I have a dilemma (but a nice one to have). Two bikes below, same price so purely a comparison on spec. Both will have a fresh belt service and are for sale at a dealer
1098S (2007)
9k miles
Rossi rep paint job (looks really good)
Full 70mm Termis
Few nice extras
12 month Ducati warranty
999R (2003)
4k miles
Full 57mn termis
3 month third party warranty
Here’s the problem… The R is an R, and I had initially wanted an R as I wanted something more interesting, but the 1098S has the ohlins, monoblocs, is faster, lighter etc etc. The 1098S in question is “something more interesting” because of the paint and extras, but it’s still a relatively common bike underneath compared to the R (no offence to any owners, but you know what I mean…)
The R should hold its value better, and is cheaper to insure, but more to look after so the cost really doesn’t come into it too much
The 1098S is the better bike on paper, but the 999R is a better bike for a Ducatisti?
Although, the 2003 999R is not as “good” as the later one from what I can see (no magnesium engine covers, less power, grey frame vs but has carbon tail piece.
Any thoughts before I stick my hard earned down?