Are Ducatis really worth it?

[kneescraper]

Looking around trademe (ok theres my first mistake), Ducatis seem to have a expensive price tag. Ive noticed this for ages but never thought about it enough to question it.

A old Ducati Paso and they are wanting $7000, late 90's 916 and 996's and those are going for $17,000 +. What mates these used bikes worth so much, Ive even heard that Ducatis make mechanics out of riders. Are they really that bad...and are they really worth that much?

As a young boy I always wanted a 996 however the price tag frightens me alittle, I would hate to see the repair bills if anything goes wrong.

Are they worth it, are they good bikes to ride and are they expensive to up keep?

Personal thoughts on them would be cool...

[canarlee]

if you do get one dont forget to label all the parts with your postcode!

thats for when they drop off (which they do) people can just post them back to you!!!






*awaits abuse from mcjim lol*

[Scouse]

Well ya see its like this "Something is worth what ever somone is willing to pay for it" thats it in a nutshell.

[orangeback]

ive got an old bevel , had her for 11 years , wouldn't sell it as i couldnt afford to as it owes me 21k and it probly only worth 7-9k on a good day , i love riding it, all 69hp, puts a grin on my face every time , it atracts attenion when ever its used (all of twice a year ) its all noise but love it , my thery is if i don't use it , it dont cost me money ,
think of an old europen Car (124 sport Fiat) compared to you'r 120y datsin

[scumdog]

Depends what you want - if it's character you want (see posts on that by idb!!!) you'll very likely end up with a truck load of same.

But cool bikes with nice note and style baby...oh yeah, loads of style....

[R1madness]

Actually they are relatively inexpensive to maintain. Its just that you cant get away with skipping services like you can on a Japaneese bike. Things like belts are easy to do and not very time consuming to replace compared to a cam chain but you need to do belts every 20000km and a cam chain should last about 80000km (end cost about the same). Valve shims are simple enough but take a while and some mechanical knowledge is required. But once set correctly they hardly ever need adjustment.
Cost, well thats a matter of where you buy! Try us for a quote when you are serious about buying your 996. You will be pleasently supprised.

[miSTa]

I would hate to see the repair bills if anything goes wrong.
A lot of bikes are expensive to repair.


Are they worth it,
Up to you to decide, for me - yes every cent. :love:


are they good bikes to ride and are they expensive to up keep?
No, complete and utter myth. :yes:

[98tls]

I wouldnt pay anything for a Paso myself,they were a dog just like the 89 750 sport i had.The old bevel drive dukes,i love them and wish i had the dosh to have a few in the shed,The new ones,well who can fault them really,yes there expensive..well some of them are but they have the best of everything so expensive they will be,look at the new 1098,awsome bit of kit i am guessing but for me anyway doesnt hold any real desire,depends what you want to do with a bike,on real roads in the real world with real world limitations read as cops/shitty roads/cars/trucks etc etc i cant see myself going any quicker than i do on what i have.You only live once go for it if thats what you want..your along time below ground.

[Cajun]

One of the biggest thing i found, is if you own a duke,

Is make sure who ever does the work on KNOWS dukes, and works on them every day sorta thing, since they don't they do take a bit more work than a japanese bike, but a proper ducati spanner man knows what to look/hear so it is right.

[kneescraper]

Awesome response's, I love the look of all the Ducatis!!! Style well Ducatis all have style....even the Paso's.

The fact that I require my bikes to by my daily transport it would be used every day. This is just a dig to see if I should keep my dream of owning a 996 alive. They all look like they have been well kept...

I dont see many Ducatis with high KM's, is that because the owners treat them like show ponys or can they not reach high KM's.

Interesting discussion but.

[T.W.R]

Can't really comment on later generation Dukes like 916/748s Monsters etc and onwards; but all the bevels, Pantah based designs etc are pure class :yes:
sure there's plenty of issues to deal with during ownership but when things are clicking into place it's a magic experience :Punk:
Big open country sweepers on a well set-up bevel with the contis barking & dels doing their bit is sublime :love: they handle like they're on rails, sound glorious, and get everyone's attention.
Early pantahs brought middleweight sports into another dimension and the likes of 600/650 pantahs and 750 F1s (including Montjuich & Laguna Seca models) ridden well even by todays standards would keep a lot of bikes honest if not scare them a bit.
Many seem to forget about 851s & their many derivatives and what they did for Ducati in WSB racing, instead lusting after 916s which were a step ahead again but have a look at a well set-up 888 SP5 or 888SPS and it's pure lust :love:

Older Bevels with Contis are a magic sound on song :love:, Pantahs are just purely fun machines, & 851s set the precedent that put Ducati where it is now.
Sure you have to be pedantic about maintenance and they seem to have the most repetitive gremlins known to motorcycling; But they've class, charisma, and ageless beauty and when you're in the groove on one few things come close to the experience :Punk:

[miSTa]

Forgot something...this site is a great resource on all things Ducati: http://www.ducati.ms

[T.W.R]

Paso models were supposed to be one of the weirdest things to learn to ride though :yes: plus they look like a mobile jellybean :shutup:

[kneescraper]

Ahh now thats the reply I needed...makes me wanna ride one!!!!!Im not up to play with the older ones...996 has always been the one for me. :)

So they must be well maintaned....do they eat tyres and chains? Do they have enough straight line power to keep up with the Jappers?

[DUCATI*HARD]

once you go duke,theres no going back:Punk:

[98tls]

once you go duke,theres no going back:Punk: I did,and with absolutly no regrets.

[kneescraper]

Hahaha they cant be that bad, can they? What made the Ducati experence bad for you 98tls?

[T.W.R]

Hahaha they cant be that bad, can they? What made the Ducati experence bad for you 98tls?


I wouldnt pay anything for a Paso myself,they were a dog just like the 89 750 sport i had.

:shutup: Mike must have got a lemon 750 sport :shit: sure they took a lot to learn to ride with small fat wheels either end and they weren't endowed with heaps of poke, but once learnt they're great fun in tight country :yes:
Two Wheels test in 89 is reflective of that when Anthony Seymour took one out for the test and had one of the best battles he'd had on a bike :yes: he was up against a GSXR11 and totally embarrassed it in the tight going but once anything more than a 300m straight was had the GSXR just reeled him in :lol:

[DUCATI*HARD]

I did,and with absolutly no regrets.

well the man went backwards thats what happened:gob:

[98tls]

Hahaha they cant be that bad, can they? What made the Ducati experence bad for you 98tls? It was never bad mate it just wasnt all that,i grew up with an old man who had an 860GT/78 900 ss/80 900 ss.i was in awe of those bikes when i was young and there was always going to be a ducati some day,i had a 89 750 sport in the tight twistys it was fun but i just got over it and moved on...before buying my TLS i rode a few later model 900ss and for my money the TL is twice the bike,i can understand people that have them loving them,i loved mine but as i say i just moved on..hell if i was a few years younger a 1098 i would seriously consider,but i am not and am having to much fun mucking about with what i have.

[McJim]

I wouldn't commute on a desmoquattro Ducati but I would (and do) commute on a desmodue Ducati.

The 2 valve engines are pretty bulletproof and cheap to maintain but even with a basic Ducati you get the sort of brakes, wheels and suspension that you have to fit aftermarket to jappas.

I echo previous sentiments though - once you've ridden a Ducati....there's just something about them.

Test drive one if you get the chance. and You'll see what we're talking about.

I personally don't have any use for excessive straight line speeds so the little 600ss is fine for me.

[Mr. Peanut]

999s are surprisingly cheap for what you're getting.

Seeing them for 16-17k on trademe.

[spudchucka]

I got my Monster off Peter at Emoto. http://www.emoto.co.nz/

Its the second bike I have purchased through them and I reckon they are well worth a look. If they don't have what you are after then contact Peter and he will try to find what you want.

I enjoy the Duc heaps more than either the VTR or the TLS that I have owned previously. The jap bikes probably are better in some aspects but the Duc puts a bigger smile on my face.

[kneescraper]

I love the look of your 600SS McJim, how much did that set you back and whats the overall condition of the bike?

[McJim]

I love the look of your 600SS McJim, how much did that set you back and whats the overall condition of the bike?

10 year old bike. Mint fairings, mint frame, mint wheels bought with 37,000km on the clock. NZ New with full service history - all services done - I just had to get the 40,000km done (Belts and Tappets plus oil and filter).

No signs of a drop BUT one nasty hidden surprise. At some point a previous owner had over tightened a chain which had snapped at pace and knocked a hole in the engine above the front sprocket. It had been repaired with bog or kneadit or something and painted silver so I didn't spot it until it started leaking oil.

Got some pieces of aluminium cut and fitted to the hole and it's good as new :)

I paid $6,750 which might have ben a wee bit over the odds for a 600.

Bear in mind the payoff with the reliability of the desmodues is a lack of power.

My 6 hundie only puts out 53hp but it has a lot of torque which is very useable.

the 900ss is still only about 80hp but again puts out a lot of torque and delivers it early so it's a lot of fun in the twisties.

reasonable prices for these bikes below:

900ss 1994 - $7,000
900ss 1997 - $10,000 (F.E) special edition that year - last square headlight.
900ss 1999 - $9,000 (new shape)
900ss 2000 - $10,000

Or let emoto know what you're after.

[Dooly]

I love my Ducati, something about it.
Neat noise, goes well. Wont outrun litre jappas but can stick with them on the twisties etc, and grips the road awesome.
It has low kms so maintinance has'nt come up yet, but does'nt look to be too bad.
I will be updating to a 1098 I reckon. Dunno when yet.

[imdying]

with a basic Ducati you get the sort of brakesYep, phear the single disc front end!! ROWR!

[young1]

I compare owning a Ducati (I had a 2000 SS750 for 4 years) to having Jennifer Anniston as a partner. Lots of up keep, expensive to maintain, needs regular maintenance but great to look at, fantastic lines and what a ride!!

[Kflasher]

I had the 748R 00', loved the look, maintainence was not a huge issue.
I would suggest to check out the v-twin power characteristics first prior to forking all that dosh.
I preferred the inline four, hence the trade.
But all in all a great machine with shite loads of torque.

[terbang]

once you go duke,theres no going back:Punk:

Oh they make them in black too...

[Angusdog]

I'm in the market for my first Ducati, having sold my CBR600. I'm looking at Emoto's range, and considering their Monsters. 8K gets me a tidy Dark 2 valve, 9K gets me a nicer red 4 valve, and 10K gets me a Senna 4 valve, assuming no-one else bids on them. Or a Multistrada for 10K. All standard.

I'm assuming the difference between 2 valve and 4 valve isn't going to be too great around town (showing up as a difference in top end), and I'm not into out-and-out sport riding any more but want something which will be durable, hold its value and be a hoot to own.

The advantage in going for the Dark is I could pop some noisy pipes on, and upgrade my riding gear.

Are there any other points to look out for? Emoto seem to pop a new belt on as a matter of course.

[janno]

I've got a Ducati 500 GTL sitting in the garage waiting for some valve TLC and carb mucking aboutage.

It is AU$4K tied up and wasted, but I can't bring myself to sell it. I'm considering bringing it over to UnZud when I can afford it. (Sometime in the next ten years . . .)

It's probably just an old bike to most people, but there is something about it that makes it very difficult to part with.

I've ridden it out twice, about 100km in total, and it's a real head turner. Not because of it's stunning good looks I suppose, but rather because they are pretty rare over here.

It's a ton of fun to ride. Very addictive.

[Angusdog]

Oh, another question: Tail chops? Are they legal? I'm thinking of potentially getting a fender eliminator, although not too keen on chopping a bit of the frame, but they look so hot, all stubby looking :)

[gijoe1313]

You did the right thing by holding onto it! That's a keeper - definitely in a class of its own :yes:

[McJim]

Oh, another question: Tail chops? Are they legal? I'm thinking of potentially getting a fender eliminator, although not too keen on chopping a bit of the frame, but they look so hot, all stubby looking :)

Look up threads by manwithav8 as he's gonna chop the arse off a Monster....I'd just get a Buell if you like that atubby shape so much though.

[Scouse]

I love my Ducati, something about it.
Neat noise, goes well. Wont outrun litre jappas but can stick with them on the twisties etc, and grips the road awesome.
It has low kms so maintinance has'nt come up yet, but does'nt look to be too bad.
I will be updating to a 1098 I reckon. Dunno when yet.Traitor.........

[yod]

It was never bad mate it just wasnt all that,i grew up with an old man who had an 860GT/78 900 ss/80 900 ss.i was in awe of those bikes when i was young and there was always going to be a ducati some day,i had a 89 750 sport in the tight twistys it was fun but i just got over it and moved on...before buying my TLS i rode a few later model 900ss and for my money the TL is twice the bike,i can understand people that have them loving them,i loved mine but as i say i just moved on..hell if i was a few years younger a 1098 i would seriously consider,but i am not and am having to much fun mucking about with what i have.

you stuck with a twin tho :lol: cant beat that sound eh? :rockon:

[Animal]

My two cents worth... avoid the Paso, even if it's given to you. For reason not even God knows, the thing came out with a Weber automotive carb which was never up to the task. Bye.

[Masterchop]

I'm assuming the difference between 2 valve and 4 valve isn't going to be too great around town (showing up as a difference in top end), and I'm not into out-and-out sport riding any more but want something which will be durable, hold its value and be a hoot to own.
.

There is a big difference between 4 valve and 2 valve in performance, although as you say you are after round town fun so the 2 valve is probably ok, and the maintainance is alot cheaper, really just because they are much easier to work on.

But some of the 4 valves look soooooo hot.Check out my profile picture.:Punk:

[Edbear]

I've got a Ducati 500 GTL sitting in the garage waiting for some valve TLC and carb mucking aboutage.


If you sell it you will always regret it!

As for the question, the answer is the same as for Harley's, - "definitely not!"
However, if I could afford it I would have a late model 900SS in my garage like a shot! I'd also have a 1200 Sportster.

But whoever said liking and buying motorcycles was a logical decision...?

My mate whom I have known since birth, has this locked in his house and rides it very occaisionally...

[janno]

If you sell it you will always regret it!



My mate whom I have known since birth, has this locked in his house and rides it very occaisionally...

Yes, I'll hold on to it. I'll just have to find a millionaire aged 92 with a heart condition.

Your friend's bike is absolutely glorious. You've inspired me, now! And that style fairing is exactly what my bike needs. Plus a repaint in red. Red ones go faster.

[Edbear]

Yes, I'll hold on to it. I'll just have to find a millionaire aged 92 with a heart condition.

Your friend's bike is absolutely glorious. You've inspired me, now! And that style fairing is exactly what my bike needs. Plus a repaint in red. Red ones go faster.


And you'll marry him for love, of course...:yes::shutup:

Yep, his bike is beautiful and sounds as good as it looks! He rode it on a tour of the South Island, once! He's a tough guy, eh?

[NighthawkNZ]

you stuck with a twin tho :lol: cant beat that sound eh? :rockon:

something about the big v-twin :)

[Wannabiker]

Had my 900s for about a month now. Tegmioni pipes set off car alarms along the street in Lower Hutt!! Has been tweaked a little to gove over 90 hp and it hauls!! 2 valve air cooled motor is pretty bulletproof and has been around for a while... Always attracts attention, even when parked!:scooter:

[Edbear]

Had my 900s for about a month now. Tegmioni pipes set off car alarms along the street in Lower Hutt!! Has been tweaked a little to gove over 90 hp and it hauls!! 2 valve air cooled motor is pretty bulletproof and has been around for a while... Always attracts attention, even when parked!:scooter:



That's the model I was talking about!:yes: Nice!

[kneescraper]

Had my 900s for about a month now. Tegmioni pipes set off car alarms along the street in Lower Hutt!! Has been tweaked a little to gove over 90 hp and it hauls!! 2 valve air cooled motor is pretty bulletproof and has been around for a while... Always attracts attention, even when parked!:scooter:

NOW THATS A SEXY BIKE!!!!! Thats almost (no offence) as sexy as a 996! Is the bike good two up Wannabiker?

[nudemetalz]

What ever happened to the Supermono?
They never made it into a road bike unfortunately, reckon it would have made a great street-legal machine.
(75hp @10,000rpm from 550cc single and only 125kg dry !!)

It's also one of the best looking Dukes.
(you can see hints of the styling on the later 900SS's I guess)

[spudchucka]

Here's mine.

[bimotabob]

999s are surprisingly cheap for what you're getting.

Seeing them for 16-17k on trademe.

What your getting is deviod of decent style and nice lines like the 916.
It's not surprising that they are "cheap" they just look shocking.
I have not heard a nice thing about how they look since they came out.
I think they (Duacti) copped a lot of flack but the new model makes up for the
shall we say momentary lapse of reason.

Regards
Jason

[young1]

Had my 900s for about a month now. Tegmioni pipes set off car alarms along the street in Lower Hutt!! Has been tweaked a little to gove over 90 hp and it hauls!! 2 valve air cooled motor is pretty bulletproof and has been around for a while... Always attracts attention, even when parked!:scooter:

I had a yellow 750 with arrow pipes, used to have the same problem parking in the garage at work, when I started it the car alarms would go off (sure made me get out of the garage quick).

My first proper road bike, a Ducati was all I had ever wanted since I saw a Ducati Damagh(?) in the late 1970s.

[manwithav8]

SO what if there is a little extra maintenance. Learn to do it yourself, that way you will get to know your bike more, and more, and more....That way if the slightest thing is out of the ordinary, you will know!!!

Duc MOnster by the way!!

[kneescraper]

I have to 100% disagree with you mate! I think the 999s are real hot, their front lights stacked on top of each other are awesome. Even my wife thinks they are hot...so that says something.


What your getting is deviod of decent style and nice lines like the 916.
It's not surprising that they are "cheap" they just look shocking.
I have not heard a nice thing about how they look since they came out.
I think they (Duacti) copped a lot of flack but the new model makes up for the
shall we say momentary lapse of reason.

Regards
Jason

[Drew]

It's fuckin simple, a bikes worth, is what someone is prepared to pay for it. END OF STORY.

If a guy or girl is willing to pay the extra for the bike they want, it's worth it to them, and that's all that counts.

[McJim]

I just couldn't be arsed with a bike that needed serviced every 6,000 km so got a ducati with a 10,000 km service interval.

Saves me a few hundered dollars per year in maintenence.

Yeah, it's worth getting a Ducati just to save on the service costs...sorry, was that the question?

[Masterchop]

What your getting is deviod of decent style and nice lines like the 916.
It's not surprising that they are "cheap" they just look shocking.
I have not heard a nice thing about how they look since they came out.
I think they (Duacti) copped a lot of flack but the new model makes up for the
shall we say momentary lapse of reason.

Regards
Jason

You ride a Bimota mate, are you really qualified to knock the looks of the 999.

[Ghost_Bullet]

Ducati worth it... mmmm no no, just a little to much charactor uh, who wants to be roadside when you can be tearing on down the seal..... just enuf charactor is what ya need.


Enuf said

[Wannabiker]

NOW THATS A SEXY BIKE!!!!! Thats almost (no offence) as sexy as a 996! Is the bike good two up Wannabiker?

Yep! Took the girlfriend for a spin the other day (on a closed road course... of course!) Changed into 6th gear just over 200kph...and still pulln!!! Oh...pulls the chicks too. If you gettn a Ducati...get a biposto (2seater) coz yep, you WILL get to take chicks for a ride!!:yes:

[T.W.R]

I have to 100% disagree with you mate! I think the 999s are real hot, their front lights stacked on top of each other are awesome. Even my wife thinks they are hot...so that says something.

The 916 has classic lines by comparison but they looked totally horrible with the single square headlight that aussie had to put up with :sick: looked like someone had just got an aftermarket light & superglued it to the fairing

[desmo dave]

over 20 years ago

[flame]

Y
If you gettn a Ducati...get a biposto (2seater) coz yep, you WILL get to take chicks for a ride!!:yes:


LOL....even better when the chick is riding her own! she'll love it! No hesitation in saying I'll be back on a Duc real soon :yes: and I CANT WAIT!!

[bimotabob]

You ride a Bimota mate, are you really qualified to knock the looks of the 999.

Yeh I am qualified as I have taste.
Mine looks fast and sleek, it has style the right colour and lines as well as lower service intervals due to the Yamaha engine.
The 999 sucks and you know it -I'm not getting at Ducati - Bimota have made shockers - the mantra for example.

Regards
BB

[JimO]

i knew you would show up eventually

[McJim]

I like the 749 and the 999 - mainly because other people don't.


Baaaaaaaa.

[Masterchop]

LOL....even better when the chick is riding her own! she'll love it! No hesitation in saying I'll be back on a Duc real soon :yes: and I CANT WAIT!!

Good to hear that Flame, looking forward to seeing it.

[flame]

Ducati worth it... mmmm no no, just a little to much charactor uh, who wants to be roadside when you can be tearing on down the seal..... just enuf charactor is what ya need.


Enuf said
150,000 kms and never was 'roadside'. on any dukes I owned......oh um ......until for some reason i switched to a 'gixxer' and held up the entire DUCATI club 900kms from home doh!!!!!!

not dissing the gixxer......just saying that ANY bike can break down, and maybe I was lucky with my Duke's, but unfair call to state that a Duke may cause you to be 'roadside', when in my opinion and experience shows otherwise.

[2cati]

Yeh I am qualified as I have taste.
Mine looks fast and sleek, it has style the right colour and lines as well as lower service intervals due to the Yamaha engine.
The 999 sucks and you know it -I'm not getting at Ducati - Bimota have made shockers - the mantra for example.

Regards
BB

That's classic , The money you save on services you can put towards spare parts that need to be made from scratch. know a guy that cant get insurance cover because of availability of bits.
Not that accidents happen (getting cut off at roundabouts to name one of many shitti things that can occur)

Taste is in the eye of the beholder.
I love my 999 ,you don't .. that's fine

Ducati number 4 ,not one breakdown, maybe I'm lucky ....or maybe its not the eighties anymore.

[spudchucka]

A question for other Ducati owners:

Have any of you experienced problems with running different fuel octanes?

I've had a bit of a problem with cold starting. I've been blaming the battery as when I had it tested it showed up as being slightly in the weak zone. Its only been a problem on cold mornings though, starting it cold in the afternoons hasn't been a problem. Once started it has run fine, its just the starting that has been a pain.

Anyway, I recently tried running it on 91 octane rather than the 96 - 98 that I have always preferred to run my bikes on. On 91 the cold starting problem seems to have suddenly corrected itself. It still requires a few cranks to get it going, (5 - 10 seconds) but it starts much much better on the lower octane fuel.

Anyone else found this or does my Duc just have a little more character than most?

[orangeback]

A question for other Ducati owners:

Have any of you experienced problems with running different fuel octanes?

I've had a bit of a problem with cold starting. I've been blaming the battery as when I had it tested it showed up as being slightly in the weak zone. Its only been a problem on cold mornings though, starting it cold in the afternoons hasn't been a problem. Once started it has run fine, its just the starting that has been a pain.

Anyway, I recently tried running it on 91 octane rather than the 96 - 98 that I have always preferred to run my bikes on. On 91 the cold starting problem seems to have suddenly corrected itself. It still requires a few cranks to get it going, (5 - 10 seconds) but it starts much much better on the lower octane fuel.

Anyone else found this or does my Duc just have a little more character than most?

must try that with mine
another thing i found is mine dosent like NGK spark plugs , seem to run beter on L82 champion plugs

[R1madness]

Anyone that wants a great price on imported dukes send me an email saying you saw me on Kiwibike. We can do sharp prices for MR2a bikes or even cheaper if you want them uncomplied. Please do not waste my time tho by asking for quotes if you are not serious about buying.
Ask around about our reputation
Cheers

[desmo dave]

A question for other Ducati owners:

Have any of you experienced problems with running different fuel octanes?

I've had a bit of a problem with cold starting. I've been blaming the battery as when I had it tested it showed up as being slightly in the weak zone. Its only been a problem on cold mornings though, starting it cold in the afternoons hasn't been a problem. Once started it has run fine, its just the starting that has been a pain.

Anyway, I recently tried running it on 91 octane rather than the 96 - 98 that I have always preferred to run my bikes on. On 91 the cold starting problem seems to have suddenly corrected itself. It still requires a few cranks to get it going, (5 - 10 seconds) but it starts much much better on the lower octane fuel.

Anyone else found this or does my Duc just have a little more character than most?What model ducati are you running?.Im on my 3rd battery on my 2003 ss,Had a hick up getting my first replacement as the casbolts man kept telling me that the battery was the sane as the earlyer super sports.I said do you have 1 on the showroom floor, yes was the reply.Go and have a look i said, ok..He comes back saying,, yes your right it is different.No 1 has ask for a replacement for your model bike yet and they didnt have 1 in stock.He said get back to me if you cant locate 1.What a waste of time he was.I got 1 from my local battey guy, lasted about 3 months so they re[placed that with a diffent brand and thats gone trouble free for 18 months.The battery is doing a big job as when you turn the key on, the lights come on, the fuel pump springs to life to feed the injectors.Then you have to crank it over and fire it up.So the small battery is doing a big job me thinks.Now fuel, i havent noticed any seat of the pants differents to any fuel i have used.I was told that 91 has less crap in it and seems to run well on it anyway.Havent had enough 98 gas in it for long enough to judge that fuel..And for reliability.....lots of miles and over 20 years of ducati ownership and not once have any of my ducatis stoped me from riding it home.

[imdying]

I'd believe that, sounds like it has trouble getting out the garage first :rofl:

[McJim]

A question for other Ducati owners:

Have any of you experienced problems with running different fuel octanes?

I've had a bit of a problem with cold starting. I've been blaming the battery as when I had it tested it showed up as being slightly in the weak zone. Its only been a problem on cold mornings though, starting it cold in the afternoons hasn't been a problem. Once started it has run fine, its just the starting that has been a pain.

Anyway, I recently tried running it on 91 octane rather than the 96 - 98 that I have always preferred to run my bikes on. On 91 the cold starting problem seems to have suddenly corrected itself. It still requires a few cranks to get it going, (5 - 10 seconds) but it starts much much better on the lower octane fuel.

Anyone else found this or does my Duc just have a little more character than most?

Check the stats for your bike - if the compression is low you will be better using lower octane fuel - mine is about 9:1 I think and the 91 runs fine in it - 95-98 just fouls the plugs after a while.

My bike starts first time every time - I just use a little choke in the winter mornings.

It's a desmodue you have innit?

[idb]

My two cents worth... avoid the Paso, even if it's given to you. For reason not even God knows, the thing came out with a Weber automotive carb which was never up to the task. Bye.

The later ones had injection and were apparently good bikes....that's if you can get the styling.

[roogazza]

I'll just have to find a millionaire aged 92 with a heart condition.

I've got a heart condition , honest I have ! Gaz.

[idb]

My old Darmah has never let me down.

The 888 on the other hand has been a challenge.
I bought it with 32,000 on the clock which must be the age for things to need replaced.....rectifier/regulator, battery, fuel pump and I think that the radiator fan has packed up.
Personally I don't mind having to fix it....it's part of the enjoyment for me....but then again I'm told I'm a bit strange..............

Are they worth it?
It depends what you want.
If you want a bike to be reliable with minimum maintenance and maximum performance all for minimum outlay then they probably aren't.
But my interest in bikes goes beyond that so they are to me.

As for the fuel I have only ever run it on 98 and it starts and goes well.

To wade into the 999 styling discussion.
I think that they are one of those bikes that look better in the flesh than photos.
I think they're nice bikes....in fact I want one.

[Animal]

The later ones had injection and were apparently good bikes....that's if you can get the styling.

The Paso I owned was one of the early generation, which sadly did have that diabolical carb. I'm an aircraft engineer, so the aerodynamic elements of the styling appealed to me (unsurprisingly) but the bike's performance was really disappointing. It did everything else a Ducati is meant to do, especially in ridiculously tight twisty bits of road, but it always felt asthmatic. I'm fairly switched on in terms of technical things, yet I spent far too many weekends with the bike in pieces, trying to rectify this condition. There's probably noting that I didn't try, and the accumulation of modified airboxes, filters, jets and sundry bits were becoming an expensive pile of unsuccesful fixes. I guess at some point my frustration and disappointment exceeded my desire to sort the bike's lethargic performance out. I'd only had the thing for about a year, then traded it in on an 851. And what a difference that was!:yes:

[idb]

The Paso I owned was one of the early generation, which sadly did have that diabolical carb. I'm an aircraft engineer, so the aerodynamic elements of the styling appealed to me (unsurprisingly) but the bike's performance was really disappointing. It did everything else a Ducati is meant to do, especially in ridiculously tight twisty bits of road, but it always felt asthmatic. I'm fairly switched on in terms of technical things, yet I spent far too many weekends with the bike in pieces, trying to rectify this condition. There's probably noting that I didn't try, and the accumulation of modified airboxes, filters, jets and sundry bits were becoming an expensive pile of unsuccesful fixes. I guess at some point my frustration and disappointment exceeded my desire to sort the bike's lethargic performance out. I'd only had the thing for about a year, then traded it in on an 851. And what a difference that was!:yes:

The styling has grown on me over the years.
I used to think that they were the ugliest post-bevel ever made but now I'd like one as a tourer (injected model of course 907ie).

[spudchucka]

Check the stats for your bike - if the compression is low you will be better using lower octane fuel - mine is about 9:1 I think and the 91 runs fine in it - 95-98 just fouls the plugs after a while.

My bike starts first time every time - I just use a little choke in the winter mornings.

It's a desmodue you have innit?

2004 Monster, 1000Sie, fuel injected, 2 valve.

Its weird but the engine seems to idle smother and quieter on the 91 octane as well.

[imdying]

The 999 is as ugly as sin... only a current owner would disagree, and then, they'd probably change their mind once they sold it.

However!! Look at the rear cylinder head area, the subframe, the swingarm, the front forks, all beautifully made, and nicer than the 916 series imho.

At the price they are, and that they're a narrow valve head, they're a steal. I'd hit it for sure. Not really much use to me though... I like to modify things, a lot. I'd feel pretty guilty about taking a sabre saw to the sub frame of one of those like I did the SV. But once I get old enough that my garage time becomes limited, and the down time for mods becomes longer, I'll probably buy something along those lines for a hack bike. I know that seems bizzare to a lot of people... jap bike for fun, duke to hack around on, but different things buzz different people in different ways :yes: They're pretty, but not blindingly so.

[McJim]

2004 Monster, 1000Sie, fuel injected, 2 valve.

Its weird but the engine seems to idle smother and quieter on the 91 octane as well.

It's a double spark engine too from the looks of things.

Nice.

http://www.bikez.com/motorcycles/ducati_monster_1000_s_ie_2004.php

compression is 10:1 which is still low for a bike so will prefer lower octane due to the lower flash point of lower octane fuel.

[vifferman]

A question for other Ducati owners:

Have any of you experienced problems with running different fuel octanes?

I've had a bit of a problem with cold starting. I've been blaming the battery as when I had it tested it showed up as being slightly in the weak zone. Its only been a problem on cold mornings though, starting it cold in the afternoons hasn't been a problem. Once started it has run fine, its just the starting that has been a pain.

Anyway, I recently tried running it on 91 octane rather than the 96 - 98 that I have always preferred to run my bikes on. On 91 the cold starting problem seems to have suddenly corrected itself. It still requires a few cranks to get it going, (5 - 10 seconds) but it starts much much better on the lower octane fuel.

Anyone else found this or does my Duc just have a little more character than most?
That's not just a Ducati thing - the VFR prefers 91 in the winter too, even though it's not super cold in D'Auckland. Higher octane gas is more difficult to ignite.

[07fatboy]

Hi there fellow Kbers,about 3 weeks ago i had the fortunate chance to test blat thenew 1098...lets say i'm still shaking now,this is 1 beast of a bike and i,m tryna figure out how to get a black 1 of these babies parked in the lounge without getting divorced,if i cant pursuade her to get 1 of these i'll tell her i'll get the smaller capacity 800 when it comes out it'll go slower hehehe

[Guitana]

Hi there fellow Kbers,about 3 weeks ago i had the fortunate chance to test blat thenew 1098...lets say i'm still shaking now,this is 1 beast of a bike and i,m tryna figure out how to get a black 1 of these babies parked in the lounge without getting divorced,if i cant pursuade her to get 1 of these i'll tell her i'll get the smaller capacity 800 when it comes out it'll go slower hehehe

Do what I did Bro!!!

Send the missus on an all expenses paid trip to a spa for the weekend and get her pampered!
So when she comes back after two days she 'll feel so good she wont give a rats arse about the new 1098 sitting in the front room!!!

Or so I thought!!!!

Yes the dukes have a style all of their own !! But you need to have the money to support the habit!!!!!!

[bimotabob]

That's classic , The money you save on services you can put towards spare parts that need to be made from scratch. know a guy that cant get insurance cover because of availability of bits.
Not that accidents happen (getting cut off at roundabouts to name one of many shitti things that can occur)

Taste is in the eye of the beholder.
I love my 999 ,you don't .. that's fine

Ducati number 4 ,not one breakdown, maybe I'm lucky ....or maybe its not the eighties anymore.

Yeh I agree fully with the taste bit, each to his own.
I'm sure they are an reliable bike as Ducati have come a long way since
the good ole nineteen eighties!

One off parts are cheaper actually, I know as I have spent a fair bit of cash
with F1 engineering with my last bike.
I just got a new H/bar made for $60 - fair price I thought.

I also was surprised when I went to get a new indicator as mine takes
the common Ducati ones, $35 inc bulb genuine!
Suzuki ones eg bandit go for about $100 genuine.
Are parts often this well priced - or was it just good luck?

Regards
BB

[McJim]

Yeh I agree fully with the taste bit, each to his own.
I'm sure they are an reliable bike as Ducati have come a long way since
the good ole nineteen eighties!

One off parts are cheaper actually, I know as I have spent a fair bit of cash
with F1 engineering with my last bike.
I just got a new H/bar made for $60 - fair price I thought.

I also was surprised when I went to get a new indicator as mine takes
the common Ducati ones, $35 inc bulb genuine!
Suzuki ones eg bandit go for about $100 genuine.
Are parts often this well priced - or was it just good luck?

Regards
BB

I had to get a new Speedo cable - $40 complete genuine part. Lost an indicator to a stone chip a few months ago too - integrated indicator (not on a stem) $50 incl. bulb.

Apart form a repair due to a previous owner's negligence my Ducati is costing less to run than my VTR250.

[Wannabiker]

Yep $35 for a Ducati indicator is bout right... $55 for a Hyosung indicator. Side mirrors not too bad either. $80? compared to $170 for a Hyosung GT250.
That Ducati Indicator does quite a few models too!

[janno]

I've got a heart condition , honest I have ! Gaz.

Ooooh, we have a millionaire in our midst, do we? !

[desmo dave]

I had to get a new Speedo cable - $40 complete genuine part. Lost an indicator to a stone chip a few months ago too - integrated indicator (not on a stem) $50 incl. bulb.

Apart form a repair due to a previous owner's negligence my Ducati is costing less to run than my VTR250.
make you laugh.Ive seen people wanting more for a 2nd hand part than a new 1.Where are all the ducati knockers, seems very quiet on here.

[DUCATI*HARD]

Yeh I am qualified as I have taste.
Mine looks fast and sleek, it has style the right colour and lines as well as lower service intervals due to the Yamaha engine.
The 999 sucks and you know it -I'm not getting at Ducati - Bimota have made shockers - the mantra for example.

Regards
BB


yeh i am qualified=LEARNER
i have taste=BAD TASTE
mine looks fast and sleek=A CROSS BETWEEN A TORTOISE AND A SNAIL
has style the right colour and the lines=A WHALE
lower service interval=YOU SURE
the 999 sucks=GAS AND TYRES
im not getting at ducati=JUST THE PEOPLE WHO RIDE EM
bimota have made shockers=GOT THAT RIGHT,YOURS INCLUDED:gob:

[Drew]

Where are all the ducati knockers, seems very quiet on here.

I'm forced to withdraw any knocking I've done. Except to say, I'm still bemused, as to why Ducati dont have fully afjustable suspension on all thier sports bikes. Not even the S4R, which I'd still very much like to own, has compression damping adjustment FFS!

Little things like that get to me when paying a premium for the premium. (Forgive the misuse of the word, but it was damn near poetic, and I like to document anything I can pass of as witty).

[bimotabob]

yeh i am qualified=LEARNER
i have taste=BAD TASTE
mine looks fast and sleek=A CROSS BETWEEN A TORTOISE AND A SNAIL
has style the right colour and the lines=A WHALE
lower service interval=YOU SURE
the 999 sucks=GAS AND TYRES
im not getting at ducati=JUST THE PEOPLE WHO RIDE EM
bimota have made shockers=GOT THAT RIGHT,YOURS INCLUDED:gob:

Hit a nerve with you I see - fair enough as I insulted your bike.
I like Ducati's actually as they usually have the kind of style
Itailians are known for.
I only dislike the 999 because the model before and the model after
Are so much nicer to look at.
I think you can't wait to get a 1098.
If the first person to hate my bike rides a 999 then so be it:yes:
We'll let time decide the fate of your treasured ride, mine has already weathered 15 years and I get good comments all the time.
What do you mean by whale? it weighs 180kg that's not too bad even now.

Kind Regards
BB

[imdying]

It's worth noting for people that haven't had the pleasure, that the 999 is a whole heap fuglier in photos than it is in the flesh. On that note, saw the new Kwaka Buell rip off thingy a couple of nights ago... looked pretty cool, in a twisted sort of way... the next night I saw a photo of it... ugliest bike... evaarrrr... huge difference between photos and the flesh... biggest I've seen yet.

[spudchucka]

It's a double spark engine too from the looks of things.

Nice.

http://www.bikez.com/motorcycles/ducati_monster_1000_s_ie_2004.php

compression is 10:1 which is still low for a bike so will prefer lower octane due to the lower flash point of lower octane fuel.

Yes, its the dual spark model.

[Edbear]

... huge difference between photos and the flesh... .



Yeah, I look much better in the flesh, 'slong as most of it is covered up with clothes...:yes:

[Masterchop]

I'm forced to withdraw any knocking I've done. Except to say, I'm still bemused, as to why Ducati dont have fully afjustable suspension on all thier sports bikes. Not even the S4R, which I'd still very much like to own, has compression damping adjustment FFS!

Drew Im not sure about the S4R, but all the Superbike model Ducatis (748,916,996,998,999) have adjustable everything,
Thats Ride height adjust,steering head angle adjust,Preload,compression and rebound front and rear.

Some of the very first base model 748/916 didnt have the steering head angle adjust.

[Crisis management]

Drew Im not sure about the S4R, but all the Superbike model Ducatis (748,916,996,998,999) have adjustable everything,
Thats Ride height adjust,steering head angle adjust,Preload,compression and rebound front and rear.

Some of the very first base model 748/916 didnt have the steering head angle adjust.

According to mister Falloon (my ducati oracle) the 916 and 748 shared the same running gear until 2000 when some base model 748's were cheapened for usa sales removing the adjustable steering head and utilising a lower spec suspension package.

The later Monsters were based on the ST4 frame and suspension, so not as much adjustment available as the Hypersports, but the later S4R uses the full Ohlins suspension package.

I have to agree with others about Terreblanches styling, I hated the photo's but the more I see in the flesh the more it grows on me. I see his styling as offering a great base for further modifying, he has hinted back to early Ducati styling in lots of places and these components need bringing out.

Fairly typical Ducati isn't it? Create a very popular model and replace it with one lots of people hate; 860 GTS, early Pantah, Paso.

[ipod1098]

Ducati.WSBK champions.Is that good enough?

[imdying]

Ducati.WSBK champions.Is that good enough?By that logic, Yamaha would be better than them, them being MotoGP champions and all. And Honda would be better than Yamaha, having had more MotoGP championships in the last 20 years than everyone else combined. So they're a lowly third if that's the credentials that matter..

[Masterchop]

According to mister Falloon (my ducati oracle) the 916 and 748 shared the same running gear until 2000 when some base model 748's were cheapened for usa sales removing the adjustable steering head and utilising a lower spec suspension package.

Yup your probably quite right,I couldnt remember the exact year they did it,but figured making somthing up was just as good.
Thanks for clarifying that.

[et al]

Sorry to have come in a bit late on this - others with good taste have already said it for me..... but in my opinion the answer to Kneescraper's question is: YES, they are worth it. Although if anyone has to ask the question in the first place then maybe they are a lost cause already.
If I was looking to buy right now I would not say no to owning a 999, next or maybe equal on the list for me would be a 748R.
And re the Monster Suspension - if you want the full Ohlins fruit then you have to go for the S4RS:

[Drew]

And re the Monster Suspension - if you want the full Ohlins fruit then you have to go for the S4RS:

Cheers, I looked for the compresion damping adjuster on the front of the S4R again, and it aint there. I also looked at a 749, and couldn't see it there, but didn't have as good a hunt as the monster, so I'll take the word of those saying they do have it.

[Mr. Peanut]

I like the 749 and the 999 - mainly because other people don't.


Baaaaaaaa.

I like the 999 because it's different. The 1098 feels like the American revival of old design. Crawling back to the old, cause they lost their balls (need to make a profit :bleh:).

I'm glad others don't like it, keeps em cheap for me ;)

[DesmoJohnny]

Cheers, I looked for the compresion damping adjuster on the front of the S4R again, and it aint there.

Drew,
The compression damping adjustment is accessed through the bottom of the fork,up through the axle. :yes:
Cheers

[et al]

I like the 999 because it's different.
Agree with you re the 1098 - it does not quite inspire me enough to want one yet although in time I may get to like it, just as it has taken some time for me to start liking the 999 design which I had the same feeling about when first released. I guess the problem is that the 916 design was so awesome and ground breaking that Ducati were always going to be on a hiding to nothing with whatever they did next. Against the 916 and
the 1098 the 999 now stands out as being unique in its own right.

[Drew]

Drew,
The compression damping adjustment is accessed through the bottom of the fork,up through the axle. :yes:
Cheers

That'd be why i couldn't find it.

I retract my commants, and chew humble pie.

[imdying]

I like the 999 because it's different. The 1098 feels like the American revival of old design. Crawling back to the old, cause they lost their balls (need to make a profit :bleh:).Apparently Ducati were bitten so much over the 999, that even though the 1098 is a 1099cc engine, they called it the 1098 to distance it as much as possible from the 999.

[spudchucka]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-112017824.htm

Looks like a good deal to me.

[desmo dave]

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-112017824.htm

Looks like a good deal to me.

be interesting to see what it sells for.Just had new belts and a service, so there will be nothing to do but ride it.For a short time anyway, untill it needs new rubber

[JimO]

hi dave hows the ship watching going

[McJim]

Saw a 999 up close today. Just change the Top fairing and headlight cluster and it's F'n gorgeous! Looking down on the slim triangular tank to the beutifully crafted top triple clamp - why go with the Baaaaa crowd and say it's ugly. Just needs to remove itself from the Hyosung front light cluster.

[The Pastor]

what do you think about this duke?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-111591357.htm

it has high kms and will drop in value in 300km.

[bimotabob]

what do you think about this duke?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-111591357.htm

it has high kms and will drop in value in 300km.


Is the 70k price drop of chaos on all bikes not just Ducati?
I met a guy recently who got a very cheap 916 at that milage.

People tell me you shouldn't buy one to commute - maybe it's the resale
they are meaning and not the engine costs like I figured.

The guy who owns Hamilton Motorcycle centre has a mean ex race 888.
on display - all good.

[jonbuoy]

If you need to ask the answer would be no.

[McJim]

what do you think about this duke?

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Trade-Me-Motors/Motorbikes/Motorbikes/Sports/auction-111591357.htm

it has high kms and will drop in value in 300km.

I know that bike. Used to belong to Dooly in Hawkes Bay. first owner put most of the kms on it touring round New Zealand - he looked after it and it gat all appropriate services. then Dooly bought it and used it for occasional use - looked after it too.

I nearly bought it in April for $5,500 but I couldn't get the cash together in time. Someone else did. Looks like they're trying to make a fast buck on it.

[flame]

of course Ducati's are worth it.....any thing is worth it if its something that smokes ya tyres. Things are worth paying for if it makes your heart jump around a little.

Go take a four valver for a spin......I bet you'll luv it :yes:

The prices of high spec Duc's are rediculously low these days. Lots of bike for the money. Same with the Aprilia's if they smoke ya barrel.

[07fatboy]

Seems to be a good seller at the moment cant keep the fuckers on the floor long enough here,my local stealer is the#1 dealer in the cuntery at the mo,talking to a young guy in the weekend at the shop whom rocked up on a 07 R1 3 months old checking on his new 1098...he was pretty happy about it all,
stay safe

[slowpoke]

The prices of high spec Duc's are rediculously low these days. Lots of bike for the money.

Yep, Kiwi's have got it fuggin' good when it comes to imported exotica. Jump on any Aussie bike trading site and see what pre-loved Ducati's, MV's etc go for. Given that people still buy them at those prices they must be doing something right.

[Max Preload]

Modern Duke's... no thanks. But I'd have a bevel, if for no other reason than the uniqueness of the engine.

[Max Preload]

Yep, Kiwi's have got it fuggin' good when it comes to imported exotica. Jump on any Aussie bike trading site and see what pre-loved Ducati's, MV's etc go for. Given that people still buy them at those prices they must be doing something right.

Import restrictions. Blame ADR.

[The Pastor]

I know that bike. Used to belong to Dooly in Hawkes Bay. first owner put most of the kms on it touring round New Zealand - he looked after it and it gat all appropriate services. then Dooly bought it and used it for occasional use - looked after it too.

I nearly bought it in April for $5,500 but I couldn't get the cash together in time. Someone else did. Looks like they're trying to make a fast buck on it.
Cool, so its been looked after? thats one of my main concerns.

5.5k was what I'd sorta imagined its worth. Did dooly sell it to this guy? do u know if he (current owner) bought for 5.5 or did dooly give you a kb rate?

if he got it for 5.5k maybe i should say 5k flat :P

How much $$ will I lose when it goes 70k+

[sAsLEX]

There is a write up in the latest TWO mag comparing the 998R and the new 1098.


He keeps going back to the emotive feel the 998R has, plus the fact its only 3Hp down on the bigger 1098.......


One thing they did with the 1098 was increase service intervals and have tried to steer away from the mechanics as riders thing of Ducati's past only time will tell I guess...

[slowpoke]

He keeps going back to the emotive feel the 998R has, plus the fact its only 3Hp down on the bigger 1098.......


I'm in lust with the 1098 and busting myself to score a ride on one.....but the dyno tests don't show the quantum hp leap most duck-lovers were hoping for. Real world conditions might be different (I hope so) but even a comparison with a stock 05 999 doesn't look too impressive.

Here's some comparisons done by a respected Aussie Ducati specialist:
http://www.moto-one.com.au/performance/1098dptermihomo.html

[The Pastor]

Thinking about that duke i linked to, (has 70 000km) would you shy away from it because of the high kms?

[gsxerthou]

I own a 999 and no it won't keep pace with a late model Jap litre bike in a straight line but yes under barkes and through the corners, no problem. Gearing is way to tall and only sound any good with the full Termignoni exhaust. Ducati race ECU is also required to get anything close to decent performance. Be prepared to pay huge dollors for these, No change out of 4 grand and yes you will still require a good power commander.
Clutch rattle is hard to get used to if your a jap bike rider.

Yes the Ducati may not be a reliable as a Jap bike, but you know what, even sitting on the side of the road they look classy as all hell. And whats more the bike has put fun back into riding for me, will never ride another Jap Bike.

[sAsLEX]

I'm in lust with the 1098 and busting myself to score a ride on one.....but the dyno tests don't show the quantum hp leap most duck-lovers were hoping for. Real world conditions might be different (I hope so) but even a comparison with a stock 05 999 doesn't look too impressive.

Here's some comparisons done by a respected Aussie Ducati specialist:
http://www.moto-one.com.au/performance/1098dptermihomo.html

998R is three horse down on a standard 1098, the 1098R is going to be special at a guess.

[et al]

.. the 1098R is going to be special at a guess.
Yes - I suspect the current 1098 is an "Intro" model with expectations of higher performance to come I am sure. The homologation 1098R/"1200" model when it arrives is going to be something else again and if Ducati stick with their model development path like they have done in the past then some good stuff from the race model is bound to be included on later base models.