point of view is also valuable. I will consider your cautionary advice.

[Hellraising-vtec]

Hi, i currently own a 1100 EVO. Jaelum & Raux have some great feedback. I personally have found the evo extremelly comfortable. I drove with my brother to tail of the dragon some weeks ago (500 miles) and it was a really smooth ride. We were riding for 8 hours straight. You have the capability to adjust the suspension wich is a big plus. Also there are better seats out there but to my understanding the actual seat that comes with the Evo is better than the normal seats that came with the previous monster. My brother has an 09 696 and i can tell you its much better. I personally love my bike. The only complaint and its not from me(from my brother). Its that its too tall. I personally think is perfect. Power wise, i think you can get used to it pretty fast. Remmeber also the 4 level traction control and the anti lock brakes. it will help you with the security

[ChrisH]

I have a very bad back, and I find that the riding position is fine on my 696, and it will be better on the evo due to the revised seat, riser, and bars. If you have 50k miles under your belt, you'll get used to it quickly I'd imagine, especially if you use the traction control and abs. Seems like a good buy to me if you are into what the monster is.

[El-Twin]

Hellraising-vtec / ChrisH - More great information to help me process this. I now have a real framework that includes safety, performance and comfort. I need this for a rational approach to my decision; although the choice to own a motorcycle is fundamentaly emotional, not rational (at least for me). As to whether I'm "into what the Monster is," well, ever since I became aware of them, both the old and new styles, I just can't take my eyes off of them. So there's that.

[Blackout]

I think Monsters are great for "beginners" as well as seasoned riders. Easy to ride, easy to work on. The evo looks like a great bike to me.

[El-Twin]

Blackout - I guess you could call me an "experienced beginner."  I just don't want to have something in the garage that scares me. I mean, I could treat it like a fine piece of ivory on a shelf and just admire it, but, for the dollars involved, I would prefer a trusty steed. But I think that "old feeling" and muscle memory would come back. That's why I'm enjoying all of your responses.

[Hellraising-vtec]

Glad to be of some help. I think the evo does not have overwhelming power but that was for me. BTW Where are you from? In cali they have some places that rent Ducatis. You can rent one and see how it goes before buying. Another one that is even better. The Diavel. Beautiful comfortable and powerful. It also has different modes for power. 

Riding Modes
The Diavel incorporates the very latest in innovative Ducati technologies, including the recently introduced electronic Riding Modes.

Selectable from the left-hand switchgear - even while riding - the choice of three pre-set modes are programmed to instantly change the character of the Diavel. The three modes are enabled by combining class-leading technologies such as Ride-by-Wire (RbW) and Ducati Traction Control (DTC).

    The RbW system administers different mappings to regulate power delivery by interpreting the rider’s throttle input, while the world-beating DTC uses eight levels of system interaction to enhance control by reducing rear wheel-spin under heavy acceleration.

    Although each mode has pre-set values of RbW and DTC, each of these two elements can be finely adjusted within each of the three Riding Modes and saved to create a personalised riding experience.

    Sport
    The Sport Riding Mode provides the Diavel rider with an adrenalin-fuelled 162hp ride and enables the rider to have full-on throttle response for maximum acceleration.

    Ensuring the full Testastretta 11° experience, the sport mode also lowers the DTC system intervention to level 3 for riders who prefer their performance a little closer to the traction limit.

    Touring
    The Touring Riding Mode is also programmed to produce 162hp, however, with a smoother, more user-friendly power delivery.

    Rear end traction is enhanced by increasing DTC system intervention to level 4, specifically intended for an enjoyable and relaxing ride ideal for long distance and ensuring maximum comfort for both the rider and passenger.

    Urban
    As riding on city streets can require more attention to the surroundings than to throttle inputs, the Urban Riding Mode instantly changes the Diavel to provide a manageable and confident ride.

    Power output is reduced to 100hp and DTC is further enhanced to level 5 to provide a higher system intervention during the most chaotic of stop-start traffic.

That would have been my choice no questions asked if i had the money. It is more expensive but it is also at another level. Great looks, great sound and fun to ride. If you have the money, that would also be one to consider. I still love my evo but would love to have a Diavel en the future.

[LA]

If you buy it, get the  (code 96458811B carbon cans w/removable db killers, dedicated ECU and open air cleaner) exhaust kit from Ducati performance and put a 14 tooth front sprocket on it before  you ever crank it up the first time.  You will never know the difference, but as they are delivered, they suck.

The 1100EVO is one of my faves right now, but not as delivered. 

Those two things aren't mods, they are really Ducati options, you can't go wrong.  This will transform the bike.

Thank me later.

LA

[Hellraising-vtec]

Sorry El-Twin, i know this is a thread to help you decide but im interested to know. LA why do you say it sucks from factory? I have an 1100 EVO stock and love it

[hillbillypolack]

Sorry El-Twin, i know this is a thread to help you decide but im interested to know. LA why do you say it sucks from factory? I have an 1100 EVO stock and love it

Because when you total up the 'necessary' items required to make the bike run properly you're staring down the barrel of between 2-3000 dollars.  I am not kidding.  Exhaust being the single largest expense.

It does transform the bike, but be aware that when you get the 'stock' bike, you are also looking at a number of accessories after the purchase which will enhance its performance.

Now take that total and compare it to BMWs, Triumph, KTMs and you may have a different idea of what you 'need' to pay for.  IMHO.

[Raux]

Because when you total up the 'necessary' items required to make the bike run properly you're staring down the barrel of between 2-3000 dollars.  I am not kidding.  Exhaust being the single largest expense.

It does transform the bike, but be aware that when you get the 'stock' bike, you are also looking at a number of accessories after the purchase which will enhance its performance.

Now take that total and compare it to BMWs, Triumph, KTMs and you may have a different idea of what you 'need' to pay for.  IMHO.

have to disagree on that.

ABS, TC, 100HP, complete out the door... pretty well sorted IMO

The addition of an exhaust, 14t sprocket or anything else is all owner preference.

do things like that help enhance the ride, sure... but needed... no