GlennT said:
Here's the deal: I've ridden sports bikes for years, including track days. But I've always had Japanese bikes (NT650, ZX6R, RS125). I've talked myself out of a liter bike (I think) and thought I settled on a new Kawa 636.
But here's the big but... I've always admired Ducs from afar, I always thought I couldn't afford one. I haven't had a bike for a 3 years, been doing the new dad thing, but now the wife said "OK" and I plan to get one this summer. I'd like to use it as a daily driver, maybe 6000 miles a year. I'd also like something with 100+ponies (S4,748/49. 916/96). Is it time to grow up (I'm 41) and get a real moto? What to do?
Thanks
Glenn
As you can see, everyone has an opinion based on THEIR likes, interests, physical condition, age, fetishes, ego, etc. In the end, who knows what
turns us on or floats our boats.
You should recap in your mind what it is that you have admired about Ducs from afar, as you say. Did you like a certain sound? Styling? Color?
After taking stock of all that, then figure out what you will be doing on the bike. Commuting is one thing, but what kind of recreational riding will you be doing? Are you a speeder, changing lanes a lot? Do you want to go on long trips on the weekend? If so, where? Will there be twisties and/or mountain riding? How would you ride in those condition, fast, with a lean into the turns, or the speed limit while taking in the beauty?
Most important, consider your physical health, meaning what kind of shape you are in. This will determine what bike will make your rides fun and comfortable, rather than a pain.
I've got many good deals on bikes where the rider bought the bike simply looks, name, specs, or cachet. A few miles into it, they had to sell for one reason or another. Some bikes had low miles, but were months old because the seller was reluctant to sell, knowing they paid a lot for the bike. For example:
R1 - 1200 miles, 9 months old [timid rider, bike scared the hell out of him].
998 - 800 miles, 16 months old [had other bikes, mostly cruisers, was not a sportbike rider].
900 SS SP [could only afford 1 bike, had to sell so to get 999 with more HP so to keep up with other high horsepower sportbike friends on rides].
R6 - 300 miles [after buying, discovered his injured, and thus weak, left hand could not operate clutch without it hurting big time].
F4i - 1100 miles [newly married, wife said bike has to go, too dangerous].
All of the above illustrate riders who bought for one reason or another where the bike was not a good fit or circumstances changed.
So, think about it, do some research, and make an informed decision.
One tip I always throw out, look for a used bike with low miles. That way, if you decide the bike is not for you, you can sell it for little or no loss. Look on other threads where I discuss buying a used Ducati on eBay.
