Questions for long time Ducati owners???

[edwyun]

First, there will always be some "growing pains" on a new release bike. But, like you said, you expect that.

Second, the good news is that the 2V ducs like the HM are generally very reliable and robust, and cost a lot less to maintain that the 4V ducs. They are also fairly simple to work on.

Third, one thing I'd recommend is making sure you have access to a local ducati tech that rreally knows what they are doing. Sometimes problems can be caused or exacerbated due to inexperience. FWIW, my "local" ducati tech is 3.5 and 4.5 hours away (and that's passing several ducati dealerships/techs along the way). A competent tech will help a lot.

Fourth, buy whatever moves you.

ENJOY!

[baldheadeddork]

Originally Posted by Ducnewby

I know it is the newest, latest greatest. In the past, have there been problems with Ducati's new releases?
Thanks Ducnewby

Something to keep in mind. The HM is a new model, but almost everything except the bodywork is from the parts bin. The Dual Spark engine has proven to be a very reliable design, and the extra heat generated by the 100cc displacement bump shouldn't be a problem with an unfaired bike like the HM. All of the electronics are a proven design. With any fuel injected model you run a larger risk of an electronic failure, but the electrics on the DS engine is certainly no worse than any other EFI bike - and better than some that you might think would be better. (The Honda Interceptor comes to mind.)

How reliable are the air cooled Duc's? I would buy any of them as my primary source of transportation. Even ten years ago I wouldn't have said that, but Ducati has come a long, long way.