You''ll find previous threads on this very subject if you search them out. I went from an '03 R6 to an '02 748R and it was a mistake. I should have bought an "S" which, for me, would have made a much better road bike. I found the R agricultural and after all, its a race bike with mirrors. On the other hand, I'm sure others will have an opposite view. One thing though, when I first set eyes on the R, I thought it was the most beautiful bike I'd ever seen and that hasn't changed!
R's are wonderful devices but, do require committment and they're not particularly user-friendly. Normal 748's are hardly renowned for being easy to live with for many people - an R is the same but, more again imo. Mind you, if you're in the mood, the roads are good, there's little traffic etc then they are motorycling nirvana.
Is it worth £1500 extra? Yes imo. You get all the bling, the exclusivity and a lot of extra performance. They are special bits of kit.
Guess it depends on what you think you will get out of the bike. I have a 748s and the performance and handling are waaaaay beyond my abilities. Would I benefit from the improvements in the 748R? Probably not. Would I notice another £1,500 in my pocket? Most definately!
The 748R is as sexy as hell though. But I can't say I am disappointed by the looks of the 748s either!
got a 748r as my first bike so carnt comment on the s version , but the r is a fine pice of machinary. It doen't like been below 3000 - 3500rpm but once its clears that rev area my god does it go and the handeling is something elce . Im very pleased i got the R version and it brings a great smile everytime i see it hope this helps a little Jamie