| I have ridden both a 998R and a 998s in standard form. The 998s is supposed to have the pretty much the same motor as the 996r and no word of a lie it felt gutless compared to the 998r. If there was only 3 BHP difference between them as the specs say then they are flipping big horses.
The 998r has a bit more carbon/different seat unit.
The 996r was the last of line as it were to win the WSB championship so in some peoples eyes that makes it more desirable. The 998r was the highest spec bike in the line, the 998FE (final edition) was basically a 998s with Ohlins forks.
As a ride I doubt that you would be disappointed with either but if it was me looking at a 996r I would want a test ride just to make sure it didn't disappoint on the "go" front. On my experience so far I would go with the 998r.
At the end of last years riding season there was about 2k difference in the asking price on average between a 996r and a 998r.
yer pays yer money and makes yer choice.
Ray. |