Another Newbie! - Ducati.ms

vtst4s · Mar 7th, 2006, 1:24 pm

Hi All,
Just another newbie here! I have owned JAP bikes my whole life. Everything from 250 GP bikes to the full liter rice rockets. I finally took the plunge and scored a 2004 ST4S abs last fall on ebay, only 600 miles on the bike when I got it and I paid just under 10G, so I think I did alright. In the few months I had to ride it before the snow came I put 2,500 miles on it and all I can say is WOW. This is one fun bike and so comfy compared to the latest/greatest rice rockets I'm used to. My one complaint about this bike, it refuses to go the speed limit!
I have been on most of the Ducati forums and I must say that this one seems to have the most info and the best bunch of members, so keep up the good work!
vtst4s

**st2lemans** · Mar 7th, 2006, 2:35 pm

Quote:

Originally Posted by vtst4s

I have owned JAP bikes my whole life

I think that you mean 'Jap', not JAP.

A friend of mine has a 1934 Brough Superior SS100 with a JAP motor. He rides it pretty regularly.

Tom

vtst4s · Mar 7th, 2006, 3:33 pm

Hey Tom,
Sorry about that! BTW...That is one sweeet ride!!! I'll bet that bike draws some attention huh?

stryder · Mar 7th, 2006, 7:24 pm

Actually, I think he means Japanese, not Jap. That BS SS100 is stunning. Bet it sounds awesome.

**st2lemans** · Mar 8th, 2006, 1:57 am

The engine is great, the handling OK, but the brakes are another matter. My friend says that most of the braking comes from engine-braking, so you really have to think ahead. The engine has 70 HP or so, and the bike weighs 400lbs, similar to an 800SS, but the brakes really suck. Headligh sucks too, I don't know how he can see at night (and he does sometimes ride it at night). He also has a certificate from Brough saying that it is certified to do 110MPH, not just 100. He's the top brit-bike restorer around here, makes his own parts, etc., and I've seen all kinds of stuff in his shop. I went on a ride with the local antique bike club last spring, which is when I took the pictures. I think that the oldest (and one of the nicest) along for the ride was a '24 Norton.

Tom

mcd · Mar 8th, 2006, 5:50 am

Man... the older bikes have so much character. Bet you're friend has quite a stable and passion for motorcyling history. Thanks for the look-see, Tom.