The plan come next spring is to upgrade from my '99 750ss to something else. I had always thought that I'd probably get a 900ss ie, basically because I really like the SS range and have no burning desire to get a Superbike.
However, after reading through the ST zealot enthusiasm here (and the fact that a good ST2 seems to be had for around £3k) I'm considering changing my mind.
Couple of questions:
- Has anyone ridden an SS (an ie mind) and an ST to compare? Specifically I'm interested in the width of the bike. I commute to work every day. The 750ss is really quite narrow and gets me through some pretty small gaps. I always assumed that the ST was a wider proposition and thus perhaps not so good for commuting.
- The ST2 has the 2 valve engine. Does it have a wet or dry clutch?
- I'm going to have to guess that the ST range has a bit more comfort factor than the SS. Although I've got used to the rock solid rear suspension and wrist crippling weight on the SS by now.
- Any ST and Multistrada comparisons? I realise the MS is going to be more expensive than a 2000-2001 SS.
Yep, I've ridden both a 900SSie (borrowed) and an ST2 (which I own).
The width? Well the ST is probably marginally wider then an SS, but not by much. Being a V twin enables the ST to still be a lot slimmer than an in-line 4. The widest bits are the mirrors, so if they'll go through a gap the rest of the bike will. The ST riding position is better for threading through traffic 'cos you're more upright, get a better view forward without pulling your head back all the while, there is much less weight on your wrists and the bars are wider so steering is easier.
The ST2 has a dry clutch
In terms of performance the ST2 is about the same as a 900SSie. The ST is about 20Kg heavier, mostly because it's water cooled and has the extra weight of the rad, pipes and coolant and the bike itself is probably just a touch heavier but it carries the weight well and you don't really feel that the ST is too lardy. To offset the extra weight the ST has a 944cc engine with just a bit more power and torque, again the ST is fuel injected like the ie.
I owned a 900ssie which I had to part with due to lower back and neck pain when riding it for more than an hour. This was replaced by an ST2 which I found so much easier to ride and was just as quick in the twisties but could also do 400 + mile days too.
Ill echo what Jools has said, beings weve swopped bikes some times on a ride out. The ST is more refined and comfortable than the SS and does not want for anything in terms of performance so long as you keep it in the realms of safe road riding even on track its a good bike to have on some curcuits. It doesnt feel quite so "brutal" or directed as the SS does but I suppose thats more due to set up . When I was riding the ST I did'nt want to pull over, I felt I could ride all day long. If you take a pillion, the ST would be the way to go. 4D
Flipping amazing bike.. am very tired now and will write another message in the morning.. have just ridden back home 250 miles... just need to learn how to ride it properly now! It is bigger and heavier than the Yamaha and I need to be careful.....
If it hasn't been mentioned yet have a look at the Ducati ST FAQ doc (located at www.bike-gizmos.com) 80 odd pages of useful info to keep you busy. cheers