Ducati supersport

Was looking at possibly swoping the vfr for the new Ducati this year.

However looking at recent reviews from Spain not quite sure on the looks. 

Bit of an ugly duckling compared to the vfr. 

That screen looks at bit of an after thought 😳

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The Ducati apparently has an adjustable screen.

Couple of commercials to compare and contrast.  I prefer the styling and sound of the VFR.  The red wheels on the Ducati look clownlike while the bronze wheels of the VFR look gorgeous.  The dash of the VFR is also far superior IMO - I love me a real tach!   The Ducati's dash looks like a cheap screen from an old Nintendo GameBoy - no thanks.

And no option for hard bags? A real sport-tourer needs hard bags.

14 minutes ago, Rambler358

And no option for hard bags? A real sport-tourer needs hard bags.

They do come with the Touring Package along with heated grips and taller windscreen.  You can see them at the 12:00 mark of this vid below.  The Ducati only has a 4.2 gallon tank so it won't have anywhere near the range of the Interceptor.

GatorGreg  

They do come with the Touring Package along with heated grips and taller windscreen.  You can see them at the 12:00 mark of this vid below.  The Ducati only has a 4.2 gallon tank so it won't have anywhere near the range of the Interceptor.

Bags are nice, and I do love the sound of that Ducati. Also better electronics than the VFR, and a up/down quick-shifter as well. Ergonomics seem to be about the same, but has options for different seats, and a taller adjustable windscreen. A bit more power doesn't hurt either, but I assume all this is definitely going to bring the price well above the VFR.

5 hours ago, Rambler358

Bags are nice, and I do love the sound of that Ducati. Also better electronics than the VFR, and a up/down quick-shifter as well. Ergonomics seem to be about the same, but has options for different seats, and a taller adjustable windscreen. A bit more power doesn't hurt either, but I assume all this is definitely going to bring the price well above the VFR.

The end of this vid has the pricing in British pounds, not sure what it is in US dollars.

Supersport 11,495 British pounds

Supersport S (red) 12,795

Supersport S (white) 12,995

(Edit:  According to Sportrider, "MSRP for the base SuperSport is $12,995, while the SuperSport S retails for $14,795."

http://www.sportrider.com/2017-ducati-supersport-first-look

IIRC, MSRP for 8th gen VFR was originally $12,499 for base and $13,499 for the deluxe, but Honda has since cut the MSRP at least in the USA for the leftover '14 and '15s.)

According to the vid the bike redlines at only 10K rpm, which I suppose is okay for a large twin.   What's the deal with the funky LED position/marker lights?  Can they not be turned off?  It looks like the actual headlights are plain bulbs but they don't seem to come on automatically like every other motorcycle - I don't think I've ever seen a pic/vid with the actual headlights on unless I'm missing something.  I'd rather have the actual headlights be LED like on the Interceptor.

There's not much about this Ducati that makes me want to run out and trade in my VFR for one.  In fact, I suspect there might have been an 8th gen Interceptor in Bologna when this Ducati Supersport was being created.

I'm digging the Ducati. The exhaust, red frame but not red wheels. There some nit-pick things that I don't like about it like the rear non integrated blinkers and no hard luggage option, but so does VFR has its own cons. 

15K for Ducati IMO is priced well. You get power less weight, better suspension, and electronics than VFR.

I'd love to have the Duc.  Not enough to run out and buy one since I have a VFR.  I also don't look at these bikes as "either, or".  They both have huge pluses and minor minuses.  Just get both of them if one is passionate enough about both of them.  I've had MBS and got over it.    

10 hours ago, GatorGreg

Couple of commercials to compare and contrast.  I prefer the styling and sound of the VFR.  The red wheels on the Ducati look clownlike while the bronze wheels of the VFR look gorgeous.  The dash of the VFR is also far superior IMO - I love me a real tach!   The Ducati's dash looks like a cheap screen from an old Nintendo GameBoy - no thanks.

Disagree with you on the red wheels...me likey!  Agree with you on the VFR dash.  Thanks for posting the videos sir.

Is Ducati touting it as a "Sport-Tourer" or is this what VFR and magazine people are labeling it? I'm more inclined to think that it is a sport bike first and yet, with ergos that allow for more than just quick jaunts around the track and canyons.

Personally I do not think this is a Ducati "VFR" or a replacement for the VFR in my stable, in fact I have a Super Sport, albeit a 21 year old, and 2 VFRs in my stable and although my SS is no where near being a touring bike, the ergos are not bad for a SS but given the option, I'd take either VFR if I'm going anywhere long distance. In all honesty, I would love to have this SS but I would need to replace my current one due to limited space in my garage but I can't seem to want to part with my ole '95 SS!

It seems that it's the VFR crowd that has the biggest aversion to this SS, somehow thinking Ducati is trying to knock their bike off the top step but in reality, this is just another bike that can do more than just one thing. Maybe it's partly due to Honda not really touting the VFR or giving more attention to it, who knows maybe this SS will give Honda the push it needs to get the VFR back to its roots as one of the best "do it all" motorcycles and winning all those magazine awards and accolades it use to garner.

Is there anyone who thinks VFR is on top of any step or sport touring category? The only thing VFR has over competitors is proven reliability, great gas mileage (87 octane) and good range. This Duc, if ergos are the same, this is exactly what most of us want (not necessarily need) in a V4 configuration, and the option for hard bags. 

On paper, this looks like a great bike. Out of my price range but good job to Ducati. Their bike line-up has some great options.

I sat on the SS last month at our motorcycle show and found the ergonomics much more relaxed / comfortable (I am 5'-9") than the stock VFR.

The handlebars on the SS are back a bit and you sit more upright…was quite surprised to find a comfortable Ducati sport bike.

If developed a bit further as a sport tourer (e.g. handbags, better range, etc.) the SS would be a strong competitor against the VFR - especially as the price is similar to the full price of the Honda.

If I didn't already have my '15 Interceptor, I think this Ducati S model with the Touring package would be my first pick between it and the VFR. Would I trade in my VFR for this new SuperSport? No. But if I didn't already have the VFR, I doubt that I'd get it now that this new Ducati is almost out.

Prefer the vfr.   The led of the Ducati reminds me of eyebrows. 

I am definately going to have a test ride when they become available, however sitting on one at a bike show, two things concern me, you seem 'trapped' into the seat and the view of the cockpit area looks cheap compared with the VFR.  the answer will be in the riding, having had Ducati's before; make sure you do ride before buying, they can be 'lumpy' at lower revs.

3 hours ago, fink

Prefer the vfr.   The led of the Ducati reminds me of eyebrows. 

LOL

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I sat on one at the Chicago bike show.  Looks like a good option in this category.  Nice to see that Ducati has some hard bags- I hadn't seen those before the video posted above only the semi rigid bags.   I am interested in taking the local Ducati dealer's demo for a spin at some point.

Here is a great link to the Motorcycle.com "7 things you didn't know about the new Ducati Supersport".  Seems that in the comments section many are saying that this is the VFR that the 8th gen should have been.

http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/ducati/2017-ducati-supersport-7-things-you-didnt-know.html

EDIT- GOOD ONE DUCATI- THOSE AREN'T HARD BAGS- THEY LOOK LIKE HARD BAGS BUT ARE SEMI RIGID.  THANKS TO ZACK AT MOTORCYCLIST FOR POINTING THAT OUT!

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To my eyes it looks virtually indistinguishable from the 8th Gen VFR.

Carlosfandango, ‎19‎/‎02‎/‎2017 at 0:49 PM

I am definately going to have a test ride when they become available, however sitting on one at a bike show, two things concern me, you seem 'trapped' into the seat and the view of the cockpit area looks cheap compared with the VFR.  the answer will be in the riding, having had Ducati's before; make sure you do ride before buying, they can be 'lumpy' at lower revs.

Agree that when I sat one at our bike show the plastics around the cockpit area looked made to a price. Will still test one though along with the new triumph triple and Z100sx, decisions, decisions.

I think Ducati hit the mark with this. I dare say its like the more attractive cousin to the 8th gen Interceptor.

lazyeye I think Ducati hit the mark with this. I dare say its like the more attractive cousin to the 8th gen Interceptor.

Alaskan, 2/19/2017 at 0:05 PM

To my eyes it looks virtually indistinguishable from the 8th Gen VFR.

Troublemaker!  ;-)

Well yeah, it does have two wheels.  And a single-sided swingarm.

The Duc's bodywork seems to have more styling touches.

And for those who care, in addition to the DRL eyebrows that are so much "the thing" on contemporary automobiles, the Duc has USD forks!  Think of the bench races you could win, hands-down!!!

With almost a gallon and a half less fuel capacity and what I predict to be a greater thirst for fuel, range will definitely be a compromise.

And notice how they never show you what the road version looks like with the bag hardware in place, sans bags.  Hmmm...

17 minutes ago, Quibble

8th gen looks better.

In your opinion anyway.

I tell you what looks way better to me...

$8k- $8500 out the door for a 2014 Interceptor DLX

vs.

$13k-$15k out the door on the Ducati!

:goofy:

2 hours ago, deltaboxii

I tell you what looks way better to me...

$8k- $8500 out the door for a 2014 Interceptor DLX

vs.

$13k-$15k out the door on the Ducati!

:goofy:

Well...  there's the possibility that you could snag one of those Ducs for $8k OTD in 2019!  :wink:

2 hours ago, Rectaltronics

Well...  there's the possibility that you could snag one of those Ducs...

I have seen this shorthand (Ducs) for decades, but because I only ever read it and never hear it, I don't know how it is pronounced. So: "dukes" or "ducks"?

3 minutes ago, RobF

I have seen this shorthand (Ducs) for decades, but because I only ever read it and never hear it, I don't know how it is pronounced. So: "dukes" or "ducks".

Most of us who own and ride Ducatis do not like the shorthand "Duc" moniker.

It is "Ducati".

YMMV

2 minutes ago, Alaskan

Most of us who own and ride Ducatis do not like the shorthand "Duc" moniker.

It is "Ducati".

I guess I'm an exception. I refer to mine as "The Duc" (Duck) all the time, heck my moniker here even has it spelled that way. I'm no snob about my bikes that's for sure and whether it pisses off the "Ducatisti", who knows, personally I don't care. I've had mine for over 21 years so I feel somewhat entitled to use whatever moniker I want. Now if a stranger ask what kind of bike, in case they can't read the name all over the body work, I call it a Ducati 900Super Sport.

Duc2V4 takes me to the woodshed! It hurt him more than it hurt me, though. LOL.

My bias was showing and you corrected me. Thanks.

5 hours ago, Rectaltronics

Well...  there's the possibility that you could snag one of those Ducs for $8k OTD in 2019!  :wink:

I'll take one at that price, can I make a deposit now to reserve one?

I noticed that the full motorcycle.com review by Troy Siahaan which popped up on their site yesterday says "Perhaps its nearest Japanese analog is the VFR800 Interceptor, which was dropped from American Honda’s lineup in 2015."

Link:  http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/ducati/2017-ducati-supersport-review.html

I also thought it was ironic that the same publication (in a review by Evans Brasfield) gave the EXACT SAME SCORE of 86.5% when they reviewed the 8th gen 3 years ago!  Link:  http://www.motorcycle.com/manufacturer/honda/2014-honda-interceptor-review-first-ride.html

Mr.  Brasfield noted in his later long term review that : "In the 1,100 miles I’ve logged on the Interceptor, I’ve become even more fond of it than I was at the introduction. "

Link:  http://www.motorcycle.com/features/living-interceptor.html

It will be interesting to see if they feel the same way about the new Ducati after a long term test.

For those who believe the 2014s are a fantastic deal, yes I agree, but only if you plan to keep long term. You are buying a 3 year old bike no matter it's off the showroom floor.

Interesting bike.

What would be the maintenance costs on it?  Much more than on the VFR?

34 minutes ago, Rice

Interesting bike.

What would be the maintenance costs on it?  Much more than on the VFR?

My understanding and experience with the older Ducatis, their maintenance schedules were really short (3000 - 7500 miles i.e. Belt changes, valve inspection, etc.), the newer models are more in line with the Japanese makes (10,000 - 15,000 i.e. Belt changes, valve inspection, etc.). As far as cost per hour, just like with any make/model, rates will vary from shop to shop.

Specs and looks aside, the key question for me is: Which bike am I willing to depend on when going on a long tour? VFR: Yes, Ducati: No.  Having owned a RC36 and a Duc 750 Supersport in my early days, I am certainly biased by having ridden the best Honda can do and ... hm, let's say: Not quite the best of Italian engineering. Things might have changed in the reliability department at Ducati recently, but they still have to earn my trust after a torn timing belt...

I do not want to take this thought too far, but: A certain level of Diva behaviour migh be acceptable for weekend supersports bike, but not for a bike you spend your riding holidays on.

My 2c, of course.

Nelix, 2/21/2017 at 3:05 PM

For those who believe the 2014s are a fantastic deal, yes I agree, but only if you plan to keep long term. You are buying a 3 year old bike no matter it's off the showroom floor.

The 8th gens only came out mid-year, so not 3 years old quite yet.

I have a bottle of 30 year old Ballantine's here that is about 30 years old.

It's still 30 year old scotch, not sixty.

Your mileage may vary.

How many of us here bought a VFR thinking "I'll only keep this for a year or two"?

V powerrrr

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The closest competitor to the Ducati Supersport is the Suzuki GSX-S1000F.  VFR800 is clearly a step down in power, weight, and cost.

Suzuki stats:  459 lb, $11k, 135 hp, 75 lb-torque.

Ducati stats:  462 lb, $13k-15k, 113 hp, about 75 lb-torque.

They look similar.  Suzuki is definitely better value.  Ducati looks better.  

I hope a motorcycle magazine does a comparison between the Suzuki and Ducati.

The Ducati is a V-twin (did I mention I love V-twins almost as much as I love V-Fours?). Might be an interesting comparo.

5 hours ago, Quibble

The closest competitor to the Ducati Supersport is the Suzuki GSX-S1000F.  VFR800 is clearly a step down in power, weight, and cost.

I think 8th gens are the closest competitor (leftover 8th gens in the case of USA/Canada, but maybe Honda will release the tweaked '17 version in N. America now that the new SuperSport is bringing new attention to this market segment).  The Motorcycle.com review (see link in my earlier post above) stated the VFR800 Interceptor was the new SuperSport's "nearest Japanese analog" and gave both bikes the exact same review score of 86.5%, so apparently Motorcycle.com doesn't view the VFR as "clearly a step down" from the new SuperSport.

I would argue the Ducati is actually a step down from the VFR in terms of style (clown-like red wheels and weird LED eyebrows v. tasteful bronze wheels/engine accents and real LED headlights), dash (GameBoy screen v. beautiful analogue tach with white on black LCD), range (4.2 gallon v. 5.6 gallon), reliability (Ducati nearly 3x worse than Honda per Consumer Reports), dealer network (sketchy v. everywhere), and engine note (twins just don't sound nearly as good as a four IMO).  Personally, I would never seriously consider getting a Ducati as there's only 1 dealer in Orlando and it's on the other side of town from me about an hour away and has awful reviews.  Next closest Ducati dealers are all the way in Tampa and Daytona.  The Ducati may have an extra 9 hp (113 v. 104) but I'm willing to give up a little power in exchange for having a V4 and the sweet engine sounds that come with it.  Plus the 8th gen, being tuned for low to mid range power, does 0-60 in 3.0 seconds (zeroto60times.com) which is extremely quick - only a few tenths behind the Panigale - so it may actually be quicker than this new SuperSport from 0-60.

To follow up on my last post, I predict this new Ducati SuperSport will be SLOWER from 0-60 and the SAME or SLOWER in the quartermile than the 8th gen VFR800 Interceptor.  This despite the Ducati having more displacement, more hp, more torque, and less weight than the Interceptor.  I haven't seen any test times for the new Ducati - apparently the recent press launch in Spain was on a wet road and track and nobody has reported any times to my knowledge.

I base my prediction on the following prior tests and stats:

2014 Honda VFR800 Interceptor (529 pounds wet per Honda):   0-60 in 3.0 sec and 1/4 mile in 11.4 sec per zeroto60times.com

2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 (450 pounds wet per Ducati):  0-60 in 3.2 sec and 1/4 mile in 11.4 sec per zeroto60times.com

2017 Ducati Supersport (same engine as Hypermotard 939 and 463 pounds wet per Ducati):  0-60 in TBD, 1/4 mile in TBD

If the SuperSport had the same luggage capacity as Honda's OEM panniers and top-box I'd consider it. But IMHO it's not a sport-tourer with semi-rigid panniers and no top-box option.

20 hours ago, GatorGreg

To follow up on my last post, I predict this new Ducati SuperSport will be SLOWER from 0-60 and the SAME or SLOWER in the quartermile than the 8th gen VFR800 Interceptor.  This despite the Ducati having more displacement, more hp, more torque, and less weight than the Interceptor.  I haven't seen any test times for the new Ducati - apparently the recent press launch in Spain was on a wet road and track and nobody has reported any times to my knowledge.

I base my prediction on the following prior tests and stats:

2014 Honda VFR800 Interceptor (529 pounds wet per Honda):   0-60 in 3.0 sec and 1/4 mile in 11.4 sec per zeroto60times.com

2016 Ducati Hypermotard 939 (450 pounds wet per Ducati):  0-60 in 3.2 sec and 1/4 mile in 11.4 sec per zeroto60times.com

2017 Ducati Supersport (same engine as Hypermotard 939 and 463 pounds wet per Ducati):  0-60 in TBD, 1/4 mile in TBD

But it does have USD forks! 

:laughing6-hehe:

15 hours ago, Rectaltronics

But it does have USD forks! 

:laughing6-hehe:

LOL - yes it does - here's an interview with the first person to take delivery of the new SuperSport:

The Duc seems to be missing a couple of things:

Cylinders!

The VFR is much better looking.

MaxSwell The VFR is much better looking.

I think the Ducati looks great. I also think the VFR looks great. Does that make me a traitor? Ha ha.

And then the R1200RS is a force that both must contend with. The R1200RS looks like a Transformer compared to these bikes (acquired taste - or not), but it's a helluva motorcycle. Different strokes. And I own a R1200RS and a VFR and a Ducati, so I claim privilege . . .

There's a YouTube of the SS.  Watch it and you may decide you don't want one at all.  That was my conclusion.  

Bent There's a YouTube of the SS.  Watch it and you may decide you don't want one at all.  That was my conclusion.

15 hours ago, Rambler358

There's many videos of the SS on YouTube, which one are you referring to?

It's the one that was on my TV.....

Look around like I did and you'll learn even more.  I honestly didn't take down the URL from a TV.  

I wouldn't call the VFR the its closest competitor. No hard luggage options, comparatively short range (16L vs 22L), no center stand, and limited pillion accommodation. I'd say the Suzuki GSXS1000F would be as mentioned by Quibble.  

Rambler358, 3/11/2017 at 4:41 PM

There's many videos of the SS on YouTube, which one are you referring to?

He was probably referring to any of the videos with audio - because the Ducati twin sounds like a tractor compared to the VFR - LOL

Yes, but a finely tuned one. :)

And it is beautiful. But I'd miss the revving big time. Not for me. I am biased.

3 hours ago, GatorGreg

He was probably referring to any of the videos with audio - because the Ducati twin sounds like a tractor compared to the VFR - LOL

A matter of opinion.  I loved the way my air cooled S2R1000 sounded at full tilt.  Now BMW parallel twins, that sounds like a tractor.

5 hours ago, MaxSwell

Yes, but a finely tuned one. :)

And it is beautiful. But I'd miss the revving big time. Not for me. I am biased.

Alright, to be fair and balanced I'll grant you that Ducati makes the best sounding twins - but that's like being a gold medalist at the Special Olympics or the NIT champion - LOL.  I agree with you on the revving - since it redlines at under 10,000 rpm you won't get the fun of watching the tach needle sweep past 10,000.  Oh wait, this thing doesn't even have a tach needle - it just has an LCD screen and not even a color TFT one at that - no thanks!

It never ceases to amaze me how much value people put on sound alone.  The best sound, to me, is no sound.  

Bent, 3/17/2017 at 8:12 AM

It never ceases to amaze me how much value people put on sound alone.  The best sound, to me, is no sound.  

Sounds like a wise take, from one who is old enough to know better.

In spite of wearing great ear plugs, my hearing continues to degenerate. The GDCs can't help. But I can't help my self there.

But now I do appreciate what being able to hear adds to life and having little hearing left suks. 

Y'all have been warned.

Not to drift completely off-topic but the truth is, even with a full-face lid, wind noise probably does more damage to motorcycle riders than engine and/or exhaust noise.  Although riding behind guys who think they're too "cool" for mufflers certainly doesn't help.

PS, and now a word from the I Never Would Have Imagined The Day Department:

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nascar/2017/03/06/nascar-may-make-cars-quieter/98812206/

MaxSwell, 3/19/2017 at 0:09 PM

Sounds like a wise take, from one who is old enough to know better.

In spite of wearing great ear plugs, my hearing continues to degenerate. The GDCs can't help. But I can't help my self there.

But now I do appreciate what being able to hear adds to life and having little hearing left suks. 

Y'all have been warned.

And that's why I NEVER have ridden without ear plugs.  I am old enough to know better....; )   I hear ya MaxSwell.

WHAT?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

For anyone interested, there's a pamphlet in the downloads section on NIHL (Noise Induced Hearing Loss). Pretty good info on the subject.

To put the subject back on topic, I'm waiting to hear from the Ducati dealer once they get their SS allotment in. I really want to test ride one, like to see what a 22 year span (My 1995 900SS vs. 2017) feels like. Probably won't buy one but always good to ride different bikes from time to time.

Link to download:

Alaskan, 2/19/2017 at 11:05 AM

To my eyes it looks virtually indistinguishable from the 8th Gen VFR.

I'm with Alaskan on this one - The Ducati styling looks like they used the 8th gen VFR as a template. Both very good looking bikes. The silhouette, integrated mirrors and turn signals, tank shape, windscreen, x shaped headlight styling. Very close visually from the pictures/video I've seen of the Ducati.

I took one out today. I was with a mate who took a Multistrada as well

I'll copy my thoughts from another site 

It was fab HOWEVER the V-twin thing I don't get, lumpy as feck low down just like the V-strom. Sounds good, lots of popping on the overrun though not as deep and throaty as the VFR with the Remus. Not much in it power wise (113bhp for the Duc vs 104) but that power on the Duc is there from the off wheras the VFR is sedateish until you hit that VTEC. I thought I got the VTEC to kick in on the Duc but it was actually cutting out at the redline (NEVER BUY AN EX_DEMO BIKE) The more I rode it the more fun it was though Stuart(bless him) kept wandering off and getting lost so I had a great time trying to find him. Eventually I tracked him down at a charity shop in Waddington where we had a brew and swapped bikes. Unfortunately the Multi demo was gubbed, GOK what was wrong but no throttle response and wouldn't rev over 6k. Absolutely knacked but the handling was very good when it was moving so I see why John C Brown is so bloody hard to catch . I'd also say the Supersports handling was superb, on rails etc but then I wonder if some new tyres on the VFR might help even things up a tad

Scores on the doors
Sexiness Duc 10 VFR 8
Speediness Duc 10 VFR 8
Soundtrack Duc 8 VFR 10
Tank range (Yawn) Duc 150 VFR 200
Comfort (wrists/bum/legroom) Duc 9 VFR 7 
Handling Duc 10 VFR 7
Price Duc howfeckingmuch?? VFR I suppose I'm paying for Honda quality

Stuart dropped me at lunchtime as he had to go and pick his dentures up so I had a run with his mate Dave through Bowland (chasing him on his Monster 1200R) which made me think again that the VFR is a fine bike

3 modes on a 115bhp - why bother? I wacked it in sport and left it at that
Quickshifter /downshifter autoblipper? Not on the roads, pointless. \\\\\\\\\might be OK on a track but I found it awkward and jerky and defaulted to using the clutch.  wish they'd left off the Quickshiter gubbins and put the Ohlins on the standard bike

Oh, and te display is dull dull dull

Would I buy one? In a heartbeat but it is not that much a better bike over the VFR. You only live once though. Better start the plan of nagging. I've got her captive on a plane for 8hrs next week.....

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Thanks for the ride report. 

It's definitely a looker IMO and I love the V2 soundtrack. Also not nearly as much of a torture rack as a Pani, I suppose. 

Range and luggage not really worthy of a sports tourer it seems. 

Oh well, can't afford it anyway.  :unsure:

it's an older gentlemans sports bike IMHO

Carlosfandango, 2/19/2017 at 4:49 AM

the answer will be in the riding, having had Ducati's before; make sure you do ride before buying, they can be 'lumpy' at lower revs.

That's one of the things I like about my 1st gen Tuono. The power delivery is definitely lumpy at lower RPMs.

Nice tasty lumps of torque with a thunderous aural finish. :beer:

And that V-Twin sound is great, not to mention the torque. 

Well I got a call from the Ducati dealer (Newport Ducati) and I have a test ride scheduled for Saturday April 15!

^ would like to see a full write up on this ;)

Duc2V4 Well I got a call from the Ducati dealer (Newport Ducati) and I have a test ride scheduled for Saturday April 15!

Duc2V4, 07/04/2017 at 4:00 AM

Well I got a call from the Ducati dealer (Newport Ducati) and I have a test ride scheduled for Saturday April 15!

V2s lumpy low down? They all do that Sir

Well I almost pulled the trigger. Negotiated an acceptable part-ex with the dealer, got a humph of approval from my wife, rang the insurance........

Nope not on our database yet

tried some comparison sites, not on there either

tried Ducati insurance .... not on their database!

rang the dealer, they have their own insurers and finally got a price

wait for it...... (47yrs old , 10yrs + NCB, crrent price for the VFR is £250 with business use as well)
...

....... £1031 without business which means I can't ride it to work on sunny days

for now my Ducati dreams are on hold

(I can get a Multistrada 1200 insured for 300!)

Nice pics and review vtwindr.  Sucks about the insurance - although I can't say I blame the insurance companies for wanting to charge a crap load of money to insure a bike named "Supersport" LOL

Duc2vr, looking forward to seeing your review as well.

26 minutes ago, GatorGreg

Nice pics and review vtwindr.  Sucks about the insurance - although I can't say I blame the insurance companies for wanting to charge a crap load of money to insure a bike named "Supersport" LOL

Back in '84 when the Yamaha RZ-350s hit the streets in the 'States, my insurance company didn't know what it was.

20s, unmarried, and I think I was paying $180/year for comprehensive.

'Cause it was under 350cc.  LOL

1 hour ago, GatorGreg

Nice pics and review vtwindr.  Sucks about the insurance - although I can't say I blame the insurance companies for wanting to charge a crap load of money to insure a bike named "Supersport" LOL

Duc2vr, looking forward to seeing your review as well.

well I'm having back surgery end of April so will be off the bike for a while. Hopefully when it's been out for a couple of months and people with less sense and more money have taken the insurance hit and hopefully not binned them then the insurance companies will get a grip and make a more realistic quote. Honestly there's very little in it between the SS and the VFR other than the SS takes off a bit earlier

8 hours ago, vtwindr

wait for it...... (47yrs old , 10yrs + NCB, crrent price for the VFR is £250 with business use as well)

...

....... £1031 without business which means I can't ride it to work on sunny days

So waitaminnit... is that £250 mean business and pleasure?

But £1031 for pleasure only?

5 minutes ago, Rectaltronics

So waitaminnit... is that £250 mean business and pleasure?

But £1031 for pleasure only?

I wish
nah the VFR is 250

The Supersport is 1031
I use the bike for work sometimes and visit patients houses on it which means I need extra insurance in case I have an accident whilst on work related  trips. Another way for insurers to screw us over

Oh OK.

We here tend to get higher rates if we say we're using the bike to commute, but that's mostly due to the legitimate extra likelihood of traffic incidents.

3 minutes ago, Rectaltronics

Oh OK.

We here tend to get higher rates if we say we're using the bike to commute, but that's mostly due to the legitimate extra likelihood of traffic incidents.

yep, we get that as well
it goes 

Pleasure
Commute
Business
but even though my business use is essentially commuting within the workday that doesn't count. It's not like I'm delivering pizza on it

13 hours ago, vtwindr

....... £1031 without business which means I can't ride it to work on sunny days

OMFG ! Surely they have the SS confused with a Pani.  :blink:

So I was able to take a ride on the new SS yesterday. Although it wasn't a long or twisty ride, it was enough for me to get a decent feel for the bike. I'm not really going to compare it to the VFR other than it did feel like a bike one could ride all day without feeling tortured and it did feel rather lite and nimble. I really wish I could have taken it on a more appropriate test ride, i.e. Twisty roads and some length but alas not the case.

One thing I will say, at low RPMs it did seem to make the bike feel like it was about to stall. However, once the RPMs hit 3.5-4k, the motor really kicked in and it felt more worthy. To add though, the electronics were set to "sport mode" so not sure if that was a big contributor or not but the salesman I spoke with was an older model SS owner like myself and admitted that the low end of this bike was lacking in comparison, so I'm thinking it's more the motor than the electronics setting. Probably should have played around with the settings. That being said, it will rev past 9k RPM, versus my era SS.

There were a couple of things I like about the bike, one the lite feel and ease of taking a turn, particularly at slower speeds. Something I have a hard time with on my 95 SS. There's the saying. ?What a difference a year makes"...well this would be 22 years if compared to mine but ultimately that's where I'm coming from. When on the gas it did feel like a really strong motor with a decent amount of torque but with the stock exhaust, it really didn't quite have the "feeling" of being so. Maybe I'm spoiled with my Duc and VFRs having a bit more "growl" but ultimately I wasn't sold on the bike. Maybe it's sentimental but I honestly prefer my old SS over the new one. Although it's ultimately more refined and has a lot more advancements over my 95, there was just something missing for me. The dash, even though it has more to it, I kind like the old school dual dial tachometer & speedometer of ole versus the all in one LCD dash panel. I had no issues reading it in bright daylight BTW.

Would I get one? Maybe, if I didn't have already have mine and was looking for an alternative to an inline 4 and/or wanted something a little different than a repli-racer or if I just wanted to dip my toe into the Ducati pool, this might be a good entry level Ducati sport bike. Ultimately, I won't be trading in my current SS for one nor give up either of my VFRs for one but I'm glad I rode it so now I wouldn't question it years down the road..."Why didn't I just test ride one?"

Glad you scratched that itch. Wondering the 2 other duc's I've tested also were hesitant at low rpm if a proper flash or PCV might be a nessisary add on for current ducs. Can't see myself on one anytime soon got to give it a test as she is a great looking bike, 

Bent, 2/18/2017 at 7:04 AM

I've had MBS and got over it.    

OK, so how does that work?  :unsure:

I will admit to feeling a disturbance in the force. Three bikes and 2 cars here, and they ALL need something.

Maybe this is how it starts. The things you own end up owning you.

Did you feel an urge to sell all that you had and give it to the poor?

Wait, that's not right. :goofy:

Sell 3 bikes and get 1 new one? :beer:

VFR4Lee, 4/18/2017 at 8:16 PM

OK, so how does that work?  :unsure:

I will admit to feeling a disturbance in the force. Three bikes and 2 cars here, and they ALL need something.

Maybe this is how it starts. The things you own end up owning you.

Did you feel an urge to sell all that you had and give it to the poor?

Wait, that's not right. :goofy:

Sell 3 bikes and get 1 new one? :beer:

After having Multiple Bike Syndrome, I did that once and had to have another bike.  So, that didn't work.  Got an 8th gen. which was a good decision.  Multiple cars is different than multiple bikes.   

Multiple cars is different than multiple bikes.   

Wife must have her car, that's for sure. But, guess who gets to take care of it beyond washing? :wink:

She washes her car?

man you found yourself a keeper 

Well I am one of those who likes it - enough that I bought one😁.Bought a Supersport S in white and putting the akro system on it. I will be running it in at the Spring Ride aka TMAC in May. Bought it as a more comfortable sports bike than the Aprilia.

If you want brutal power get a litre cheater but they get a little hard on ya. We shall see but I liked my test ride enough to buy one.

[image: IMG_0490.thumb.PNG.99793981f149a3a558c8d38fa5e29dad.PNG]

£1800 to make your bike look like a wheel barrow 

To each their own. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I remember when I got my 6th gen to replace a 3rd gen and people said it looked like an alien or buggy. Still didnt stop people from buying it. Live and let live

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:beer:

I freaking LOVE that style exhaust. Even better with the shorter cans and no backet on the 1299 Superleggera.


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£29:00 includes p+p

Just a bit of friendly fire

But I already hsve a wheelbarrow  😂

Here is an interesting way to compare the VFR to Supersport. Spend the same bucks on each.

Price's would vary country to country, but here in Australia, for the price they want for the basic Super Sport, I can buy a VFR and;

- Akrapovic slip on.

- Quick shifter.

- Lithium ion battery.

- OEM panniers, bags, locks etc.

- OEM 45 litre top box, carrier, plate, lock etc.

- Hugger, radiator guard, tank pad, levers, bar ends & handle bar spacers.

I could then take off the centre stand and the first time I pull into the petrol station when the fuel light comes on, only put 12.5l instead of 18l of fuel.

That would give the VFR an extra 3kw, no weight gain, over 100 litres hard lockable luggage, a comfier riding position and some bling/protection all for the price of the SS ready to ride out the dealer yard stock as a rock.

Track fun? Well the VFR still won't equal the SS on paper, but without the luggage the extra 3kw and -12kg approx will help narrow the gap.

And if you compare the VFR DLX to the SS erm, S, then you'd have to get into some gold plating or something to get the VFR up to that price, or pay the insurance for the next 5 years.

Or maybe buy the VFR stock and with the change, buy a second hand fireblade thou for the track. Again, prices will vary between countries, but here in Aus, I can buy a 2008-2011 CBR1000RR for the price difference between the VFR (only DLX here) and the Super Sport S ride away.

Edit.

Actually, for the price of the Super sport, I can buy the Kawasaki ZX-14. Yeah, it's heavier than the VFR or SS. But put helibars/luggage on them and they make a decent sports tourer and good luck trying to keep up with one on the road or track.

Nothing I can say except i want it therefore I got it. 

But for the sake of saying I could just say keep my current VFR which has all you describe and more , race my HRC built track bike and tear ass in the mountains on the Aprilia RSV4. 

Just cause it doesn't make $ sense doesn't mean we don'

2 minutes ago, grond1234

Nothing I can say except i want it therefore I got it. 

But for the sake of saying I could just say keep my current VFR which has all you describe and more , race my HRC built track bike and tear ass in the mountains on the Aprilia RSV4. 

Just cause it doesn't make $ sense doesn't mean we don'

Finally, someone that is a man of action.  Wanting one and getting one is a good enough reason.  We don't have to "justify" anything.  

Correct, VFR4Lee.  Women just have power.  No getting around that.   :wink:

That should be their new tag line. Honda VFR: because it's cheap.


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So which is the better bike? Honda VFR or Ducati Super sport?

The Honda is cheaper, reliable, better pillion seat, dash, less vibration, includes a centre stand, bigger fuel tank, bigger panniers, two top box options and has adjustable riders seat height & handle bars.

The Ducati has more power.

..and the winner is, The Ducati! Yay!!!! Whoohoo! :cheerleader:

Who care's if it will shake your teeth out, break down, can't carry anything larger than a tooth brush, has a 200km range and has a dash you can't read or make heads or tails off.

...It has more powa! Power always wins!

Silly people who thought the VFR had a hope in hell against the Ducati Super sports!

Ok, got that off my chest.

Because we all buy motorcycles solely to replace our Corollas.


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I have a Corolla?

Oh wait, what's that out the back patio under a tarpaulin...It's a 2010 Corolla. Gee, forgot that was there! :pinocchio:

VFR Panniers & top box is for carrying clothing, helmets, camping gear, books, lap top and other assorted personal effects.

Ducati luggage is for carrying tools, diagnostic equipment, spare parts, extra coolant, oil, breakdown membership card and satellite telephone in case you get 100km's before your first break down. :tongue:

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3 hours ago, Audible

Ducati luggage is for carrying tools, diagnostic equipment, spare parts, extra coolant, oil, breakdown membership card and satellite telephone in case you get 100km's before your first break down. :tongue:

I read somewhere that they were also specifically engineered to hold adult diapers for their intended demographic - old guys who can't lean over on their Panigale anymore  :tongue:

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Well here she is😁

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Nice! I dig the pipes.

Must feel good to be senseless. I guess now, you can't even carry your wallet and you have to plan for three breakdowns on every ride.


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grond1234, 12/12/2017 at 6:50 AM

Well here she is😁

[image: 20171211_160644.jpg]

Like it  :cool: That was my alternative buy but had a slight preference for the VFR. Test-rode one and loved the lightweight, easy-steering feel but needed more 'tour' than 'sport' for my purposes this time around (my daily mileage would have involved stopping twice for fuel). Will wait and see what tweaks occur over the next couple of revamps.

Oh , and that 'all Italian bikes break down all the time' thing that you get from people who only ever ride Japanese bikes is total cobblers... :rolleyes:

Those red coolant pipes don’t do it for me, but each to their own.  

^ I love those pipes. Looks nice in contrast the the black engine.

I do love race based modifications though!