Ducati owners ... Didn't want to threadjack the Duc Snowboards thread

[Tommy D]

I'm looking to buy a Monster 620 come January. And it sounds like there are some Ducatisti (Is that right?) lurking on this forum.

Is there anything I should know before I go down to the local dealer and pick one up? For instance, I'm under the impression there isn't any haggling when buying a m'cycle like there is buying a car.

The Multistrada is very appealing too ... Maybe there's room for two Ducs in the stable! :lol:

PS - If anyone has a line on a used Monster in the New England, New York/tri-state area, let me know! I've been looking in the classifieds, but no luck yet.

[Speedzilla]

I'm looking to buy a Monster 620 come January. And it sounds like there are some Ducatisti (Is that right?) lurking on this forum.

Is there anything I should know before I go down to the local dealer and pick one up? For instance, I'm under the impression there isn't any haggling when buying a m'cycle like there is buying a car.

The Multistrada is very appealing too ... Maybe there's room for two Ducs in the stable! :lol:

PS - If anyone has a line on a used Monster in the New England, New York/tri-state area, let me know! I've been looking in the classifieds, but no luck yet.

Tommy, surf on over to the Ducati section of my message boards at www.speedzilla.com/forums and check the classifieds.

What type of riding will you be doing? How much riding experience do you have?

[Tommy D]

Good site, Speedzilla. I'll be lurking on there a bit!

Mostly I'll be riding the backroads, but I may end up commuting as well.

As for experience, I have little motorcycling experience, but a LOT of bicycling/skiing/snowboarding/autox/racing schools/DE track days/etc. I know: Motorcycling is unlike everything else. :o I have taken the BRC with the MSF.

Anyway, I've been looking around, and keeping track of what has been said on this forum, and a Monster fits my requirements rather nicely. So does the SV650.

[cliffh]

interesting perspective.
http://www.onewheeldrive.net/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=345&Itemid=126

[Tommy D]

Hey Cliff! Thanks for that article. Now I want an MTS 620. :biggthump

[cliffh]

I rode the DS1000 version and almost traded in the Sprint. I need both.

[Jack Michaud]

I love Ducatis, and if you just want a Ducati and nothing else will do, then I'm sure you will love the M620. However the reality is that the SV650 pretty much spanks it in most quantifiable regards, except probably cornering.

[astrokel]

Jack's prolly right and on top of that the cornering capabilities are probably not all that different with the exact same wheel base and most likely a very simliar weight distribution (similar engine layout, naked bike, etc). And on top of all that the Suz would most likely have a much longer maintenance cycle (valve train adjustments, etc) with the train adjustment WAY more of a pain with a desmo system. But then again you can't beat the magik of a dry clutch with a ventilated cover with everyone pulling up and asking if your bikes broken and if you need help :rolleyes: .

BTW the desmo systems inherent advantages don't really show up until you start venturing into the upper reaches of the rev band... well with a little twin you might actually be getting into that territory but with the disavantage is that you might need more frequent valve adjustments. Anyone out there know if this has been taken care of with the more modern machinery? I know that there was a significant change from the 888 series to the 916's (I don't know about the two valvers). A bit of advice would be to ask about service costs and service intervals at your local dealer especially if you don't know how to do the work yourself. With a Duc this can be quite a long term expense if you ride the bike a lot.

[Jack Michaud]

Jack's prolly right and on top of that the cornering capabilities are probably not all that different with the exact same wheel base and most likely a very simliar weight distribution (similar engine layout, naked bike, etc).

Maybe, but I kinda doubt it. The M620 is sporting that legendary "confidence inspiring" Ducati chassis. And upside down forks are just badass. I've also heard that stock SV suspension components are typically swapped out for nicer bits from Race Tech, Fox, Ohlins, etc, once your riding advances.

[Tommy D]

Interesting stuff, keep it coming! :)

One of the first things that grabbed me about the Monster/MTS is the comfort. Everything is EXACTLY where my hands/feet fall; it's almost like it was designed for me...

I had heard about the service being costly to own, but I do most of my own service on my car, and figured I'd do the same on the bike. I've never done valve adjustments, but I have enough aptitude (And more importantly, car/bike mechanic friends!) to get the job done.

FYI: the Monster and MTS both have wet clutches now. So sorry, but now you won't get the magic of a dry clutch. :p

I'm not ruling out the SV(classifieds are my friend), it's just I've wanted a DUC for as long as I can remember, love the styling, and the sound.

[cliffh]

"I've wanted a DUC for as long as I can remember, love the styling, and the sound."

well, then that's it then. end of conversation. The SV is a moot point. motorcycles are emotional - if your motorcycle doesn't move you emotionally then dump it and get the one that does. The DUC shall be yours my friend.

[astrokel]

motorcycles are emotional

AMEN to that! That's why my bike's a Guzzi ('74-V7sport). ok, laugh, but it's really a beautiful machine :1luvu:

BTW if you are so inclined and have the time adjusting a desmo is actually kind of fun but it is involved and requires a micrometer (which is cool). One thing for sure is that the two valver is a lot easier than the old gen four valvers. I have a video that I don't need any more of how to adjust the valves if you end up with the Monster. Just email me if you want it...

[Tommy D]

AMEN to that! That's why my bike's a Guzzi ('74-V7sport). ok, laugh, but it's really a beautiful machine :1luvu:

I know exactly what you mean by that: I feel the same way about early 70's Porsches .... '73 RSR anyone? :1luvu: The closest I got to owning one was a '77 Targa. There's something about the sound of an old air-cooled boxer motor that's just ... Yummy, cozy, and giddy.

[astrokel]

Ah AIR COOLED!!! You might have just clinched it for the Monster. There is something a million times simpler about an air cooled engine even with the advantages of the radiator.

[Jack Michaud]

I agree with Cliff, if you're lusting for a Ducati then forget the SV.

I've actually heard that if you're not afraid to work on your own engine, that air-cooled Ducatis are pleasantly easy to work on - including valve adjustments.

[astrokel]

They've made HUGE improvements over the years. With my 888 the "easier" method was to drop the engine, pop the heads off and work on the heads on a bench! And this was with the valve adjustment intervals being every 5000 miles!!! The right way to do it would be to have a machine shop available so you could machine the shims down to the correct thickness. I tried doing it the "hard" way by doing them on the engine still in the bike and worried every second about dropping one of them buggers (the shims) into the crankcase. I think if I had the urge I would'nt be so hesitant to work on the train because the access issues and availability of the shims are WAY better now than in the early 90's.

[Erik J]

Yet another perspective....Ever ride a Buell? V-twin, aircooled, gobs of tourque at avery rpm. It's not the fastest bike on the road but for me it is the most fun on two wheels that I've ever had. It's just plain fun and also one of (if not THE) best cornering (carving) bikes out there. Short 52" wheelbase lets you flip that thing around like a redheaded stepchild. There' also a beautiful new dual sport for '06 as well as upgrades to all models as far as transmission and belts. I read that Buell has one one of the lowest recall and "problem ratings" out right now. Blah, blah, blah, I want one.

So anyway - this is the bike that I lust after, similar to you lusting after the Duc. In my opinion there's no better reason to get any one type of bike than the feeling it gives you when you look at it, ride it, clean it, etc. Just throwing out my own bike lust for others to see. Ah, Buell :1luvu:

Also www.badweatherbiker.com (http://www.badweatherbiker.com/) rivals any site for passion and personality for one's sport.

[Jack Michaud]

The British magazine "Bike" recently named the Buell XB12R the best handling bike of all time. :eek:

http://www.sportrider.com/bikes/2005/2005-buell-xb12r-3.jpg

[Shred Gruumer]

That amazes me too Jack,, I rode the darn thing for a while they have a lot of those Buell test rides trying push them on ya..hehe.. Anyway for what they want for the them the finish is no where near a Duc.. at a stand still , if you think an duc vibrates..tant nothin like a buell! you can't even read the speedo it shakes so much.. and it not wieghted as good as a Monster.. for the money get an S2R or S4R.. hell the Multi strada . or the 990 Super Duke!

Just thought the vibration and the typical looking Harley engine was a bit much.. they should come up with a unique twin for that bike.. something more fitting.. at least they split the air cleaner in half!

My two euros

Right Said Shred

[astrokel]

KTM super Duke... super droooool :1luvu:

re: Buell...I was flabbergasted as well! Maybe all the oil leaking all over the place helps lube everything so all the stuff is really loose or sometin... :rolleyes:

[Gecko]

KTM super Duke... super droooool :1luvu:

re: Buell...I was flabbergasted as well! Maybe all the oil leaking all over the place helps lube everything so all the stuff is really loose or sometin... :rolleyes:


Another person falls victem to the sterotyping Buells :nono: :nono: :nono: personally for me when the time comes for a new bike it will be a very hard choice between a XB9S and a S2R

[astrokel]

Just kidding Gecko, just remember I'm the one riding a Guzzi :)

[Erik J]

Shred, the suspension is very touchy as far as getting dialed in. Once you have adjusted it correctly it rides like a dream. Those demo bikes get a good thrashing and are not set up for each individual rider. Unfortunately the Buells share space with Harley's at the dealer and finding a dealer that even knows they are in the showroom can be a challenge sometimes.
Anyway, like I said once the suspension is adjusted correctly to the specific person it's a dream - sounds a little like setting up intecs?

[sic t 2]

I was really hot on the Buell's, some years back, and jumped on a test ride of an S1 Lightning. Shook like a mother at idle but once it hit the business range it was remarkably smooth and strong. Pretty annoying bike to ride though: twitchy handling, engine too torquey, wheelie prone, extremely cramped. It reminded me of a large single cylinder enduro bike actually (nervous and wheelie city) more than a serious street bike. I'll bet the Buell works nicely in the 2006 Ulysses model configuration because that is what it really wants to be anyway.

I'm sure a lot has changed for the better with them, but one thing sure hasn't: Buell's depreciate like falling rocks. I would not go there unless you are really sure this is the bike you want to keep for a VERY LONG TIME.

sic

[Gecko]

I was really hot on the Buell's, some years back, and jumped on a test ride of an S1 Lightning. Shook like a mother at idle but once it hit the business range it was remarkably smooth and strong. Pretty annoying bike to ride though: twitchy handling, engine too torquey, wheelie prone, extremely cramped. It reminded me of a large single cylinder enduro bike actually (nervous and wheelie city) more than a serious street bike. I'll bet the Buell works nicely in the 2006 Ulysses model configuration because that is what it really wants to be anyway.

I'm sure a lot has changed for the better with them, but one thing sure hasn't: Buell's depreciate like falling rocks. I would not go there unless you are really sure this is the bike you want to keep for a VERY LONG TIME.

sic

You describe the S1's design elements like they are vices :eplus2: The S1Lightning was designed to be a torquy, nimble, holigan bike...and that is what it is. The M2 was the mellow Buell (if such a thing can be said).

that crashing value is reason to by one used

[astrokel]

Buy the bike, keep it for twenty years and then see what you think of it. I've had the V7Sport since 1987 and still love it. I bought the 888 in '93 and sold it in '99. The 888 was like an affair that was fun but got to be a PITA with all the maintenance issues but she sure was great to look at (and ride ;) )and I do miss it sometimes. The V7 was love at first sight and still is just perfect for me. How great a bike is in the long run is how it fits into your life style. It's all really personal like any relationship... Gee this is starting to sound like Aisling's thread... :)

[Tommy D]

It almost follows that as Alpine snowboarders, we are into a niche sport... Makes sense to me that many of us also admire/ride 'niche' motorcycles. The Buell is an excellent example. If Buell made a bike somewhere between the Blast and the Lightning, I'd take a look at it, too.

Also, as CARVERS, it makes sense for us to prefer sport/carving oriented bikes over cruisers. And I'll bet most of us look for the same characteristics in our automobiles, too.

Heh, I could go on all night about the similarities we all share across sports, but I'll leave you with this: As a general rule, many of us seem to be rather savvy and technically knowledgable about the sports we participate in. That's what makes this forum so great: We have a lot in common, and can bounce all kinds of ideas and questions of just about anything off each other!

Yeah, it's not a great epiphany, but it is late, and I'm tired. :sleep:

[Jon Dahl]

I've got an '03 SV1000s Suzuki and couldn't be happier. It's no Ducati, as far as tube frame, noisy clutch, and short maintainance intervals go, but it is a v-twin, it is fast, wheelie prone, a head turner, and rumbles nicely. Ducs are sexy and if it's your desire and you can afford it, go for it. Make sure you add up all the long term expenses first. I personally forgot all about tire prices, they do not give away 180/55zr17's! My emotional favorite is the RD400 2-stroke twin, only to be outdone by the Suzuki RG500 2-stroke V-4. The scream of a 2-stroke creates an emotional feeling in me that can't be duplicated. They are expensive to own, maintain, repair, at least at the level that I'd like! Nothing like hittin' the pipe at 6 grand and having the front end lift on a 2-stroke while the scream of the chambers fills your ears.

[Gecko]

It almost follows that as Alpine snowboarders, we are into a niche sport... Makes sense to me that many of us also admire/ride 'niche' motorcycles. The Buell is an excellent example. If Buell made a bike somewhere between the Blast and the Lightning, I'd take a look at it, too.

Also, as CARVERS, it makes sense for us to prefer sport/carving oriented bikes over cruisers. And I'll bet most of us look for the same characteristics in our automobiles, too.

Heh, I could go on all night about the similarities we all share across sports, but I'll leave you with this: As a general rule, many of us seem to be rather savvy and technically knowledgable about the sports we participate in. That's what makes this forum so great: We have a lot in common, and can bounce all kinds of ideas and questions of just about anything off each other!

Yeah, it's not a great epiphany, but it is late, and I'm tired. :sleep:

Buy a used Blast, drop the motor and ship to Aaron Wilson at Nallin Head Racing Service for a 44" kit, rearsets from Banke or Crossroads Performance, Telefix Profi clipon's, suspension upgrade from Works Performance and presto a backroad screamer (I have done all but the 44" kit...still working on the funds for a bigbore and headporting)

[Jack Michaud]

If Buell made a bike somewhere between the Blast and the Lightning, I'd take a look at it, too.

You know there's two sizes of Lightning, right? 900 and 1200cc. I've never ridden the 1200, but the 900 is very well mannered. And don't confuse the current Lightning with anything you've heard about the old X1, which I believe was also called Lightning. That thing was a POS. These new XB bikes are way more refined.

[Gecko]

just RAW though I was never a fan of the X1, the M2 and the S1 were better looking and behaving...not to say I don't like the XB's because I do I think they look and ride great. Used XB9's can be found very reasonably priced, the 1050 Big bore to the XB9 is easy enough that just about anyone can do it